Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-07-16

RECOGNIZING JOHN WATHAN ON HIS INDUCTION INTO ROYALS HALL OF FAME

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Context

On 2026-07-16, Representative Mark Alford (R-MO-4) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING JOHN WATHAN ON HIS INDUCTION INTO ROYALS HALL OF FAME" in the House.

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RECOGNIZING JOHN WATHAN ON HIS INDUCTION INTO ROYALS HALL OF FAME

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4616-H4617] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING JOHN WATHAN ON HIS INDUCTION INTO ROYALS HALL OF FAME (Mr. ALFORD asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. ALFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true Kansas City legend, John Wathan, whose lifelong dedication to the Kansas City Royals has now earned him a well-deserved place in the Royals Hall of Fame. For more than five decades in baseball, and an incredible 47 years with one organization, John Wathan has done it all: catcher, first baseman, outfielder, manager, coach, broadcaster, [[Page H4617]] and scout. You name it, he has done it. His impact on the game and on Kansas City is simply unmatched. He was there for some of the most defining moments in Royals history, including the club's first World Series in 1985. Long after his playing days, he continued to shape generations of players and strengthen the organization he proudly called home. They called him The Duke, but what truly set John Wathan apart was not just his talent. It was his loyalty, his love, and his humility. The city of Kansas City is 100 percent behind him. This honor is more than overdue. It is a testament to a lifelong commitment to the game, to the city, and to our community. Mr. Speaker, legends aren't just defined by what they achieve but how they are serving others. John Wathan's legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come. We are so proud to congratulate The Duke and his family on this incredible honor. ____________________

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RECOGNIZING JOHN WATHAN ON HIS INDUCTION INTO ROYALS HALL OF FAME Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4616-H4617] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING JOHN WATHAN ON HIS INDUCTION INTO ROYALS HALL OF FAME (Mr. ALFORD asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. ALFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true Kansas City legend, John Wathan, whose lifelong dedication to the Kansas City Royals has now earned him a well-deserved place in the Royals Hall of Fame. For more than five decades in baseball, and an incredible 47 years with one organization, John Wathan has done it all: catcher, first baseman, outfielder, manager, coach, broadcaster, [[Page H4617]] and scout. You name it, he has done it. His impact on the game and on Kansas City is simply unmatched. He was there for some of the most defining moments in Royals history, including the club's first World Series in 1985. Long after his playing days, he continued to shape generations of players and strengthen the organization he proudly called home. They called him The Duke, but what truly set John Wathan apart was not just his talent. It was his loyalty, his love, and his humility. The city of Kansas City is 100 percent behind him. This honor is more than overdue. It is a testament to a lifelong commitment to the game, to the city, and to our community. Mr. Speaker, legends aren't just defined by what they achieve but how they are serving others. John Wathan's legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come. We are so proud to congratulate The Duke and his family on this incredible honor. ____________________