Gabrielle Giffords formally resigned her congressional seat in a moving and emotional scene on the House floor Wednesday morning.

Her good friend, Florida Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, read the resignation letter for her through tears. It said in part:

"I don’t remember much from that terrible day, but I have never forgotten my constituents, my colleagues, or the millions of Americans with whom I share great hopes for this nation. To all of them: Thank you for your prayers, your cards, your well-wishes and your support. And even as I have worked to regain my speech, thank you for your faith in my ability to be your voice."

Noted crier House Speaker John Boehner teared-up as he accepted the letter and hugged Giffords.

Here it is in its entirety:

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