Paul Coverdell: “it is with a deep sense of honor that I rise today to introduce legislation awarding former President and Mrs. Ronald…”

“it is with a deep sense of honor that I rise today to introduce legislation awarding former President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan the Congressional Gold Medal. Very few Americans have had as profound an impact upon this Nation and the world as this remarkable couple have. In his eight years in office, President Reagan restored American's sense of pride and set us squarely on the course of prosperity we still enjoy today. He was instrumental in the collapse of the Soviet Empire that brought an end to the Cold War. Who could forget his ringing challenge from Berlin's Bradenburg Gate, ``Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this Wall!'' By 1989, to the amazement of the world, Germany was unified, and the Wall became a memory. Reagan's character, wit, and eloquence as the ``Great Communicator'' brought honor to the Office of the President and endeared him to us all. As First Lady, Nancy Reagan's contributions were equally significant in their own right. She not only bestowed elegance and grace upon the White House, but she also brought critical leadership to righting the scourge of illegal drugs. Tirelessly encouraging our Nation's youth to ``Just Say No,'' Mrs. Reagan was instrumental in successfully reducing the rate of illegal drug use among our children. The Reagans have continued to inspire us even after their years in the White House. President and Nancy Reagan have confronted his Alzheimer's disease with the same dignity and bravery they displayed in office.”