Paul Coverdell: “tonight, we pass and clear for the President's signature a fitting tribute for a pair of American heroes, the…”

“tonight, we pass and clear for the President's signature a fitting tribute for a pair of American heroes, the Congressional Gold Medal. I am privileged and deeply honored to have been joined and supported by so many of my colleagues and others in this effort. In his first inaugural address, President Reagan encouraged a nation by stating, ``Let us begin an era of national renewal. Let us renew our determination, our courage, and our strength. And let us renew our faith and our hope.'' Former President Ronald Reagan spoke these words almost two decades ago at his first inauguration ceremony, inspiring a generation. During his 8 years as President of the United States, Ronald Reagan successfully reshaped America's hope and sparked a national renewal, marked by unprecedented global peace, economic growth, military superiority, and the spread of freedom and liberty. Serving as the leader of the world's greatest superpower, President Reagan preferred to see himself as a simple citizen who had been called upon to aid the Nation he so loved. He believed fervently in the American dream and wanted the American people to realize it fully. Through every historic fight and landmark decision, the ever-gracious First Lady, Nancy, was by President Reagan's side.”