David Thomas: “I rise today to join in the tribute to Senator Bob Dole. Certainly, his accomplishments extend over many areas, but I…”

“I rise today to join in the tribute to Senator Bob Dole. Certainly, his accomplishments extend over many areas, but I want to limit my remarks specifically to health care. His record is one that truly demonstrates compassion, dedication and selflessness. This is not a man who simply talks about quality health care. He knows the importance of it firsthand. Of course, we all know the story, Bob Dole's valiant service in World War II. He spent 4 agonizing years in a hospital bed. It was this experience that led to his commitment to give each and every American the security of knowing health care is there today and will be there tomorrow. Proof of such dedication is reflected, not just in the way he votes on major issues, but also in smaller efforts like helping to keep a 12-bed hospital in rural Kansas open, or creating employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. These are little things that do not always receive a lot of fanfare, but over the course of 35 years, they build a solid legislative record.”