Rick Lazio: “we are here this morning to honor Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, who will soon be concluding a distinguished career of…”

“we are here this morning to honor Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, who will soon be concluding a distinguished career of public service. Senator Moynihan's curriculum vitae extends over 44 pages. As one reads, one can not but be astounded that a single person could achieve so much, in so many areas. During World War II, Daniel Patrick Moynihan left college after one year to serve his country as a Naval officer. Returning to the United States after the war, he went on to become the sole person to ever serve 4 successive administrations at the Cabinet or Sub-Cabinet level. He served Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon and Ford in such roles as Cabinet Assistant Secretary, Counselor to the President, Assistant to the President, Ambassador and President of the U.N. Security Council. In 1977 he was elected to the United States Senate, a post that he has held until today. Throughout the course of his career, Senator Moynihan has been the recipient of countless honors, ranging from honorary degrees from universities throughout the world, to awards from a variety of groups far too numerous to mention. Yet, as outstanding as his record of achievement has been, what has always impressed me is the independence of mind that has consistently characterized Daniel Patrick Moynihan's views, statements and policy positions.”