Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I rise to pay tribute to an extraordinary Senator--Robert Byrd of West Virginia. Chairman Byrd was the longest serving Senator in the history of this country. He served with extraordinary distinction not only on behalf of the people of West Virginia but on behalf of all of us. The great lesson of his life is that through constant self- improvement, through constant education, not only can one rise to great heights but one can also contribute to one's country and community. Senator Byrd was born in very humble circumstances. At his birth, I do not think anyone would have predicted he would become the longest serving Senator in the history of the United States. In fact, tragically, within a year of his birth, his mother passed away, and he went to live with his father's sister. But in those difficult circumstances in West Virginia, he rose above it through tenacious effort, through hard work. Through his life's path, he had an extraordinary companion, the love of his life--Erma. Together they not only had a family but they built a life of service to others. I know how dear his dear Erma was to Senator Byrd. Their children, Mona, Marjorie, their sons-in-law, their grandchildren, and their great-grandchildren all at this moment are reflecting on the wonderful person Robert Byrd was, how much he meant to them, and also I hope recognizing how much he meant to all of us.…”