Thomas Daschle: “last Thursday our colleague, Senator John Glenn, announced he will be retiring from the Senate at the end of his current…”

“last Thursday our colleague, Senator John Glenn, announced he will be retiring from the Senate at the end of his current term in 1998. While I am saddened by his decision, I certainly understand it, and I want to take a few moments to pay tribute to a man who has given a lifetime of service to his country. Soldier, astronaut, hero, businessman, statesman, nuts-and-bolts reformer. All of these words accurately describe the long, distinguished career of John Glenn. Courage, tenacity, modesty, authenticity, the 'Right Stuff.' These words describe the character of John Glenn, the ingredients that have made this great career so memorable. When he retires on the cusp of the 21st century, John Glenn will likely be remembered as one of the great American heroes of the 20th century, both for his heroism in battle and for conquering the peaceful but uncharted frontiers of space. But he should also be remembered as a Senator who helped prepare his government to enter the 21st century as a modern, efficient force for good in people's lives.”