Thomas Daschle: “there is much to celebrate on a day like this, as the distinguished Senator from Virginia has just articulated so…”

“there is much to celebrate on a day like this, as the distinguished Senator from Virginia has just articulated so eloquently, to celebrate the fact that there are young men and women willing to commit their lives for the security interests of this country, whatever they may be. Young Scott O'Grady understood that when he took on the responsibilities of flying an F-16. He understood that when he climbed into his fighter plane on that day a week ago, completely aware of the enemy fire that he could be subjected to as he flew over those dangerous areas. He understood that as he ejected from his crippled plane, and he understood that during the dangerous period of time that he evaded those who were seeking to capture him, all the time wondering whether or not he would found. There are men and women like him in the military in every branch of service who are willing to commit themselves, willing to commit their lives to the mission that is put before them in the interest of patriotism, in the interest of the defense and strength of this country. So today we celebrate that heroism, that willingness to put patriotism ahead of self-interest. And certainly we have seen a clear demonstration of that in the heroic actions of Capt. Scott O'Grady. Patriotism and the life of a hero is something we can celebrate with great pride today as we consider the fact that Scott O'Grady is safely back with us.”