On the recordJanuary 5, 2011
it is a great honor to join in recognizing and celebrating my colleague, the senior Senator from Maryland. Senator Barbara Mikulski became the longest serving woman Senator in our Nation's history today when she completed the oath to begin her fifth term in the Senate. Indeed, this is not the first time Senator Mikulski's name will be etched in history for her groundbreaking service: she was the first woman elected to statewide office in Maryland and the first female Democrat to serve in both Chambers of Congress. During her 24 years in the Senate, she has won the admiration of her colleagues for her resolve, hard work and dedication to her constituents. It is an honor to call Senator Mikulski a friend. As representatives of neighboring States, we have often had the opportunity to work together on issues of regional importance. I can never thank her enough for her commitment to NASA-Wallops, one of many examples in this regard. Today marks a special milestone in the Senate's history. I join my colleagues in commending Senator Mikulski, not only for her enormous service to this body and to our country but as someone who has been a tireless advocate for her home State of Maryland.
