Jay Rockefeller: “I stand today to honor my dear friend and colleague, Senator Robert C. Byrd. Few of us can truly hold claim to the title…”

“I stand today to honor my dear friend and colleague, Senator Robert C. Byrd. Few of us can truly hold claim to the title of living legend--but Robert C. Byrd can. This afternoon he cast his 18,000th vote. A remarkable record that reflects his years of dedicated, passionate and heartfelt service to the people of West Virginia and the Republic he so loves. Eighteen thousand is an impressive number. But what is more impressive is the change that those votes had on America. He voted to strengthen Social Security for all Americans. He voted to turn the dream of college education into a reality for all students. He voted to ensure that those who put in an honest day's work receive an honest day's wage. He voted to protect the health and safety of coal miners. And, he voted to ensure that those who serve in uniform would get the benefits they deserve. Quite frankly, his voting record, and its impact on the fabric of our country, is immeasurable. Along the way, his votes and his voice became the conscience of the Senate. Reminding us all that change is never easy, and that following the rules matters. That we can disagree with each other, even an administration, but we can ill afford to be disagreeable with each other. It is impossible to picture the history of the last 50 years without thinking of Robert C. Byrd's impact and influence on all of our lives. I am incredibly honored to serve every day with my dear friend and colleague--he is an inspiration to us all.”