[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 66 (Monday, April 24, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S5564]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                THE DEATH OF FORMER SENATOR JOHN STENNIS

  Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, we in the Senate were shocked to hear 
the news of the passing of a cherished friend and a former colleague: 
former Senator John Stennis from Mississippi.
  Senator Stennis served in this Senate Chamber for 40 years--from the 
time of his election to the Senate in 1947, through his retirement in 
1989. During that time, he dedicated himself to giving our Nation the 
gift of wisdom and leadership.
  Senator Stennis was greatly admired by all who had the honor to serve 
with him. As chairman of the Armed Services Committee, he served with 
several Presidents; during that time he led the committee through the 
darkest days of the Vietnam war. Although he often saw his position on 
that war opposed by some of his fellow Democrats, he always did what he 
believed to be correct and in the best interest of our Nation.
  For many years, Senator Stennis and I were neighbors in the Russell 
Building. I recall with great fondness the kindness and good cheer he 
showed to me and my office staff on the many occasions he stopped in to 
say hello. Senator Stennis completed his Senate career by serving with 
great distinction as President pro tempore of the Senate.
  I had the honor of serving with Senator John Stennis for almost my 
entire Senate career. Throughout the years, I came to appreciate and 
respect his qualities of integrity, ability, and dedication.
  Mr. President, John C. Stennis was a great American. He was a 
dedicated Senator who proudly represented the people of Mississippi 
with great distinction. We have lost a colleague, we have lost a 
leader; but most of all, we have lost a friend.

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