[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 26 (Thursday, February 29, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S1452]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE BERQUISTS FOR CELEBRATING THEIR 60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

  Mr. ASHCROFT. Mr. President, these are trying times for the family in 
America. Unfortunately, too many broken homes have become part of our 
national culture. It is tragic that nearly half of all couples married 
today will see their union dissolve into divorce. The effects of 
divorce on families and particularly the children of broken families 
are devastating. In such an era, I believe it is both instructive and 
important to honor those who have taken the commitment of ``til death 
us do part'' seriously and have successfully demonstrated the timeless 
principles of love, honor, and fidelity, to build a strong family. 
These qualities make our country strong.
  For these important reasons, I rise today to honor the Reverend and 
Mrs. Ernie Berquist of Springfield, MO, who on February 28 celebrated 
their 60th wedding anniversary. My wife, Janet, and I look forward to 
the day we can celebrate a similar milestone. The Berquists commitment 
to the principles and values of their marriage deserves to be saluted 
and recognized. I wish them and their family all the best as they 
celebrate this substantial marker on their journey together.

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