[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 91 (Wednesday, June 19, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S6508]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE DASCHLES CELEBRATING THEIR 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

  Mr. REID. Mr. President, it is my distinct pleasure to rise today to 
honor Sebastian and Elizabeth Daschle, who celebrated their 50th 
wedding anniversary on January 16, 1996. Their lives and strong 
commitment to one another serve as an example to the entire Nation.
  Betty Meiers and Sebastian ``Dash'' Daschle were married on a mild 
winter day in Roscoe SD. Two days later, they were hit by the worst 
blizzard of the year. Together the Daschles weathered the storm and 
have continued to stand beside one another through 50 years of 
surprises and joys.
  The Daschles devotion to one another began early, with Betty waiting 
for her sweetheart to return home from World War II so they could be 
married. Since fabric was scarce at the time, Betty's wedding dress and 
the flower girl's dress was made out of a parachute brought home from 
the war. While the fabric was unconventional, it was plentiful and 
provided enough material for Betty's dress to have a long, elegant 
train. Betty and Dash took their vows on the day of Betty's parents 
25th anniversary and, for 30 years, the two couples jointly celebrated 
their happiness. Clearly, commitment and lasting love run in the 
family.
  Following the wedding, the young couple moved to Aberdeen, SD, to 
make their home. After an unsuccessful search for a place to live, they 
had to install plumbing on the top floor of a house to create a 
makeshift apartment. Betty's father and brother built the Daschles' 
first house in 1948. In 1952, they built a bigger home on the same lot 
and have happily lived there ever since.
  Through the years, Dash worked as a bookkeeper for Nelson Auto 
Electric, and eventually worked his way to become a part-owner of the 
business. The Daschles are proud parents of four boys--including my 
friend and colleague, the distinguished minority leader Senator Tom 
Daschle. The Daschles delight each day in the joy of their 
grandchildren.
  For the Daschles, a promise made was a promise kept. Their dedication 
to their vows and commitment to strong family ties serve as a model for 
families across America.
  I congratulate the Daschles on this achievement, and wish them 
continued happiness in their lives together.

                          ____________________