[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 74 (Wednesday, June 10, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S6114]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 REMEMBERING THE LIFE AND COMMITMENT OF ROBERT F. KENNEDY ON THE 30TH 
                        ANNIVERSARY OF HIS DEATH

   Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the memory 
of one of our Nation's most compassionate and visionary leaders, Robert 
F. Kennedy, who was assassinated 30 years ago. He served our nation as 
Attorney General and United States Senator, but his impact on our 
nation's history cannot be measured by mere titles or the offices he 
held.
  Although his life was cut short thirty years ago, his legacy will 
live on forever. Many of today's leaders were inspired by Bobby 
Kennedy--he inspired me to become involved in politics more than three 
decades ago. I had the privilege to meet Bobby Kennedy in the summer of 
1965 at Stetson University. Shaking his hand forever changed my life. 
Now today in the Senate my desk is very close to his old desk on the 
Senate floor--close enough to always remind me of why I first got 
involved in politics.
  Bobby Kennedy's philosophy was truly admirable. Bobby Kennedy was 
committed to equal opportunity for all. He displayed ceaseless devotion 
to the impoverished members of the American community, and pushed for 
decent wages and adequate healthcare for all. He knew the importance of 
protecting the well-being of our youth, and he fought to improve their 
education. Throughout his life, he worked toward a more just society.
  His tragic death shocked and saddened the hearts of America. I was 
recovering from my injuries from Vietnam in Walter Reed Hospital the 
day I heard of his tragic death. I am sure many others have a similarly 
clear recollection of that day. We had lost a committed, warmhearted 
leader who we would never forget or replace.
  Mr. President, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in 
remembering this admirable and courageous leader, who forever changed 
the history of this nation. Thirty years later, his memory and legacy 
live on. We continue to remember Robert F. Kennedy for his passion, 
courage and devotion, and will always do so.

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