[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 170 (Friday, November 21, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2365]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                 SENATOR ROBERT C. BYRD'S 86TH BIRTHDAY

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                        HON. NICK J. RAHALL, II

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 20, 2003

  Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, recently U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd, D-
W.Va., received the prestigious ``Freedom from Fear'' Medal from the 
Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute in Hyde Park, N.Y.
  Shakespeare warned us, ``men close their doors against a setting 
sun.'' But, in the extraordinary moments of human endeavor, when light 
of liberty dares to fade, often only a single soul stands to embrace 
its care--a soul who has stood vigil through the night armed with 
reason, buoyed by history and strengthened by vision. This award and 
Senator Byrd's honor reflect his place in human history.
  Today marks the 86th Birthday of West Virginia's finest. Senator 
Robert C. Byrd's personal life and his public service have consistently 
embraced the same principles: diligent work, constant improvement, 
unwavering commitment, unswerving honesty, and an overarching sense of 
history.
  In his 86 years Senator Byrd has been a legislative craftsman, 
parliamentarian extraordinaire, skillful architect, master builder, 
visionary, dreamer, and doer. From teacher, scholar, mentor, leader, 
author, historian, and diplomat, Senator Byrd has borne many mantles 
throughout the years. But the one of which he is most proud, and 
perhaps cherishes the most, is that of being a West Virginian.
  He has been a mentor to me, a pillar of strength for West Virginia, 
and a voice of reason for the Nation. After 86 years and five decades 
of service in Congress, his work is not yet done. The West Virginian of 
the Past Century is quickly forging a sterling legacy in the new one. 
And, as before, he is leading the way.

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