[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 4 (Friday, January 9, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E54]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  ON THE OCCASION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF SENATOR ROBERT C. BYRD'S 
                       SERVICE IN THE U.S. SENATE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. NICK J. RAHALL II

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 9, 2009

  Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, this week, in this Capitol, we are 
witnessing a convergence of a number of events that will long stand out 
in our Nation's collective memories. We are on the front edge of a new 
session of Congress, preparing for a landmark moment in the history of 
America's presidency. And, at the same time, we are celebrating a major 
milestone for one of this Nation's most devoted and accomplished public 
servants--U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd.
  It was 50 years ago, that Senator Byrd, for the first time, took the 
oath of office to serve in the United States Senate--an oath he has now 
taken a record-setting nine times.
  Yesterday, as numerous Members of the House and Senate raised their 
own hands and took their own very first oaths, I could not help but 
think about what it must have been like for our Senior Senator from 
West Virginia to watch these new ranks at the start of their own 
Congressional careers.
  I was reminded of my first day of service in this body. I recall 
being humbled by the responsibility that had been placed in my hands 
and awed by the auspicious ceremony and the grandeur of this ornate 
Chamber.
  On that first day, I was relieved at the knowledge that I was blessed 
with the wisdom, the support, and the mentorship of Robert C. Byrd. 
Throughout my career here, he has been a constant source of 
encouragement and sage advice.
  Today, as we embark upon this new session cognizant of the tremendous 
challenges before us--a struggling economy, two wars, a strapped 
Federal budget, and growing public need--we can breathe easier knowing 
that we are all blessed to have the continuing service of Robert C. 
Byrd to steer us through the rocky shoals.
  Congratulations to Senator Byrd--our trailblazer, our Leader, our Big 
Daddy. May he continue to serve the people of West Virginia and the 
entire Nation for many years to come.

                          ____________________