[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 173 (Thursday, November 21, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S6718]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 REMEMBERING HERBERT ``BERTIE'' BOWMAN

  Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the following 
statement be printed in the Record.
  There being no objection, the material was ordered to be printed in 
the Record, as follows:

                 In Honor of Herbert ``Bertie'' Bowman

       Whereas, Bertie H. Bowman's remarkable life journey is an 
     embodiment of the American dream, having transcended humble 
     beginnings as the son of South Carolina sharecroppers to 
     become the longest-serving African American congressional 
     aide in history with 62 years of congressional service;
       Whereas, in 1944, as a determined 13-year-old, Bertie 
     Bowman arrived at the steps of the U.S. Capitol and embarked 
     on a journey of resilience and unwavering dedication;
       Whereas, Bertie Bowman's early days were marked by 
     hardship, where he plowed fields barefoot and wore shoes only 
     in winter, growing up with limited resources but boundless 
     dreams;
       Whereas, the pivotal moment when Senator Burnet R. Maybank 
     extended a helping hand to Bertie, offering him a job 
     sweeping the Capitol steps, ignited a path of opportunity 
     that would define his extraordinary life;
       Whereas, Bertie's tireless work ethic and determined spirit 
     propelled him from sweeping the Capitol steps to serving 57 
     years at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, a testament 
     to his unwavering commitment to self-improvement and public 
     service;
       Whereas, the enduring friendship and mentorship shared 
     between Bertie Bowman and Bill Clinton during their time 
     working in the Capitol showcased the power of camaraderie 
     that transcends age and race;
       Whereas, Bertie Bowman's unique ability to find common 
     ground and focus on the positive contributions of 
     individuals, even those with differing views, demonstrated 
     his commitment to civility and unity;
       Whereas, Bertie's legacy is a testament to the belief that 
     hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of opportunity can 
     lead to extraordinary achievements, inspiring countless 
     individuals to strive for greatness;
       Whereas, in 2019, the U.S. Senate Federal Credit Union 
     honored Bertie Bowman--who served on the Credit Union Board 
     for 46 years including two terms as chairman--by naming their 
     headquarters building after him, recognizing his enduring 
     impact on the Senate and the importance of civility in public 
     service;
       Whereas, Bertie H. Bowman's life story serves as a timeless 
     reminder of the boundless possibilities that await those who 
     persevere, a testament to the American spirit and the values 
     of hard work, friendship, and civility that define our 
     nation;
       Therefore, be it resolved, that we pay tribute to the 
     enduring legacy of Bertie H. Bowman, his remarkable journey, 
     and his indomitable spirit that continues to inspire us all 
     by remembering his former office suite, Senate Dirksen 415.

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