[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 16]
[Senate]
[Page 21976]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 CONGRATULATIONS ON 50 YEARS OF SERVICE

  Mr. DASCHLE. Mr. President, today I would like to congratulate 
Chapter 0336 of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, 
NARFE, on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.
  Fifty years ago, Chapter 0336 was formed by 17 NARFE members in Rapid 
City, SD. Today, the chapter's membership has grown to include over 200 
persons. As many of my colleagues know, NARFE has been instrumental in 
protecting the rights of retired Federal and civilian employees.
  The importance of Federal employees is well illustrated by the 
overwhelming majority of those in the Chamber today. Federal and 
civilian employment is an essential component of governmental 
efficiency. These employees are the backbone of our great country, and 
those who devote their lives to public service deserve to know that 
they will retire with dignity.
  By acting as an advocate for these retirees, NARFE not only ensures 
that retirees receive the benefits that were promised to them but also 
aims to improve future conditions for current Federal and civilian 
employees. The years of experience on Capitol Hill and in Federal 
agencies have made NARFE a name respected by Members of Congress and a 
key player in the Federal community.
  Throughout my congressional career, NARFE offices across my State 
have contacted me on numerous occasions urging me to support 
legislation beneficial to those who helped strengthen our country over 
the past decades. Its members have always been forthright in suggesting 
legislative remedies for their problems--I appreciate that.
  Again, I wish to extend my congratulations to all involved in making 
this momentous occasion possible, and I look forward to working closely 
with Chapter 0336 and other NARFE offices well into the future.

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