[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 18]
[Senate]
[Pages 24786-24798]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                          TRIBUTES TO SENATORS


                             Elizabeth Dole

  Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, one of the great privileges of 
my career has been the time I have spent working alongside Senator Bob 
Dole and his wife, Senator Elizabeth Dole. I feel a special kinship to 
the Doles. Not only are they both dear friends to Elaine and me, but in 
my position as Republican Leader I often think back on Bob's superb 
stewardship of the office. Bob Dole was in many ways a model and a 
mentor to me. I was humbled and honored to assume a role that he filled 
for so long with such dignity and skill. And today I am honored to 
submit for the Record a letter of tribute from my old friend to his 
remarkable wife at the conclusion of her Senate career. Elizabeth Dole 
has graced this chamber in the same way that she has graced every other 
institution of which she has been a part in a long and distinguished 
career of public service. We will miss Senator Dole's kindness, her 
warmth, and her unyielding belief in the greatness of her country. 
Senator Dole is one of the great public servants of our day. It is my 
great pleasure to ask that this letter from one dear friend to another 
be printed in the Record.
  The letter follows.

                                                December 12, 2008.
       Dear Mitch: I wish I could be a Senator again just long 
     enough to speak of Senator Elizabeth Dole's accomplishments 
     which have spanned a period of nearly a half century.
       Elizabeth correctly chose to focus her farewell remarks on 
     those who helped and counseled her along the way. She spoke 
     about those who were most important in her life's journey 
     such as her mother, her father, her teachers, co-workers, and 
     her dear brother, John, who passed away on April 8, 2008. 
     John was her mentor, her confidant, and a proud naval officer 
     in World War II. Elizabeth's speech was all about others 
     rather than herself, which, in itself, says a lot about 
     Elizabeth as a caring human being.
       So in an indirect way, I want to share her many areas of 
     service with all those thinking about their future and the 
     path they will follow. Believe me when I say they will not 
     find a better example than the Senator Dole from North 
     Carolina. Senator Dole, in many respects, was a pioneer for 
     American women, as many of her early opportunities came 
     before women were in the forefront of public or private 
     sectors of meaningful service activity.
       Elizabeth has never stopped looking for ways to make a 
     difference. It would be impossible to determine the number of 
     good people in North Carolina and across America that 
     Elizabeth's efforts have had an impact upon, myself included. 
     She assisted me three times in campaigning full-time for the 
     presidency, taking a one year leave of absence from the Red 
     Cross, but more importantly were the countless times she 
     assisted me personally because of my disabilities.
       Let me recount some of the highlights of Senator Dole's 
     career so that those who may be looking for a role model may 
     fully understand the differences she has made for others, 
     irregardless of party, race, religion or status.

  Public Service Career and Selected Accomplishments of Elizabeth Dole

      Early 1960's: Summer jobs during graduate school
       Office of Senator B. Everett Jordan (D-NC)
       United Nations Guide
       United Nations Intern Program
     1966-1967: Assistant at the U.S. Department of Health, 
         Education and Welfare
       After completing her Master of Arts in Teaching and her 
     graduation from Harvard Law School, Elizabeth Hanford was 
     hired by the U.S. Department of Health, Education and 
     Welfare. Her assignments there included planning the first-
     ever United States government sponsored conference on 
     education of the deaf. This conference, which spawned a 
     career-long dedication to the rights of the disabled, was 
     held in Colorado Springs in 1967. During this time, she took 
     cases for indigents, those who could not afford an attorney.
     1967-1968: Deputy Assistant for Legislative Affairs, White 
         House Office of Consumer Affairs
       In April 1968, Elizabeth Hanford joined the Lyndon Johnson 
     Administration at the White House Office of Consumer Affairs, 
     working for Betty Furness. As Deputy Assistant for 
     Legislative Affairs, she traveled frequently to Capitol Hill 
     to advocate for policies protecting American consumers.
     1969-1973: Deputy Director, President's Committee on Consumer 
         Interests
       Upon taking office in January 1969, President Richard Nixon 
     renamed the White House Office of Consumer Affairs the 
     ``President's Committee on Consumer Interests.'' Virginia 
     Knauer was appointed Special Assistant to the President for 
     Consumer Affairs and promoted Elizabeth Hanford to serve as 
     her deputy. Hanford would serve with Knauer for five years as 
     a tireless advocate for American consumers, developing 
     consumer education curriculum for America's schools, reaching 
     voluntary agreements with industry to undertake nutritional 
     labeling and unit pricing, and helping to create the Consumer 
     Information Center in Pueblo, Colorado. They were guided by 
     the philosophy that for consumers to make wise decisions, 
     they must have access to all relevant information.
     1973-1979: Commissioner, United States Federal Trade 
         Commission
       In 1973, Elizabeth Hanford was nominated by President 
     Richard Nixon and confirmed by the United States Senate to 
     serve as a member of the United States Federal Trade 
     Commission. Established in 1915, the Federal Trade 
     Commission's duties include promoting fair competition 
     through the enforcement of antitrust laws, preventing the 
     dissemination of false and deceptive advertising of goods, 
     and investigating unfair business practices.
       Seeing the commission as an opportunity to bring about 
     lower prices for consumers, to ensure better quality goods 
     and services, and to expand the choices available in a free, 
     competitive marketplace, Commissioner Hanford's (married 
     Senator Bob Dole in 1975) priorities included consumer 
     protections for women and the elderly. She held seminars for 
     women in business, and as the FTC enforced the Equal Credit 
     Opportunity Act, worked with Women in Radio and TV on ads 
     explaining how women, for the first time, could get credit in 
     their own name. Dole's work also included a comprehensive 
     investigation of nursing homes and a number of antitrust and 
     consumer protection investigations and enforcement actions.
     1981-1983: Assistant to the President for Public Liaison
       In January 1981, President Ronald Reagan named Dole 
     Assistant to the President, to head the White House Office of 
     Public Liaison. In that position, Dole played a key role in 
     advancing the Reagan agenda to a wide number of constituent 
     groups (for example, women, business, labor, religious 
     community, Hispanics and other ethics organizations) and to 
     the American people. Dole was instrumental in the passage of 
     the Prompt Pay Act of 1982, which required the government to 
     pay vendors on time or pay an interest penalty.
       Dole also headed the White House Coordinating Council on 
     Women, charged with reviewing government regulations to 
     eliminate vestiges of discrimination, thereby increasing 
     opportunities for women in government

[[Page 24787]]

     and in the country at large. The Council advocated 
     legislation that would make it easier for women to collect 
     court ordered child support payments, and to equalize Social 
     Security benefits for widows and widowers.
     1983-1987: Secretary, United States Secretary of 
         Transportation
       In 1983, President Reagan nominated Dole to serve as 
     Secretary of Transportation--the first women in history to 
     lead that cabinet department. The United States Senate 
     unanimously confirmed her.
       Dole's many accomplishments as Secretary of Transportation 
     included:
       Presiding over what, up to date, were the safest years in 
     the history of American transportation--highways, railways, 
     and airlines.
       Initiating widespread efforts to eliminate drunk driving, 
     particularly among the nation's youth. These efforts led to 
     the passage of legislation raising the drinking age to 21 to 
     eliminate ``blood borders'' between states with differing age 
     requirements.
       Instituting random drug testing of safety and security-
     related employees--the first civilian department to do so.
       Crafting a rule that resolved a twenty year controversy 
     over automatic crash protection in cars. This rule totally 
     changed the climate for auto safety in America, leading to 
     the adoption of mandatory safety belt use laws in 49 American 
     states and providing incentives for auto manufacturers to 
     develop, test, and offer air bags in automobiles.
       Mandating high-mounted brake lights on cars. These ``Dole 
     lights'' cost less than $20 per vehicle, and have been 
     estimated to eliminate 900,000 crashes annually.
       Implementing rules that improved safety in aircraft cabins 
     by making aircraft seats less flammable, improving aircraft 
     cabin evacuation with low-level lights, and reducing the 
     danger of fire in aircraft lavatories.
       Leading successful effort to pass legislation authorizing 
     the transfer of two federally owned airports, Washington 
     National and Dulles, to a regional authority, accomplishing a 
     de-federalization move that had been proposed eight times 
     since 1948 and had never been voted out of committee in 
     either the House or the Senate. The new Reagan National 
     Airport and doubling the size of Dulles International were 
     thereby accomplished through revenue bonds, not federal 
     taxpayer dollars.
       Leading effort for the reopening and redevelopment of 
     Washington D.C.'s Union Station, which had been closed for 
     over five years. Historic Union Station re-opened in 1988, 
     and now houses dozens of shops, restaurants, and theaters, 
     while also serving as a major transportation center.
       Selling government's freight railroad, Conrail, in the 
     largest public offering of its kind to that date.
       Overseeing a 10% increase in the number of women in the 
     Department of Transportation workforce, which had only 19% 
     women in its 100,000 workforce when Elizabeth became 
     Secretary.
       10-point initiative including rotational assignments and 
     career development programs to assist talented women in 
     moving up the ladder.
       First woman to serve as departmental head of a branch of 
     the armed forces, U.S. Coast Guard.
     1989-1990: Secretary, United States Department of Labor
       In January 1981, President George H.W. Bush nominated and 
     the Senate unanimously confirmed Dole to serve as Secretary 
     of the United States Department of Labor--the first woman in 
     history to serve in the cabinet of two presidents.
       Dole's priorities and accomplishments as Secretary of Labor 
     included the following:
       Improving the skills of individuals entering the American 
     workforce. This focus included the appointment of a blue-
     ribbon commission charged with developing national competency 
     guidelines that reflected work readiness and which could be 
     used by the schools for curriculum development; sponsorship 
     of a first-ever national conference on the ``school-to-work'' 
     population; expansion of work-based training along the 
     principles of apprenticeship; and ensuring that the Job 
     Training Partnership Act provided basic skills, literacy, and 
     remedial education along with job training.
       Instigating a ``glass ceiling initiative,'' which revealed 
     the barriers preventing women and minorities from reaching 
     the top levels of corporate America.
       Traveling twice to Poland to assist that country in its 
     transition from communism to democracy. DOL programs included 
     the creation of construction training centers in Warsaw and 
     Gdansk.
       Crafting a strategy that led to the successful conclusion 
     of a bitter eleven month United Mine Workers strike against 
     the Pittston Coal Company. Elizabeth visited the strike scene 
     and traveled through a coal mine.
       Special focus on improving lives of youth at risk in our 
     society.
     1991-1999; President, American Red Cross
       (The first woman president since Clara Barton, who founded 
     the Red Cross in 1881; Out of respect for the thousands of 
     volunteers, she served her first year without pay.)
       During her eight years at the helm of the American Red 
     Cross, Dole led a $287 million project that totally 
     modernized and transformed the Red Cross blood operations 
     begun in World War II. ``Blood Transformation'' integrated 28 
     different computer systems into a single centralized network; 
     replaced 53 non-standardized testing facilities with 8 state-
     of-the-art labs to test for infectious diseases; standardized 
     manufacturing processes across each of its 38 blood regions; 
     and established a Quality Assurance Program that became a 
     model for the blood banking industry.
       Dole also led a massive four-year revitalization of Red 
     Cross disaster relief services, establishing a National 
     Disaster Operations Center open 24 hours a day, 365 days a 
     year to monitor ongoing disasters and impending threats; 
     increasing to twenty-one thousand the number of those trained 
     to handle national catastrophic disasters; and warehousing 
     equipment in areas likely to get hardest hit.
       Dole restructured and strengthened Armed Forces Emergency 
     Services, which provided an average of 4,000 emergency 
     communications a day and other assistance to members of the 
     Armed forces and their families. Her 3-year modernization of 
     AFES included the establishment of two centralized Case 
     Management Centers utilizing the latest technology to replace 
     145 stations on military installations.
       For the first time in its history, Red Cross chapters had 
     to defend their charters, meeting high standards. Henceforth, 
     they were required to meet those high standards every five 
     years in order to keep their charters.
       10-point initiative to help qualified women and minorities 
     move up the ladder, such as apprentices assigned to all 
     senior managers.
       Throughout her tenure, Dole ensured that 91 cents of every 
     dollar donated to the American Red Cross was spent on 
     programs and services.
       Dole led humanitarian visits to disaster sites and war 
     zones around the world, e.g. Kuwait; Somalia; Goma, Congo.
     2003-2009; United States Senator from the State of North 
         Carolina
       In November 2002, Dole was elected by the voters of North 
     Carolina to serve in the United States Senate. Upon taking 
     office in January 2003, Dole became the first woman in 
     history to represent North Carolina in the Senate.
       In her six years in the Senate, Dole's accomplishments 
     included:
       Leading a successful effort to protect North Carolina's 
     military bases from closure and adding additional jobs, for 
     example 9000 at Fort Bragg.
       Working to ensure a fair process that resulted in the 
     basing of two F/A-18E/F Squadrons at Marine Corps Air Station 
     Cherry Point, which brings more than 1,200 jobs and an annual 
     infusion of $40 million to the local economy.
       Securing nearly $4 billion in funding for rural North 
     Carolina and preventing thousands of farm families from 
     bankruptcy by achieving a tobacco quota buyout with no tax 
     implications.
       Leading a bipartisan effort to extend family and medical 
     leave coverage to military families.
       Successfully working for a law that protects service 
     members and their families from predatory lenders.
       Successfully advocating since 2003 for a strong world class 
     regulator for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
       Securing $57 million for hiring customs agents focused 
     solely on keeping illegal textiles out of the country.
       Securing $350 million in federal funding for North Carolina 
     transportation infrastructure projects.
       Authoring legislation that provided increased grant funding 
     to community colleges through the Higher Education Act.
       Working with federal officials and sheriffs across North 
     Carolina's 100 counties to deliver the first in the nation 
     statewide partnership to apprehend, identify and remove 
     undocumented aliens who commit crimes.
       Helping to lead the effort to raise fuel economy standards 
     for cars and light trucks in the 2007 energy bill to 35 miles 
     per gallon by model year 2020, thereby saving 800,000 barrels 
     of oil per day in 2020 and nearly one million barrels per day 
     by 2021.
       Becoming a national leader in the fight against hunger, 
     through the adoption of a farm bill that expanded funding for 
     federal anti-hunger programs, and helping to secure more than 
     $400 million for the McGovern-Dole International Food for 
     Education and Child Nutrition Program.
       Convincing the Office of National Drug Control Policy to 
     designate five counties in North Carolina as part of its High 
     Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program.
       Helping to lead the effort to reauthorize the President's 
     Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief at $48 billion, and $9 billion 
     for prevention of malaria and tuberculosis, thereby 
     preventing 12 million new HIV infections, treating 3 million 
     people living with HIV/AIDS, and supporting care for 12 
     million people living with HIV/AIDS.
       Handling 40,000 cases for North Carolina constituents who 
     needed assistance with a federal agency.
       These are just the highlights and while she did not always 
     reach her goals, most of her life has been filled with 
     successes because of

[[Page 24788]]

     her hard work, her faith, integrity and determination. Mitch, 
     I'm proud of her record, as you are of Elaine's remarkable 
     achievements, which included their work together at the 
     Department of Transportation. I believe those who read this 
     will be inspired to set higher goals for themselves and will 
     accomplish a great deal more in their lifetimes.
           God Bless America,
                                                      Bob.
 Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, the final gavel will soon bring to a 
close the 110th Session of Congress. When it does, we will all return 
home to spend time with our friends and families to celebrate the 
holidays. We will also have a chance to meet with our constituents as 
we prepare for the challenges the New Year, a new administration and a 
new session of Congress will bring.
  Before all of that occurs, we will say goodbye to several of our 
colleagues who will be returning home at the end of the year. We will 
miss them and the important presence they have been in our lives and 
our work over the past few years. One Senator I know we will all miss 
is Elizabeth Dole, the Senator from North Carolina.
  It's that time of year when we will be watching our traditional 
holiday film favorites and one that certainly brings Elizabeth Dole to 
mind is It's A Wonderful Life. I don't think anyone has had a more 
exciting or interesting career than Elizabeth and certainly no one has 
a more impressive or detailed resume than she does.
  Elizabeth has been a trailblazer throughout her life as she set out 
on a path to show others what was possible. Thanks to her, women of all 
ages across the country have a role model and a champion to look up to 
who has raised their sights as to what is possible for them to achieve 
in their lives.
  Looking back, Elizabeth has been on the front lines of our national 
political scene for many years. She has broken quite a few glass 
ceilings, too, as she has taken a position of leadership and worked in 
the administrations of five Presidents. In the recent past she was 
often mentioned as someone who would make a good Presidential candidate 
herself.
  Elizabeth really has lived a wonderful life. After her graduation 
from Harvard Law School she was asked to serve as a consumer affairs 
aide to President Lyndon Johnson. She then served under President 
Nixon, President Carter, President Ford and President Reagan, who asked 
her to join his administration.
  Elizabeth set another precedent when she was appointed to serve as 
the Secretary of the Department of Transportation. She was the first 
woman ever to serve in that post. It was another opportunity for her to 
make a difference and she got right to work. She increased automobile 
safety requirements, worked to raise the drinking age to 21, imposed 
tougher security measures at our airports, and helped to make our cars 
safer. All of these changes not only made our lives better, but they 
also helped to save countless lives over the years.
  President George Herbert Bush then asked her to serve as his 
Secretary of Labor, a post that Elizabeth would use to help identify 
and erase the barriers that were preventing women and minorities from 
moving up the corporate ladder. She saw her service as an important 
opportunity to change things and make life better for others, and once 
again, she succeeded.
  That would have been enough for most people, the end of a remarkable 
career, a wonderful life in itself, but Elizabeth was just getting 
started. When she left public life and entered the private sector, she 
then took up the reins as the President of the American Red Cross. She 
was the first woman to hold the post since Clara Barton, the 
organization's founder held it in 1881. It was a difficult job and a 
tremendous challenge, but she was more than up to the task. Elizabeth 
took over a Red Cross in real financial trouble, but when she got 
through organizing and overhauling things, a large deficit turned into 
enough cash on hand to provide the kind of assistance the Red Cross is 
known for in the event of any local or national emergency.
  Elizabeth is probably one of Duke University's best known graduates. 
Her North Carolina roots then brought her back home to make a run for 
the Senate. As she campaigned, the people listened to her and they 
liked what they heard. They decided that sending her to Washington to 
represent them would be a good idea. The record shows they were right.
  In the Senate, Elizabeth has been at the forefront of efforts to 
ensure that our workers will have the training they will need to change 
careers and move on to better jobs in the current global economy. She 
had the insight to propose legislation to provide grants to small 
business owners so they could get the training they would need to be 
more competitive in the markets of today.
  On the Banking Committee, Elizabeth has been at the center of the 
action on the Nation's financial problems. She has played an important 
role in the effort to enact tougher regulations to stop predatory 
lending and place tighter controls on government sponsored mortgages.
  Clearly, Elizabeth has compiled a long list of achievements and 
accomplishments in her life that would make anyone proud. She has 
received a number of awards and recognitions for her tremendous efforts 
as a national political figure. But, what is probably most important to 
her, is the fact that she has blazed a trail for others to follow and 
by so doing she has inspired a new generation of women of all ages to 
set a higher standard for themselves and what they think is possible 
for them to achieve. In the end, that may be her greatest 
accomplishment of them all.
  This is only a small part of Elizabeth's story and there are many 
more items on her record that are equally impressive. Together with her 
husband, Bob Dole, she has been part of a remarkable team and they have 
had a profound influence on the Senate and the Nation on every level.
  Diana and I will miss seeing Elizabeth here in the Senate, but I have 
a hunch she will be close by to keep an eye on us and to keep in touch. 
She has had a remarkable career and a wonderful life and we were very 
proud to be a part of it. We enjoy her company, her unique style, and 
most of all, we enjoy her friendship. We don't know what her next 
adventure in her life will be, but we will be watching with great 
interest as this exciting chapter comes to a close and she begins to 
write the next.
 Ms. SNOWE. Mr. President, I rise to pay tribute to my longtime 
good friend and colleague who, as one of 16 women Senators in the 110th 
Congress, has been a tremendous and cherished compatriot and an 
outstanding legislator, leader, and public servant.
  This Chamber was truly fortunate and blessed to have someone of 
Elizabeth's background, understanding, and stature. A veteran of five 
administrations, Senator Dole, upon her arrival in the U.S. Senate in 
2002, brought with her an impressive depth and breadth of experience 
even by Senate standards, and a grace befitting her southern heritage 
combined with a tireless commitment to uncompromising substance.
  Having acquired both a masters and law degree from Harvard 
University, Senator Dole put the rigors of academia to good use in the 
pursuit of public service. She worked as a consumer affairs aide to 
both President Johnson and President Nixon and as a member of the 
Federal Trade Commission under President Ford and President Carter. And 
as a Member of Congress, I well recall Elizabeth in her role as 
assistant for public liaison in the Reagan Administration--where she 
served while I was in the U.S. House of Representatives. And she broke 
new ground as the first woman to serve as U.S. Secretary of 
Transportation--a post she held under President Reagan, and then as 
Secretary of Labor under President George H.W. Bush.
  After ending her stellar executive branch tenure, Senator Dole 
assumed the helm of the American Red Cross in 1991. And who could 
forget her valiant run in 1999 for the White House. As ranking member 
on the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, I had 
the privilege of not only serving with Senator Dole, but also 
collaborating with her on issues

[[Page 24789]]

affecting women in small business. Together, we saw an untapped 
capacity that women business-owners clearly possess to contribute to 
this economy--and we have worked tirelessly to remove unacceptable and 
regrettable impediments to receiving assistance and contracting 
opportunities from the Federal Government.
  In fact, we introduced legislation which would amend the Small 
Business Act to allow women-owned small businesses to have a meaningful 
contracting program--one that would apply to a broad array of business 
industries across this Nation; and prevent the SBA from requiring 
agencies to admit to past discrimination in order to participate in the 
women's Federal contracting program. The fact is, our government is 
supposed to work for the people, not against them. Senator Dole 
understood that basic tenet firsthand, as it impacted women business-
owners, and was instrumental in championing our opposition to an 
egregious SBA rule.
  I say to Elizabeth, all of us in the Senate are going to miss her 
presence and contributions to this venerable chamber--but as she is 
well aware, there are 15 of us who are losing more than a friend and a 
colleague . . . but also a compatriot . . . and, yes, a kind of sister-
in-arms. We all have the sense of a bond born of serving together in 
this institution as a minority of our own. I recall having our dinners 
first at the Sewall-Belmont House, then the Supreme Court, the Library 
of Congress, and the last one we came full circle by dining in the U.S. 
Capitol. Elizabeth, will certainly be missed.
  Lastly, on a very personal note, I don't think many of us will get 
completely used to a U.S. Senate without a Dole--and what an 
incalculable personal and combined service both Elizabeth Dole and our 
esteemed and beloved former majority leader, Bob Dole, have rendered to 
our country. So on this occasion, as we celebrate the exceptional 
contributions of Elizabeth Dole in the Senate and throughout her life, 
our warmest regards go out to her and leader Dole, and we wish them 
both nothing but the best for the future.
 Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, I ask to have printed in the 
Record an article about Senator Elizabeth Dole, who will be departing 
the Senate this year. She has been my seatmate, and, I must say, she is 
my favorite in the entire Senate. A brilliant thinker, an incredibly 
hard worker, gracious, a person of sincere faith who lives it every 
day, she has lifted the Senate to a higher level throughout her tenure 
and through many difficult times. Her record of service, as Paul 
Weyrich notes, is truly extraordinary. Throughout her long and 
distinguished career, her commitment to America has never been 
questioned. Her decency, experience, and leadership qualities have 
blessed us all. She grew up in small town North Carolina and the values 
instilled in her by family, church, and school were never lost. I wish 
her every success in her future endeavors and am confident that in this 
next stage of her life she will continue to contribute to the 
betterment of our nation.
  The article follows.

                     [Townhall.com. Dec. 11, 2008]

                 A Tribute to Senator Elizabeth H. Dole

                           (By Paul Weyrich)

       A good lady is about to leave Washington, D.C. after 
     decades of public service. I refer to Senator Elizabeth 
     Hanford Dole (R-NC), who was defeated in her bid for re-
     election in the 2008 election. Dole married Senator Robert J. 
     ``Bob'' Dole in 1975. President Gerald R. Ford named him his 
     running mate after dumping the unpopular Vice President, 
     Nelson A. Rockefeller. Dole was Majority Leader of the Senate 
     from 1985 to 1987, when Democrats regained control of the 
     Senate and he became Minority Leader. Dole remained the 
     leader of the Senate Republicans until he resigned his post 
     to be the GOP Presidential nominee in 1996.
       All this time Elizabeth Dole was at his side. But she 
     became an important figure in her own right. When Ronald W. 
     Reagan was elected President in 1980 Dole became Reagan's 
     liaison to conservatives, veterans and others. Soon Reagan 
     named her Secretary of Transportation. By all accounts she 
     did an admirable job. In the Administration of George H.W. 
     Bush, Dole became Secretary of Labor. She and Bob Dole became 
     a power couple in D.C.
       When Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC) retired after 40 years in 
     the Senate, Elizabeth Dole ran for his seat. He campaigned 
     for her. She suggested she would vote like Helms and indeed 
     she did. However, some North Carolinians suggested that her 
     constituent services left much to be desired. And by all 
     accounts she ran an inadequate re-election campaign.
       I watched with sadness as she questioned automobile 
     manufacturers in the lame duck session of Congress. Soon she 
     will have to pack up her office and head home. Her husband is 
     now all but retired. This once-powerful couple is out of 
     power. Dole is gracious about her loss. One would hardly know 
     she had been defeated. Yet she leaves Washington having 
     accomplished much in her service in the White House, the 
     Transportation and Labor Departments and the United States 
     Senate. This is one fine lady, the likes of whom we probably 
     will not see in this town for many years.

 Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, even before she came to the 
U.S. Senate, Elizabeth Dole was already a trailblazer and one of the 
most accomplished women in American history.
  At a time when women who attended prestigious colleges and 
universities were rare, Senator Dole received an undergraduate degree 
from Duke University, as well as two degrees from Harvard University: a 
master's degree in education and government, and a law degree. She was 
one of only 24 women in her Harvard Law School class of 550.
  She then began a public service career that paved the way for 
millions of women who have admired and followed her.
  After serving as the Deputy Director of the White House Office of 
Consumer Affairs in the Nixon administration, Elizabeth Dole was 
appointed as a member of the Federal Trade Commission.
  From 1981-83, she served in the Reagan administration as assistant to 
the President for Public Liaison.
  From 1983-87, she served as Secretary of Transportation, the first 
woman to hold that position.
  She joined the administration of President George H.W. Bush as 
Secretary of Labor from 1989-90.
  From 1991-98, Elizabeth Dole was the President of the American Red 
Cross, the world's largest humanitarian organization.
  Finally, in 2002, she won election to the U.S. Senate from North 
Carolina.
  As the senior Senator from the Tar Heel State, Elizabeth Dole has 
fought for lower taxes, choice in Social Security, and comprehensive 
energy reform.
  Senator Dole, and her wonderful husband, former Senate Majority 
Leader Bob Dole, have made a tremendous impact on American history.
  I will miss working with Senator Elizabeth Dole, and I wish her all 
the best.


                              John Sununu

  Mr. President, I have really enjoyed working with John Sununu.
  John Sununu grew up in Salem, NH, and is one of eight children. He 
was first introduced to public service at a young age, when his mother 
served as chairman of the local school board.
  John attended public schools, graduated from Salem High School, and 
received bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering from 
the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
  John also earned a master's degree in business administration from 
the Harvard Graduate School of Business.
  John Sununu first ran for public office in 1996, winning election in 
New Hampshire's 1st District and serving 3 terms in the U.S. House.
  In 2002, John defeated both an incumbent Senator and the sitting 
Governor to become the youngest Member of the U.S. Senate.
  As a Senator, John distinguished himself as an innovative legislator, 
bringing his extensive background in science, engineering, and small 
business to his work in Washington.
  Senator Sununu has been a staunch advocate for low taxes, smarter 
regulation, and civil liberties.
  Since he is still a young man at the age of 44, I suspect that we 
will be hearing a lot more from John Sununu in the years to come.
  I wish him well in his future endeavors.


                              Gordon Smith

  Mr. President, Gordon Smith has served the people of Oregon extremely 
well.
  Before coming to the U.S. Senate, he served as director of the family 
owned

[[Page 24790]]

Smith frozen foods company in Weston, OR, where he created jobs and 
spurred economic growth.
  Gordon Smith entered politics with his election to the Oregon State 
Senate in 1992, and he became president of that body in 1995.
  Since winning election to the U.S. Senate in 1996, Senator Smith has 
worked with his colleagues on both sides of the aisle on critical 
issues.
  Senator Smith chaired the Special Committee on Aging, and he also 
served on the following Senate committees: Commerce, Science and 
Transportation, Energy and Natural Resources, Finance, and Indian 
Affairs.
  Senator Smith has also courageously led the effort to educate 
Americans on ways to prevent the tragedy of suicide of young men and 
women.
  In 2004, I was so proud when President Bush signed the Garrett Lee 
Smith Memorial Act, authorizing $82 million for suicide prevention and 
awareness programs at colleges.
  Because of his business experience, he was a Senate leader on issues 
and regulations that impede economic growth.
  Senator Smith also distinguished himself by championing rural 
Oregonians, including the many farmers and ranchers throughout the 
mountains and lake areas of his beautiful State.
  I thank Gordon Smith for his dedication and service, and I wish him 
well.


                              Ted Stevens

  Mr. President, Senator Ted Stevens of Alaska has served in the U.S. 
Senate for 40 years, and is the longest-serving Republican Senator in 
history.
  On a personal note, I have enjoyed working with Senator Stevens, and 
it has been a true privilege to collaborate with him on some of the 
most important issues facing our great Nation--including energy, health 
care, and national defense.
  Senator Stevens' service to the United States didn't begin when he 
stepped inside this chamber. Rather, his service began decades 
earlier--during some of the most harrowing days of World War Two.
  Senator Stevens was part of the Greatest Generation who fought and 
won that global struggle for freedom--flying a C-47 in the China Burma 
India Theater.
  Incredibly, over 1,000 of Senator Stevens' fellow airmen died 
``flying the hump'' and elsewhere in the Chinese Burma India Theater--a 
sobering reminder of the high price of freedom.
  For his heroic efforts, Senator Stevens later received two 
Distinguished Flying Crosses and two Air Medals, as well as the Yuan 
Hai medal awarded by the Republic of China.
  After the war, Senator Stevens completed his education at UCLA and 
Harvard Law School, and then moved to Alaska, which was then a U.S. 
territory.
  In the city of Fairbanks, Senator Stevens practiced law for several 
years, until he came to Washington, DC, to serve in the Eisenhower 
administration, and also to lobby for Alaska's admittance into the 
Union--a mission that succeeded in 1959.
  When Senator Stevens returned to Alaska, he ran for--and won a seat 
in the Alaska House of Representatives, and later became House majority 
leader.
  Then, in December 1968, Governor Walter J. Hickel appointed him to 
fill a vacancy in the U.S. Senate.
  In 1970, the voters of Alaska ratified that choice by electing 
Senator Stevens to finish that term in a special election, and then re-
electing him six more times.
  Senator Stevens' achievements are legendary in this Chamber--
including chairman of the Senate Rules Committee, the Appropriations 
Committee, the Commerce Committee and President pro tempore of the U.S. 
Senate--from January 2003 to January 2007.
  For his many decades of service, Senator Stevens has received and 
accepted numerous honors--including having the Anchorage International 
Airport named after him.
  Back in 1993, when I first arrived in the U.S. Senate, I was one of 
only seven female Senators, and if the Senate was a men's club, then 
the Appropriations Committee was its inner sanctum.
  There was not a single woman on the Defense Appropriations 
Subcommittee, but that is where I wanted to serve.
  I explained to Senator Stevens--who was then the ranking member of 
the committee--that Texas has more Army soldiers than any other State, 
more Air Force airmen and women stationed in Texas than any other 
State, and our defense industry builds everything from fighter aircraft 
to Army trucks to artillery systems to sophisticated electronics 
equipment for the Pentagon.
  Therefore, I hoped to be able to serve on that committee.
  After some careful thought, Senator Stevens agreed, and welcomed me 
to the Committee.
  Senator Stevens has been known to show dramatic performances on the 
Senate floor, keeping wandering eyes focused on the urgent issues that 
need to be addressed.
  One day, during a mark-up in the Senate Appropriations Committee, 
Senator Stevens, who chaired the committee at the time, grew very 
animated and laid down the law.
  When a frustrated senior Senator told Senator Stevens that ``there 
was no reason to lose your temper,'' Senator Stevens glared back and 
responded, ``I never lose my temper. I always know exactly where I left 
it.''
  Senator Stevens acknowledges his quick temper; but those who know him 
see the other side--a compassionate heart.
  I will never forget when a group of protestors gathered outside of 
the Appropriations Committee conference to demand increased funding for 
breast cancer research.
  One particularly agitated advocate got in Senator Stevens' face and 
said, ``If men were dying of breast cancer, you wouldn't think twice 
about increasing the funding.''
  Needless to say, those words made quite an impact on Senator Stevens, 
but probably not what this advocate anticipated.
  When Senator Stevens walked back into the conference, he repeated the 
charge and then looked around at his mostly male colleagues.
  He knew that at least 6 of them suffered from prostate cancer.
  He also noticed that the bill they were considering didn't fund 
prostate cancer research.
  But thanks to the excellent suggestion of the woman in the hallway, 
he became an advocate for breast cancer research and prostate cancer 
research. Senator Stevens became a leader on these issues.
  He has been a champion of a strong national defense and of the men 
and women who serve in the military.
  I wish him and his family the best.


                              Gordon Smith

 Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, we have come to the end of another 
legislative session and we are all preparing to return home to 
celebrate the holidays with our friends and families back home. As we 
close the books on the 110th Session of Congress, it is good to have 
this opportunity take a moment to say goodbye to our colleagues who 
will not be with us when the gavel opens the next session of Congress. 
We will miss them all.
  One Senator we will particularly miss when the next session of 
Congress begins is Gordon Smith. Gordon is a remarkable representative 
of his home State and he has been an important voice for the people of 
Oregon during his 12 years of service in the Senate.
  I have enjoyed coming to know Gordon and having a chance to work with 
him on several issues of concern to the people of our States. During 
his service, he has compiled a remarkable record of success that has 
earned him a reputation for his ability to get things done in both the 
private and public sector.
  Gordon and I have something in common--a love of numbers and the 
intricacies of the law and how they impact the small businesses of our 
Nation. We are both aware of the importance of the small business 
community and the jobs they provide to the people of this Nation. 
Without them our local, State and national economies would be in even 
worse shape than they are right now. With them, there is great hope and 
confidence that we will be able to find a solution to the economic 
problems facing our country.

[[Page 24791]]

  Gordon knows something about running a small business from the days 
he spent trying to revive the frozen vegetable processing company that 
had been in his family's hands. Because of the strength of his will, 
his determination to succeed, and his commitment to excellence, he was 
able to produce amazing results. He took what had been an unprofitable 
business and turned it into one of the largest frozen food companies in 
the United States. His incredible ride to the top earned him a place in 
the Frozen Food Industry Hall of Fame.
  It also earned him a spot on the Senate Finance Committee, where he 
has worked tirelessly to protect the small businesses of our Nation. 
His business sense and the practical experience he had of meeting a 
payroll and planning a budget helped him to master all of the details 
of our tax policy. He has an uncanny sense and a profound understanding 
of what works and what doesn't--and why. Fortunately, he has been at 
the right place at the right time and has known what to do to fix 
things and right our country's economic ship.
  Gordon's commitment to our families has shown itself in many ways, 
most notably, by his work to tackle the problem of uninsured children. 
He offered an amendment that passed the Senate that provided for an 
increase in Federal cigarette taxes to fund a program to cover some 6 
million uninsured children who were eligible for but were not enrolled 
in State health insurance programs or Medicaid.
  He fought for our children because Gordon understands full well that 
they are our most important resource. If we don't provide them with 
affordable health care, a good education, and a supportive home 
environment that will make it possible for them to be successful in 
school and later in life, then nothing we do, no matter how well we do 
it will matter much in the long run.
  Gordon knew it would not be easy to pass that amendment, but he was 
ready for a fight. He made it clear that if anything was worth fighting 
for, that was it. It really was no wonder, therefore, when he won a 
clear and decisive victory--not for himself, but for those 6 million 
children who now have a chance to live a happier and healthier life, 
thanks to Gordon Smith. It's another proud chapter in his legislative 
career--and it's part of a legacy of service to the people of Oregon 
that will never be forgotten.
  As I have come to know Gordon, I have thought that he is a little 
like me because we both love to confound those in both parties who are 
surprised to see us working so well with members on both sides of the 
aisle. We have both worked with Ted Kennedy and thanks to his 
willingness to help us pursue a common agenda, we have both been able 
to make progress on the issues that concern us and the people back 
home.
  In the months to come, I believe we will most remember Gordon for the 
way he faced the personal tragedy of losing a son. I can only imagine 
the pain that comes with such a loss. Gordon handled that time in his 
life with great strength and shared his experience with us, not to draw 
attention to himself, but because he knew that ``his having been 
there'' would enable him to reach out to help those who might be facing 
a similar struggle in the lives of their own families.
  As he began to heal from that painful wound, he took that personal 
tragedy and gave it added meaning by working to pass a suicide 
prevention bill that now bears his son's name. It was another battle he 
fought because it was the right thing to do. He took up the cause 
because he believed in it with all his heart. As a result, the Garrett 
Lee Smith Memorial Act will forever serve as a loving testament of a 
father to the life of his son. It will encourage us all to reach out to 
those facing similar problems so they can receive the help and support 
they need to go on with their lives.
  I have always known Gordon to be a man of great spiritual strength, a 
former Mormon bishop who has deep personal and moral convictions. He 
has a strong sense of right and wrong and his inner compass has helped 
to guide him in the direction that he felt was best for his State and 
the Nation. He is an individual blessed with a strong and determined 
spirit who has a special place in his heart and his life for his God 
and his country.
 Ms. SNOWE. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to 
Senator Gordon Smith, with whom I have had the privilege of working 
throughout his 12 years of service in the U.S. Senate. Gordon has been 
a great friend to me as he has to so many of us--but most importantly 
he has been a tremendous asset to the Senate, the Nation, and certainly 
the great State of Oregon.
  Since his election to the U.S. Senate in 1996, the people of Oregon 
have benefited immeasurably from Senator Smith's leadership. Throughout 
his service on numerous committees, including the Commerce and Finance 
Committees where we have served together, Senator Smith has been a 
credit to this body and has left a positive and lasting mark--
exemplified by his tireless work on the State Children's Health 
Insurance Program, and the leadership he took in defending the Medicaid 
program from misguided budget cuts.
  Above all else, Senator Smith always perceived his responsibility as 
representing his country before his party. There is no doubt that as we 
move forward into next Congress, I, for one, will miss his independent 
perspective.
  Since 1992, when he won election to the Oregon State Senate, Senator 
Smith has devoted his life to public service--and his integrity and 
dedication to the finest ideals of service make him a role model for 
all Americans. Few who have held the position of U.S. Senator have been 
able to combine his candor, civility, aptitude, and absolute dedication 
to the public good that have allowed him to be such an effective, 
bipartisan Member of the Senate.
  What many may not understand is the camaraderie that we build with 
our fellow Members of the Senate. We spend aggregate months each year 
separated from our homes, families, and friends and in doing so, each 
of us becomes a part of an extended family. So it was the most acute 
and profound sadness that we all felt in our hearts upon the loss in 
2003 of Gordon's son, Garrett Lee. And having read Senator Smith's 
book, Remembering Garrett, One Family's Battle with a Child's 
Depression, I still find it almost unimaginable the grace and courage 
he displayed in continuing his work during the most difficult of times 
after Garrett's tragic passing.
  As a testament to his humble nature, Senator Smith turned from his 
own loss to help others. And he forged a remarkable and indelible 
legacy for his son with the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act--legislation 
to which Senator Smith has dedicated his life. This act, which the 
President signed into law on October 21, 2004, authorized $82 million 
for suicide-prevention and awareness programs, and represented just the 
first step Senator Smith has taken to help prevent other families from 
having to experience what his has endured.
  Ou Government is supposed to work for the people, and few individuals 
during my tenure in public service have exemplified this truism more so 
than Senator Smith. In the Senate, Gordon never allowed a party label 
to determine who he works with on critical legislation affecting our 
Nation. He had the skill to work across the aisle with intelligence and 
grace, and most of all, his highest priority was his constituents in 
Oregon. Whether he was fighting for transit funding in urban Portland 
or assistance in coastal fishing communities and rural timber towns, 
Gordon always knew where his roots were, and he was invariably an 
eloquent champion for those issues that truly mattered for the people 
of Oregon.
  Gordon, we thank you, we will miss you, and please know that you have 
left a positive and indelible mark on the Senate. All the best to you, 
Sharon, and your entire family for the future.
 Mrs. HUTCHISON. Gordon Smith has served the people of Oregon 
extremely well.
  Before coming to the U.S. Senate, he served as director of the 
family-owned Smith frozen foods company in Weston,

[[Page 24792]]

Oregon, where he created jobs and spurred economic growth.
  Gordon Smith entered politics with his election to the Oregon State 
Senate in 1992, and he became president of that body in 1995.
  Since winning election to the U.S. Senate in 1996, Senator Smith has 
worked with his colleagues on both sides of the aisle on critical 
issues.
  Senator Smith chaired the Special Committee on Aging, and he also 
served on the following Senate committees: Commerce, Science and 
Transportation, Energy and Natural Resources, Finance, and Indian 
Affairs.
  Senator Smith has also courageously used family tragedy as a way to 
educate and encourage Americans on a very important subject: suicide 
prevention for young men and women.
  In 2004, I was so proud when President Bush signed the Garrett Lee 
Smith Memorial Act, authorizing $82 million for suicide-prevention and 
awareness programs at colleges.
  Senator Smith also distinguished himself by championing rural 
Oregonians, including the many farmers and ranchers throughout the 
mountains and lake areas of his beautiful State.
  I thank Gordon Smith for his dedication and service, and I wish him 
well.
 Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. President, I too wish speak of my good 
friend, Senator Gordon Smith of Oregon. Senator Smith came to the 
Senate for all the right reasons, most importantly to represent the 
people who elected him and he has done an outstanding job of doing just 
that. Gordon never shied away from the controversial issues and often 
went against the majority position of his own party. Every time he did 
so he articulated in a very professional way his reason why he was 
voting and the way he did. This always takes courage and conviction, 
and Gordon Smith possesses both.
  I will always admire Gordon's faith, which allowed him to survive 
personal tragedy as well as deal with the day-to-day decisions of the 
Senate.
  Senator Gordon Smith is one of those Members who makes serving in the 
Senate a pleasure. I will miss his counsel, his advice, and his 
friendship. God speed to he, Sharon, and their family.


                              john sununu

 Ms. SNOWE. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to 
Senator John Sununu, an outstanding public servant and fellow New 
Englander whose common-sense approach to governance and dedication to 
problem-solving have well-served both his constituents of the Granite 
State of New Hampshire as well as his country.
  It is impossible not to like and respect someone of Senator Sununu's 
tremendous affability and enormous capability. Personable and 
analytical, John brought to the U.S. Senate what he exhibited during 
his accomplished tenure in the U.S. House--a welcomed engineer's 
perspective. So, we are losing more than a colleague of undeniable 
skill and integrity--we are going to miss his vital and refreshing 
contribution to this Chamber's national conversation.
  And so, let me just say, it's been my good fortune to serve with John 
on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation--
specifically, the Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and 
Coast Guard as ranking member, and the Senate Committee on Finance.
  Particularly, as a member of the Ocean's Subcommittee, and former 
chair of the Subcommittee on the National Ocean Policy Study, Senator 
Sununu advocated for New England's fishermen and fishing communities 
through several difficult years. Moreover, as Maine's groundfishery 
continued to suffer under ever more stringent catch limits, and our 
lobster industry faced increasingly strict regulations, John's help was 
instrumental in keeping these issues at the fore and protecting one of 
our region's and our Nation's most historic professions. For his 
tireless leadership on these crucial issues, we are forever grateful.
  On two additional topics that are also profoundly critical not only 
to my State of Maine, but also to the entire New England region--the 
vitality of Kittery-Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and the protection of the 
pivotal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP, John and I 
have been vigilant, working hand-in glove to ensure the continued 
viability of these indispensable mainstays of our neighboring States.
  In fact, in the 110th Congress, we--as part of both the New Hampshire 
and Maine delegations--working with the Kittery-Portsmouth community, 
union leaders, and Captain Mazzone and his world-class team--fought 
vigorously and successfully to secure $20.7 million in full funding for 
the construction of the Waterfront Support Facility at drydock #3--and 
$9.9 million for the first phase of a new Consolidated Global Submarine 
Component Facility. As a much-admired, ``best in Navy performance'' 
shipyard that delivers the best work consistently on time and under 
budget, Kittery-Portsmouth Naval Shipyard--the oldest naval shipyard in 
the Nation--unquestionably deserved no less.
  When it comes to the life or death matter of LIHEAP, since coming to 
Congress in 1997, John has, time and again, battled on behalf of 
thousands of families in New Hampshire who require fuel assistance to 
stay warm in their homes during the winter months. Senator Sununu was a 
stalwart addition to the chorus of those championing LIHEAP from New 
England and other affected regions around the country.
  Although there are truly serious subjects of public policy that bind 
us as New Englanders, nothing brings us together more than our beloved 
Boston Red Sox. And I dare say, one of John's fondest memories over the 
last 6 years likely has nothing to do with the U.S. Senate and 
everything to do with being from New England and a Red Sox fan--as 
Boston won not one but two World Series Championships, shattering the 
much-ballyhooed curse for good.
  In the end, Mr. President, the true measure of a person is not making 
a living by what you get--but rather by what you give, and John Sununu, 
during his entire time in Congress, has given his State of New 
Hampshire remarkable public service worthy of its venerable heritage. 
By entering the family business of politics, John has indeed been a 
steward of the country's business, and we, and his State of New 
Hampshire, owe him a debt of great thanks.
 Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, soon the gavel will bring to a close 
the 110th Congress and we will say goodbye to several good friends who 
will be leaving the Senate and returning to their home States. We will 
miss them all.
  John Sununu will be heading home at the end of the current session 
and I know I will miss him when the next session of Congress is called 
to order on the Senate floor. I have enjoyed having an opportunity to 
come to know him during his service in the Senate and on the Senate 
Banking Committee. He has always impressed me with his knowledge of the 
intricacies of our Federal mortgage system. It is clear he has always 
had the tools and the talent to be an effective representative for the 
people of his State and he has always been a strong and effective voice 
for the people of New Hampshire.
  John learned about politics and public service at a young age as he 
watched both of his parents pursue their careers in their chosen 
fields. John's mother was a school board member, which explains his 
aptitude for science and math. He soon turned his talent for numbers 
into a degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his 
interest in business into a degree from Harvard.
  As the old adage says so well, he comes from good stock and a great 
political family. His father served as the Governor of New Hampshire 
and later as President Bush's Chief of Staff. He learned a great deal 
from his father about politics and what mattered to the people of his 
home State as he traveled around New Hampshire with his dad. He then 
put those lessons into practice when he made his own run for office.
  John's initial run for the House led to three successful terms. He 
then launched a successful campaign for the Senate.
  As soon as he arrived, he made it clear he was going to follow his 
own path and he had his own way of doing

[[Page 24793]]

things. He had spent years working with the people of his home State 
and he had a clear view of those issues that were of great concern to 
them.
  When he was asked, he had a ready explanation for the reason why he 
had such a unique perspective on things. It was all due, he would say, 
to his long New Hampshire roots. He knew that the people of New 
Hampshire are known for their independence and they have a long 
tradition of great respect for the rights and freedoms of this country. 
That, he would say, has drawn my focus and sparked my interest in these 
issues.
  John has been a welcome and spirited presence on the Senate Commerce, 
Science and Transportation Committee. His educational background has 
helped him to stay on top of the latest technological advances and 
developments and that has helped him in the effort to keep our 
regulations on the latest technologies up to date, current and 
effective.
  Yogi Berra used to say that you can observe a lot just by watching. I 
hope John will forgive me for quoting the words of a Yankee legend to a 
Red Sox fan, but as I have watched him in action, it is clear from his 
style that he has a bit of Wyoming in him. Never one to look for 
opportunities to speak to the press or make lengthy speeches to get 
noticed, John has always been focused on what he could do that would 
help to get things done. In my home State we like to say that you can 
get anything done if you don't care who gets the credit. John is like 
that. He has been working to get things done for New Hampshire and he 
has earned the credit he has received back home.
  One of the issues that has always drawn John's interest has been the 
environment, especially the quality of our air. It is a sensitive issue 
for him, and he has always shown himself up to the task of fighting for 
cleaner air for the folks back home. His long list of achievements on 
this and many other issues will be his legacy, a record of which he can 
be very proud.
  In the years to come, I will remember John for his unique sense of 
style, his determination to get things done for his state, and his 
willingness to stand up for those things he believed in with that 
remarkable intellect of his. He's not just a smart guy. There are a lot 
of very gifted individuals who knew what had to be done but could just 
never do it. John is a thoughtful man of action who has an in-depth 
understanding of the problems that face the Nation and a unique insight 
into what will work and what won't. Simply put, John knows how to make 
the right things happen.
  Now John and Kitty will be returning home to New Hampshire to begin 
some new and exciting chapter in their lives. I don't know what they 
will decide to do, but I do know that John will stay active and 
involved in the issues that concern him that carried him to Washington 
for these past 12 years to serve in the House and the Senate. He would 
be the first to tell you that it has been a pleasure and an honor to 
work for the people of New Hampshire, and I am certain we haven't heard 
the last from him. For my part, I appreciate all his help on the issues 
we worked on together, but most of all, I appreciate his friendship and 
his willingness to play such an important part in the history of New 
Hampshire and the United States. He can be very proud of the difference 
he has made. He has been a good and effective Senator and the people of 
New Hampshire will always be proud of him and that they had the good 
sense to send him to Washington.
 Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I have really enjoyed working 
with John Sununu.
  John Sununu grew up in Salem, NH, and is one of eight children. He 
was first introduced to public service at a young age, when his mother 
served as chairman of the local school board.
  John attended public schools, graduated from Salem High School, and 
received bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering from 
the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
  John also earned a master's degree in business administration from 
the Harvard Graduate School of Business.
  John Sununu first ran for public office in 1996, winning election in 
New Hampshire's 1st District and serving three terms in the U.S. House.
  In 2002, John defeated both an incumbent Senator and an incumbent 
Governor to become the youngest member of the U.S. Senate.
  As a Senator, John distinguished himself as an innovative legislator, 
bringing his extensive background in science, engineering, and small 
business to his work in Washington.
  Senator Sununu has been a staunch advocate for low taxes, smarter 
regulation, and civil liberties.
  Senator Sununu is also a man of heart.
  I will never forget that in July 2005, to show solidarity with 
Senator Specter, who had lost his hair due to chemotherapy, Senator 
Sununu shaved his head.
  Since he is still a young man at the age of 44, I suspect that we 
will be hearing a lot more from John Sununu in the years to come.
  I wish him well in his future endeavors.
 Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, Maine and New Hampshire have much 
in common. When John Sununu came to the Senate six years ago, I 
immediately saw in him those traits shared by the people of our two 
States: a strong work ethic combined with a great sense of humor, 
traditional values balanced by a spirit of innovation, and fiscal 
prudence always tempered by compassion. He quickly became not only a 
valued colleague but also a trusted friend.
  John's extraordinary intellect, wisdom, and experience belied his 
young age and benefited this chamber and Nation. His upbringing in a 
family devoted to public service, his education in science, 
engineering, and business, and his experience in the House of 
Representatives made him a veteran from day one. His ability to analyze 
challenges and devise creative solutions made him an esteemed 
colleague.
  In the best tradition of the Senate, John brought his knowledge and 
experience to bear on some of the most pressing issues we face. In 
technology, he has been a leader committed to growth and advancement. 
He has been a devoted advocate for special education and rural health 
care. He has been a strong voice for our forest products industry and 
for a sound energy policy that would reduce our dangerous reliance on 
foreign oil.
  It has been an honor to work with him on the Homeland Security 
Committee. His diligence and commitment have helped make America safer. 
His tireless leadership to reform the Patriot Act demonstrated his 
unwavering commitment to safeguard the civil liberties Americans 
cherish.
  In addition to his leadership on national issues like the Patriot Act 
and tax policy, John has been an effective advocate for projects of 
special concern to New Hampshire, whether it is low-income heating 
assistance and weatherization programs or the Portsmouth Naval 
Shipyard. We recently worked closely together with our two colleagues 
to secure $20 billion for the shipyard's new dry dock to help secure 
its future.
  Above all, Senator John Sununu has distinguished himself as a 
champion of good government. He is an independent thinker who stands 
up--always--for what he believes to be right for New Hampshire and 
right for our country. He has a sharp eye for wasteful spending and is 
a resolute fighter for fiscal responsibility.
  It has been an honor to serve with John, and I wish him and his 
family all the best. I will miss serving with him day to day, but I 
know that he will continue to accomplish a great deal.


                             pete domenici

 Ms. SNOWE. Mr. President, I rise today to honor an undeniable, 
universally-acknowledged legend of the U.S. Senate, an outstanding 
public servant who has been a legislative master of this institution 
and its most labyrinthine but pivotal and influential procedures, and a 
U.S. Senator who, with passion and verve, brilliantly grasped the 
complex nuances of legislation without losing the broader perspective 
driving the national issues of the day. I am referring, of course, to 
the Senior Senator from New Mexico, Pete Domenici.

[[Page 24794]]

  In his 36 years serving the people of New Mexico in this venerable 
institution, Senator Domenici embraced and confronted the most 
difficult or consequential of matters regardless of opposition or the 
complexity of the subject. Indeed, Mr. President, as our country faces 
myriad challenges, it is with a heavy heart that we lose not only an 
exceptional colleague and friend to many of us, but one of the Senate's 
finest legislators.
  I had the distinct privilege of witnessing Pete Domenici's sterling 
leadership and political acumen firsthand when he chaired the Senate 
Committee on the Budget from 1995 to 2002 in three successive 
Congresses. Having been a member on the House Budget Committee, I can 
tell you that serving on the Senate Budget Committee during Pete's 
chairmanship represented a magnificent opportunity for a freshman 
Senator--not to mention the fact that Pete empathized with me as he had 
been offered a seat on the committee as a freshman Senator as well.
  Although Pete was quoted as saying that he joined the committee in 
1973 ``because it was available to me as a freshman, when other 
committees were not,'' history will show that the Senate Budget 
Committee, the U.S. Senate, and the country were all well-served 
because of Pete Domenici's undaunted command of the budget process and 
the esteem and respect with which he was held by his colleagues.
  As I joined the Senate Budget Committee in 1995 with Chairman 
Domenici at the helm, we worked hand-and-glove to reprioritize our 
Federal budget, instill greater fiscal discipline, and pass a balanced 
budget for the first time in 26 years. Success was going to require 
dedication and pragmatism or in Pete's words, ``guts.''
  I well recall standing on the floor of the Senate as we were debating 
the budget resolution, and, referencing Winston Churchill's famous 
remark, I said, ``I feel we finally have reached the `end of the 
beginning' of what I hope will eventually be known as the first seven-
year budget to reach a balance in over a generation.'' And the force 
behind that legislative and budgetary milestone was the Senator we 
honor today, Pete Domenici. The ramifications of our work on that 
budget resolution, along with our strong bipartisan 92 to 8 victory on 
the 1997 Balanced Budget Act, represent a historic template for how 
this institution tackles budgetary issues today and likely will in the 
future.
  However, what has resonated the most through the years--and what is 
certainly one of the crowning hallmarks of his monumental legacy--is 
how Pete reminded us that the Senate can indeed achieve resolution by 
bridging the partisan divide and forsaking polarizing acrimony in favor 
of substantive action advancing the public good.
  Senator Domenici brought this same constancy of purpose and tireless 
commitment to the common good to his advocacy for mental health parity 
in healthcare coverage. Vigorously working across the aisle with 
Senators Wellstone and Kennedy, Senator Domenici demonstrated that 
building bipartisan coalitions based on common objectives and good will 
were not only possible but fundamental to creating good policy.
  As Senator Domenici made his compelling case against the inequality 
of mental healthcare to the White House and to each Member of the 
Senate, his personal history with the disease was conveyed in a manner 
that could not have been more poignant and powerful. The story of 
Clare, Senator Domenici's daughter, mirrors that of millions of 
Americans afflicted with a mental health disorder, and Senator Domenici 
courageously recognized that he was uniquely positioned to help 
shepherd the message that health care coverage should not financially 
discriminate on the basis of this disease.
  Although Senator Wellstone characterized his partnership with Senator 
Domenici as, ``an odd couple,'' where their political philosophies 
diverged, there common allegiance to making a difference paved the way 
for enormous strides that engendered an effective bond. And with 
stately leadership, Senator Domenici and Senator Kennedy rallied the 
Senate, which at that point had mourned the tragic loss of Senator 
Wellstone, to action, passing the Mental Health Parity Act which the 
President signed into law. Once again, Mr. President, Senator Domenici 
confounded the status quo and fought for meaningful change.
  I believe we ought to have more, not fewer, ``odd couples'' and 
alliances in the Senate, given that compromise and conciliation are the 
true and necessary lifelines to achieving real results. To that end, my 
hope is that the Domenici-Wellstone-Kennedy example will constitute a 
model for generations to come of bipartisanship and comity. And I 
couldn't have been more pleased, having been a longtime leader on this 
issue myself, to work in accord with Senator Domenici in bringing this 
matter to fruition in the 110th Congress.
  Lastly, I cannot help but applaud Senator Domenici for his 
indispensable role in championing the 2005 Energy Policy Act. And while 
we had some differences on policy, once again, true to his relentless 
work ethic, his can-do optimism, and dogged determination, what was 
most conspicuously vital and on display was Senator Domenici's 
pragmatism in crafting this legislation.
  Advancing this measure required Senator Domenici to compromise with 
his own colleague from New Mexico, Senator Bingaman. Yet they sought, 
found, and maximized the common denominators that would, in the end, 
allow this bill to be signed into law. It stands as an enduring 
testament to Senator Domenici that the final energy bill in 2005 passed 
with 71 votes, and Congress took a serious step forward in addressing 
our energy crisis.
  Time and again, Senator Domenici has placed legislative performance 
above political posturing, and a desire for concrete results above the 
din of discord and rancor. And in the process, Senator Domenici leaves 
a formidable legacy of establishing the standard for facilitating the 
budget process, providing mental health parity for millions of 
Americans, and forging a critical first step toward altering the course 
of our long-dormant energy policy.
  For well more than three decades, this institution has been blessed 
to have among our ranks one of the giant legislators of his generation 
and our time, and we will miss you Pete and all you brought to the 
Senate, to public service, and to the people of New Mexico. As the son 
of Italian immigrants, who worked in your father's whole grocery 
business, and who would later become a minor baseball pitcher, math 
teacher, lawyer, and then a legendary Senator--you truly exemplify the 
very best of the American story and dream. To Nancy and the entire 
Domenici family, thank you for sharing Pete with us and our country. We 
are all the better for knowing him, working with him, and calling him 
our colleague and friend.


                              john warner

  Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to my good friend and 
colleague, a true giant of this institution, and a consummate public 
servant, the gentleman--and I use that term with every fiber of the 
true definition of the word--the gentleman from Virginia, Senator John 
Warner.
  Mr. President, in delivering these remarks, and most especially in 
considering Senator Warner's impending retirement from the Senate, I 
have chosen not to focus on the tremendous loss to this body that will 
occur with John's departure--though the dimension of that loss is 
indisputably monumental. Rather, I prefer to recall the incalculable 
contributions John has made to enhancing this institution since his 
arrival here nearly 30 years ago--and his unparalleled commitment to 
the state and the Nation he has served so honorably and so well.
  John and I both came to the Congress at the same time--albeit to 
different chambers. I had long been familiar with Senator Warner's 
outstanding reputation as a man of strength, character, knowledge and 
integrity from my days in the House. And it didn't take long for me to 
find out why when I joined him in the Senate.

[[Page 24795]]

  Among many memories is my service on the Senate Armed Services 
Committee as Chair of the Seapower Subcommittee under John's leadership 
as chairman--and the command and the focus and the vision that he 
brought to that critical panel. I can tell you, with his long service 
on the committee--and of course as a former Secretary of the Navy, 
there wasn't anyone who instilled greater confidence when it came to 
meeting the challenges of limited defense dollars and the reality of 
that post-Cold War period than John Warner.
  I certainly well recall that at a time when our foreign policy had 
quite frankly made our Navy into America's ``Emergency 9-1-1'' force, 
with a 331 percent increase in contingency operations at that time from 
the previous ten years, at a time when the branches of the services 
weren't meeting their recruitment goals and the Air Force and Navy were 
woefully short of pilots, at a time when China was continuing to make 
quantum leaps in military technology, Senator Warner's expertise and 
leadership didn't arrive a moment to soon.
  I remember an instance when he called our allies to account on 
Kosovo--when he saw that our European partners had deployed only 722 of 
the 1,264 policemen they had promised to provide as part of the Kosovo 
Police Force, he held them to their commitment. He exposed that 
inequity and thanks to his hand at the helm they began to change their 
course.
  From day one as chairman, Senator Warner was relentless in 
scrutinizing existing defense programs as well as articulating a vision 
for the future. And no where was that more in evidence--or more 
prescient, for that matter, than when he created the Emerging Threats 
Subcommittee, to address everything from cyberterrorism to terrorist 
threats here at home.
  Indeed, as I said at an event at the time, ``the fact is, since 
Soviet power has receded from the heart of Europe, the United States 
faces more regionally diverse and unpredictable challenges to its 
national security than ever before. And John knew we must be prepared 
to respond.'' Well, that was and is the John Warner I know--always 
looking ahead, always anticipating the next challenge, and always 
working to meet those challenges head on.
  And above all else, no one, no one, is more concerned about the 
welfare and well-being of our brave men and women in uniform than John 
Warner.
  Interestingly, Senator Warner was Undersecretary of the Navy while 
the late Senator John Chafee served as Secretary. And might I just say 
as an aside, what an extraordinary duo would come out of the Pentagon 
to subsequently serve side-by-side in the United States Senate. And 
like John Chafee, John Warner earned the unwavering respect of our 
military men and women because of his unflagging respect for each and 
every one of them.
  Certainly, Senator Warner has always had unlimited enthusiasm and 
commitment for the men and women of the Navy and Marine Corps. In fact, 
I understand that, in a time before there were elevators and escalators 
in the Pentagon, he was known for quite literally bounding up the steps 
``two by two'' in the mornings, and that he did so every morning to get 
to his office to serve the officers, sailors, and Marines for whom he 
cared so much.
  I am certain it is that very spirit that explains why he is so 
beloved by our members of the armed forces of the United States. I am 
certain it is also that spirit that's made him so beloved by members of 
this United States Senate.
  It's a spirit not only of ``can do'', but of ``must do''. It's an 
honor-bound dedication to the notion that we all have a sworn duty to 
our constitution and to our country to leave a better nation for having 
acted in our country's best interests.
  It's a quality we witnessed once again during historic debates on our 
course in our war in Iraq. Senator Warner consistently brought to bear 
his credibility, his gravitas, and his experience to elevate the 
Senate's deliberations and rise above the din of partisanship. What 
John Warner said on the matter of Iraq--or on any military issue of 
vital import--carried the weight of an intellect pledged solely to the 
concept and pursuit of doing what is right.
  And at no time was John's sense of the greater good more evident than 
in John's leadership in the so-called ``Gang of 14''--at a crossroads 
when the very institution of the Senate was caught in the cross-hairs 
of a struggle over judicial nominations. As we recall, at the time, the 
repeated, systemic filibuster of the President's nominees had been a 
corrosive force on the Senate. At the same time, the repeated, 
systematic filibuster of the President's nominees had been a corrosive 
force on the Senate. At the same time, exercising the so-called 
``nuclear option''--that would have jettisoned the traditional rules 
governing these nominations--would truly have had longstanding 
consequences for the future of the Senate.
  But we set aside partisan differences to help forge consensus to 
safeguard a body constituted to be neither a rubber stamp nor a 
personalized veto. Just when we were about to cross a political 
Rubicon, this watershed compromise embraced and preserved the essence 
of our Founding Fathers' vision to achieve results through 
accommodation--and embodied the best traditions of the Senate. And John 
Warner was instrumental in standing up and leading that charge--once 
again, lending the gravity of his standing in the Senate to advance 
that crucial cause.
  So when I think of John Warner, I think of an embodiment of what our 
forefathers quite likely had in mind when they envisioned a U.S. 
Senator. Someone who is learned, who is deliberative, who is 
compassionate, who is considered, who is experienced, who is reasoned 
and measured in approach--but who is most undeniably unafraid to act 
decisively when circumstances demand.
  That is the caliber of the man to whom this institution is about to 
bid farewell. And as we do so, I also cannot help but recall the proud 
tradition of extraordinary thinkers and leaders that the great 
Commonwealth of Virginia has produced over centuries--the ranks of 
which John Warner is most unquestionably fit to occupy. What a credit 
he has been to his State, what a legacy he contributes to Virginia, and 
certainly to America. The people of Virginia could not have asked for a 
more eloquent and powerful voice in the U.S. Senate--and it was a 
powerful voice not for the brashness of its volume or tone, but because 
of the credibility and thoughtfulness behind the words and thoughts 
that voice delivered.
  Quite simply, he is truly one of the best--deeply respected, highly 
regarded, a principled, independent-minded voice of reason. He is what 
we need more of in government. And he sets an example for us all.
  He has also been a great friend to me--as he has to so many of us. I 
will miss the firmness and sincerity of his warm ``hellos''. I will 
miss running into him in the hallways, on the Senate subway, on this 
floor. I will miss his institutional wisdom and depth and breadth on 
the issues. I will miss his kindness and comradery. And, I imagine, 
there are 98 others in this Chamber who feel likewise.
  So let me just say, farewell, John Warner. And while none of us want 
to see you go, there is certainly unanimous consent that--as you yield 
the floor for the final time--no one is more deserving of this time to 
now spend with your family, your friends, and with whatever personal 
pursuit you may choose--than you, John, as a public servant of so many 
years, a public servant of great accomplishment, and a public servant 
of such positive and indelible consequence to the Senate, and to 
America.
 Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, it has been one of my great 
honors to serve with one of the most distinguished Senators in our 
body, Senator John Warner of Virginia. A man of great wisdom, a man 
committed to the country that he has served for many decades in a host 
of important positions. John Warner has never failed his Nation. In 
addition to his knowledge and

[[Page 24796]]

 judgment which I so deeply respect and have so often followed, he is a 
true delight to be with and has the rare collegial skills to bring 
highly intelligent and committed Senators together for the common good. 
As chairman of the Armed Services Committee, as its ranking member and 
in the last 2 years as its de facto ranking member he has continued his 
record of superb service. We have gone through many difficult times and 
without his leadership I don't see how we could have worked our way 
through some of our Nation's great challenges.
  John Warner is a product of the heart of Virginia. Our affectionate 
title of ``squire'' reflects the recognition of his Virginia heritage 
and style. Among other good qualities no one is more delightful to 
travel with than John Warner. I cherish the opportunity to have 
listened to many of his stories both humorous and insightful. He is a 
walking student of American history. I urged him to seek reelection but 
he chose not to. He will be greatly missed. My best wishes go with him 
and his wife Jeanne.
 Mr. CHAMBLISS. I wish to speak of the retirement from the 
Senate of my friend Senator John Warner. Senator Warner is the 
quintessential Virginia Gentleman. He is gifted of speech, courteous, 
possesses courage and conviction, and is a defender of freedom and the 
Senator most committed to the protection of our men and women in 
uniform as well as their families. It has been my privilege to serve 
with Senator Warner on the Armed Services Committee. His leadership as 
Chairman was superb. His commitment to protecting America and Americans 
is unparalleled.
  From his days in the U.S. Navy to his years as Secretary of the Navy 
to his years in the U.S. Senate, John Warner has provided the kind of 
service and leadership that Virginians and Americans appreciate and 
respect.
  I will miss John Warner but certainly wish him and Jeanne Godspeed as 
they continue life's journey.


                              Ted Stevens

 Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, it is always a bittersweet moment as 
the clock winds down on the last minutes of the current session of 
Congress and we start to pack up and get ready to head home for the 
holidays. As we do, it's always good to take a moment to reflect on all 
we have accomplished over the past 2 years and those special Senators 
who did a lot of the heavy lifting who will be returning home at the 
end of the year. That is when we begin to realize just how much they 
will be missed. Such a Senator is Ted Stevens.
  As Ted leaves Washington for his beloved Alaska, he will long be 
remembered for a long list of achievements in the Senate. The fact that 
he is the Senate's longest serving Republican is no accident. It came 
abut because Ted always had one foot in Washington and the other in his 
home State of Alaska. He was always heading back home whenever it was 
possible to keep in touch with the people of his State and let them 
know what he was doing on their behalf in Washington.
  Ted has an affection for super heroes and that is no surprise because 
Ted is one. He may not be able to leap tall buildings in a single 
bound, but he was able to make sure that the needs of his constituents 
were heard and addressed unlike any other Senator for his entire Senate 
career. The people of Alaska watched Ted hard at work in Washington and 
they liked what they saw. It isn't any wonder that the folks back home 
call him not Senator Stevens but Uncle Ted.
  When Ted returns home, Alaska will have lost a powerful force in the 
Senate. He is not only his State's greatest fighter, but he is also 
Alaska's best ambassador. He loves his State and he loves showing it 
off whenever he can. Many of us have had a chance to enjoy a wonderful 
dose of his special brand of Alaskan hospitality when we have had a 
chance to take a trip to visit that remarkable land up north.
  I love fishing and hunting and all the activities that are possible 
in the great outdoors. So, for me, it was a special pleasure to be in 
Alaska and have a chance to take part in Ted's Kenai Tournament. Alaska 
is a magical place and the fishing and the scenery there is second only 
to Wyoming. More importantly, the Kenai Tournament is more than a 
social occasion or a chance to get in some great fishing during a 
break. It has a much more important purpose. The tournament was created 
to help raise the funds that are needed to restore and improve the 
habitat of the salmon in Alaska and over the years it has done a 
remarkable job of both protecting and helping to promote the wonders of 
his home State.
  It might surprise some people to learn how much Ted loves the 
environment of his State and how concerned he is that it continues to 
be preserved for future generations to enjoy. It's a cause that Ted has 
worked on as he dealt with all of us in working to pass bills that 
would help to keep Alaska's great outdoors open and available to all 
those who love to hike, fish, hunt or just stand back and admire the 
scenery. Like me, Ted knows that our national treasures should be 
maintained not by excessive and intrusive regulation, but through the 
efforts of good stewards of the land who understand its value and its 
importance to our future as a nation.
  For almost 40 years, whenever it came to fighting for Alaska's best 
interests on the Senate floor, or promoting the treasures of Alaska at 
home or here in Washington or anywhere in between, Ted Stevens has been 
the voice of Alaska. Whenever an issue was brought up in the Senate 
that affected his State, we all knew immediately to find out what Ted 
thinks. He always knew what would be best for Alaska and when he spoke, 
we all stopped to listen.
  Alaska is perhaps best known for its towering spectacular and 
imposing mountains that seem to rise dramatically right out of the 
ocean. It is the perfect backdrop for Ted Stevens who is a man to match 
their mountains. Ted is a landmark of service and he has achieved a 
mountain of results for the people of his State.
  As I have come to know Ted I have become very aware of the truth of 
the old adage that it isn't the number of years in your life that 
determines who you are, it is the amount of life in your years. For his 
entire Senate career, Ted has kept up an incredible pace and he has the 
results to show for it. He just celebrated his birthday and I can say 
that he is a very young 85 years of age.
  He won't mind my mentioning his age. He's proud of it. He's earned 
every year of it and he certainly hasn't been taking it easy. At a time 
in his life when most people his age are sitting back and relaxing, Ted 
has been fighting here in Washington to protect their benefits, keep 
their taxes under control, and reduce Federal spending so that they 
could have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that things are in 
good hands--Ted's hands.
  Ted and I get along so well because in a lot of ways, Wyoming is a 
lot like Alaska, and that often puts Ted and me on the same side on a 
lot of issues. We both understand the needs of rural America, and we 
both know how important it is to see that those needs are met.
  His determination to serve the people back home was most evident when 
he took aim at keeping universal phone service in operation. He knew 
how important phone service is to people, especially those in isolated 
areas. For them, a phone is more than just an instrument they can use 
to keep in touch with others. For those in remote regions, a phone is 
their lifeline. It helps to provide them with the peace of mind that 
comes from knowing they can place a call and report an emergency 
whenever they are facing a life threatening emergency. For them and for 
all Alaskans, there was never any substitute for knowing that the 
Senator who speaks for you, understands your life and your needs and 
Ted has been the one to do that--ever since he first came to 
Washington.
  It will be tough to say goodbye to Ted when he leaves Washington 
because I will miss having him riding shotgun as we go to work on those 
issues that are going to make a difference in the lives of the people 
of our states. As we say in Wyoming, Ted is a

[[Page 24797]]

guy who walks the walk and doesn't just talk the talk. He says what he 
means and he means what he says. You know just where you stand when you 
deal with Ted and he has never been one to back down from a fight in 
committee or on the Floor.
  In the years to come, whenever I think of Ted I will remember him as 
a man of action who knew it was more important to get things done than 
to talk about doing things. He was always quick to put his words into 
action and get results. He has a wealth of knowledge about how to get 
things done in the Senate--and done right. When it comes to being an 
effective Senator, Ted could have written the book on it.
  I won't say goodbye, Ted, I will just say we'll see you around town. 
I have no doubt that we will keep in touch with you and I am sure you 
will keep in touch with us--whenever something comes up in the Senate 
that we need to fine tune to make sure it treats Alaskans just right. 
Thanks for all you have done for me, for the West, for Alaska and for 
this Nation. Thanks most of all for your friendship. That is something 
I will always treasure most of all.
 Mrs. HUTCHISON. Mr. President, I wish to speak about my great 
friend, Senator Ted Stevens of Alaska, who has served in the U.S. 
Senate for 40 years and is the longest-serving Republican Senator in 
history.
  On a personal note, I have always enjoyed working with Senator 
Stevens, and it has been a true privilege to collaborate with him on 
some of the most important issues facing our great Nation--including 
energy, health care, and national defense.
  Senator Stevens' service to the United States didn't begin when he 
stepped inside this Chamber. Rather, his service began decades 
earlier--during some of the most harrowing days of World War II.
  Senator Stevens was part of the Greatest Generation who fought and 
won that global struggle for freedom--flying a C-47 in the China-Burma-
India theater.
  Incredibly, over 1,000 of Senator Stevens' fellow airmen died 
``flying the hump'' and elsewhere in the China-Burma-India theater--a 
sobering reminder of the high price of freedom.
  For his heroic efforts, Senator Stevens later received two 
Distinguished Flying Crosses and two Air Medals, as well as the Yuan 
Hai medal awarded by the Republic of China.
  After the war, Senator Stevens completed his education at UCLA and 
Harvard Law School, and then moved to Alaska, which was then a U.S. 
territory.
  In the city of Fairbanks, Senator Stevens practiced law for several 
years, until he came to Washington, DC to serve in the Eisenhower 
administration, and also to lobby for Alaska's admittance into the 
Union--a mission that succeeded in 1959.
  When Senator Stevens returned to Alaska, he ran for--and won--a seat 
in the Alaska House of Representatives, and later became House Majority 
Leader.
  Then, in December 1968, Governor Walter J. Hickel appointed him to 
fill a vacancy in the U.S. Senate.
  In 1970, the voters of Alaska ratified that choice by electing 
Senator Stevens to finish that term in a special election, and then re-
electing him six more times, always by overwhelming margins.
  Senator Stevens' achievements are legendary in this Chamber--
including (but not limited to) Chairman of the Senate Rules Committee, 
Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and President pro 
tempore of the U.S. Senate--putting him third in line for the 
Presidency from January 2003 to January 2007.
  For his many decades of service, Senator Stevens has received and 
accepted numerous honors--including having the Anchorage International 
Airport named after him.
  Our entire country has been enriched and improved by his hard work, 
dedication, and leadership.
  I say this, not as a distant observer, but as an up-close witness to 
his achievements.
  Back in 1993, when I first arrived in the U.S. Senate, I was one of 
only seven female Senators, and if the Senate was a men's club, then 
the Appropriations Committee was its inner sanctum.
  There was not a single woman on the Defense Appropriations 
Subcommittee, but that's where I wanted to serve.
  I explained to Senator Stevens--who was then the ranking member of 
the committee--that Texas has more Army soldiers than any other State, 
more Air Force Airmen and women stationed in Texas than any other 
State, and our defense industry builds everything from fighter aircraft 
to Army trucks to artillery systems to sophisticated electronics 
equipment for the Pentagon.
  Therefore, it was absolutely essential that a Senator from Texas 
serve on that committee.
  After some careful thought, Senator Stevens agreed and welcomed me to 
the committee. And since that time, he has been a valuable mentor to 
me--not to mention a passionate advocate for Alaska and America.
  And when I say passion, I really do mean passion.
  Senator Stevens has been known to show dramatic performances on the 
Senate floor, keeping wandering eyes focused on the urgent issues that 
need to be addressed.
  One day, during a mark-up in the Senate Appropriations Committee, 
Senator Stevens, who chaired the committee at the time, grew very 
animated and laid down the law.
  When a frustrated senior Senator told Senator Stevens that ``there 
was no reason to lose your temper,'' Senator Stevens glared back and 
responded, ``I never lose my temper. I always know exactly where I left 
it.''
  But if Senator Stevens has a temper, he also has a compassionate 
heart.
  I will never forget when a group of protestors gathered outside of 
the Appropriations Committee conference to demand increased funding for 
breast cancer research.
  One particularly agitated advocate got in Senator Stevens' face and 
said, ``If men were dying of breast cancer, you wouldn't think twice 
about increasing the funding.''
  Needless to say, those words made quite an impact on Senator Stevens, 
but probably not what this advocate anticipated.
  When Senator Stevens walked back into the conference, he repeated the 
charge and then looked around at his mostly male colleagues.
  He knew that at least six of them suffered from prostate cancer.
  He also noticed that the bill they were considering didn't fund 
prostate cancer research.
  But thanks to the excellent suggestion of the woman in the hallway, 
he was going to advocate breast cancer research and prostate cancer 
research. Senator Stevens was determined to become a leader on these 
issues, and over time, that is certainly what he's become.
  I congratulate Senator Stevens on all that he's accomplished for 
Alaska and America, and I wish him well in his retirement.


                              CHUCK HAGEL

 Ms. SNOWE. Mr. President, I rise to express my enormous 
gratitude and deep appreciation to my good friend and colleague, 
Senator Chuck Hagel, for his 12 years of sterling leadership and 
steadfast service in the U.S. Senate.
  A man of deep-seated principle, honor, conscience, and conviction, 
Senator Hagel has been a stalwart legislator and an unwavering guardian 
of the first branch of government during his remarkable two-term tenure 
in the Senate. And, having served with Chuck side-by-side for that 
entire period--including, in the 107th Congress on the Senate Committee 
on the Budget, and subsequently for the remaining three Congresses on 
the Senate Committee on Intelligence--I can attest firsthand to the 
tremendous intellect, independence, and integrity that he has brought 
to his office and to some of the most consequential debates of our 
time.
  Anyone familiar with Senator Hagel's background will notice readily 
how a fourth generation Nebraskan steeped in the time-honored 
traditions and mores of the heartland was well-equipped with the 
bedrock character and unshakable foundation necessary

[[Page 24798]]

to reach the highest heights in both the public and private sector. 
Whether serving as President Reagan's Deputy Administrator of the 
Veterans' Administration, demonstrating keen entrepreneurial acumen as 
an early leader in the cellphone industry, heading the World USO, or 
eventually running successfully for the U.S. Senate from Nebraska, the 
common denominator, time and again, pervading Senator Hagel's life--and 
what has shaped his renowned trajectory of accomplishment in every 
undertaking he has pursued--has been his unwavering love for his 
country and abiding faith in its founding principles.
  Nowhere was Senator Hagel's devotion to our Nation more paramount 
than when his country called on him to serve in Vietnam, where he and 
his brother Tom, having bravely enlisted together, fought shoulder-to-
shoulder as infantry squad leaders with the U.S. Army's 9th Infantry 
Division. Both displayed enormous heroism on the field of battle and 
were decorated soldiers, with Chuck earning two Purple Hearts.
  As you can imagine, it has been a privilege over these past 12 years 
to witness the courage and candor of this American hero and esteemed 
colleague, whether on measures addressing war, specifically in Iraq, or 
matters concerning the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, FISA. 
Senator Hagel was indeed my compatriot and ideological soul mate on the 
Senate Intelligence Committee. If you must go into battle whether in 
war or in politics, you want to engage your opponents with someone of 
Chuck Hagel's mettle and fortitude.
  A true conservative who believes in limited government--and that the 
diffusion of power and authority are the surest check against despotism 
and the best hope for democracy--Senator Hagel has demonstrated a 
visceral and unending passion for this institution and for the 
possibilities of effective governance by people of good will. And 
Senator Hagel crystallized this deeply held belief in his farewell 
speech on the floor of the Senate when he emphasized to his colleagues 
that . . .

       Article I of the constitution is about the Congress. We are 
     a co-equal branch of government. And if anything I've learned 
     in the 12 years I've been here is the importance of sharing, 
     participating in the governance of our country, being part of 
     that governance, helping make decisions with the president 
     and the executive.

  Finally, as a Mainer, I must say how fitting it was that a few years 
ago Senator Hagel was recognized as one of the esteemed recipients of 
The Edmund S. Muskie Distinguished Public Service Award. Senator Hagel 
exemplifies the best of the Muskie tradition which was built upon 
certain irrefutable, sterling standards for high intellect, 
unassailable integrity, and a lifetime of legendary service.
  To his wife Lilibet and their daughter Allyn and son Ziller, thank 
you for sharing your husband and your father with us for these 12 
years. And to Chuck, we will miss your voice and your vision. By your 
words and in your deeds, you bring to mind the Greek playwright and 
poet, Aeschylus, who wrote that ``his resolve is not to seem the 
bravest, but to be.'' You have been a brave steward of the public 
trust, and we are forever thankful.


                              Wayne Allard

 Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, one of the great privileges of my 
tenure in the Senate has been to serve with my colleague Wayne Allard 
from Colorado.
  He and his wonderful wife and partner Joan have contributed greatly 
to the life of the Senate. Wayne has been a leading advocate for a 
strong space and missile defense program, an important issue when he 
chaired the Strategic Subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on the 
Armed Services. I was honored to follow him in that position when he 
moved to the prestigious Appropriations Committee.
  Wayne has also been a firm and consistent voice for a sound economic 
policy based on the free market, lower taxes, free trade, and restraint 
in spending. Day after day--year after year--he never wavered in those 
principles.
  I deeply regret that Wayne took a pledge to not seek a third term in 
the Senate. His unqualified commitment to principle will be sorely 
missed. Wayne is a man of integrity, and he never hesitated to keep the 
promise he made to the voters of Colorado.
  Wayne and I came to the Senate together. We have been good friends 
throughout our time here. We have stood together in the Armed Services 
Committee in support of our men and women in uniform. We were thrilled 
to see the child tax credit become law, providing relief to hard-
working American families. We witnessed many other important pieces of 
legislation be enacted into law. And we were able to stop quite a few 
bad pieces also.
  Mary and I send our best and most sincere wishes to Wayne and Joan. I 
know that he will continue to contribute to the good of Colorado and to 
the Nation.

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