"His number one priority has always been the people of West Virginia.  It has been a great example for all of us to never lose sight of the fact that you are elected by the people from your State and the people in your State should have first priority."

Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid

"Bob Byrd personifies what our Founding Fathers were thinking about when they were thinking about a United States Senate.  He brings the kind of qualities that the Founding Fathers believed were so important for service to the Nation."

Senator Edward M. Kennedy

"The final chapter in Robert Byrd's history is not likely to be written for some time, yet it is safe to say that he has set a standard as a Senator, as a legislative leader, and as a statesman that will stand among the best as long as there is a Senate."

Former Senate Republican Leader Bob Dole

"Robert Byrd is already recognized as an American icon.  Without question, when history is written, Senator Byrd will hold a prominent place as a Senate legend."

Former Senate Republican Leader Bill Frist

"Robert C. Byrd is truly a legend in his own time.  He stands larger than life, not only for his accomplishments, but also for his principles."

"There are still those people, like Senator Byrd, who exemplify the qualities of leadership strong personal character and a sense of virtues and principles  that inspire others to greatness."

"When future historians are writing about the 20th century Senate, Senator Robert Byrd will surely be remembers as one of the giants who followed in the footsteps of Henry Clay and Daniel Webster."

Former Senator and Alaska Governor Frank Murkowski

"It has been said that great men are like eagles.  They do not flock together.  You find them one at a time, soaring alone, using their skill and their strengths to reach new heights and to seek new horizons.  Such a man and such an eagle is Robert Byrd."