MR. AKAKA. Mr. President, I am deeply saddened at the passing of my dear friend, Wyoming's senior member, Senator Craig Thomas. We have lost a truly dear and courageous member of this body, whose absence will be felt. I had the pleasure of serving with Senator Thomas for many years, both in the United States House of Representatives, and here in the Senate since his election in 1994. I found him to be a true statesman, of great character, with a passion for serving others.

He grew up on a ranch in Cody, Wyoming, and never forgot his roots, as he continuously advocated for rural communities and our natural resources. He graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in agriculture, and served our country proudly for four years in the Marines.

During his tenure in Congress, he forged a distinguished legislative record on issues as diverse as public land management, agriculture, fiscal responsibility and rural health care. It was a great pleasure and honor to serve with Senator Thomas on the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks, both when he was Chairman and I was the Ranking Member, and most recently, when our roles were reversed this Congress. Working with Senator Thomas was a joy and privilege due to his positive and optimistic attitude. We were able to accomplish many notable things during our tenure together, as we always worked in a bipartisan manner, putting the needs and challenges of the parks and public lands before all else.

I also had the privilege of working with Senator Thomas on the Indian Affairs Committee. As the Ranking Member of the Committee, he took seriously his responsibility to address the needs of our country's indigenous people. Knowing of the challenges faced by our native communities throughout the country, he worked tirelessly to improve their quality of life.

I extend my heartfelt condolences and deepest aloha to Senator Thomas's wife, Susan, and their four children. They should be proud that he lived a full and purposeful life, and had a positive impact on the lives of so many. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers and support are with them as they walk down this difficult path.

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