Mr. President, I wish to join my colleagues in offering my congratulations to my friend and colleague, Hawaii's senior senator and statesman, Dan Inouye, as he marks his 15,036th day of service in the Senate and becomes the fifth-longest-serving-senator in the history of our Republic.

I am proud to serve alongside a true patriot and American hero, and to offer a few words recognizing his many contributions and commitment to public service. The people of Hawaii and our great nation appreciate the leadership and direction he has provided, leadership which has bettered and strengthened our country. The scope of his contributions is matched only by his continued strong and effective leadership on behalf of our state, on behalf of our men and women in uniform, on behalf of Native Americans, and on so many other matters, in the Senate.

I am certain I speak for all the people of Hawaii when I say thank you Dan Inouye, son of Hawaii, for over four decades of exemplary service and commitment to our state and our nation. We are very proud of our senior senator. Thank you, Mr. President.