Former Sen. Bob Dole was honored with the Congressional Gold Medal on Wednesday in Washington, D.C.
The ceremony on Jan. 17 recognizing Dole as a soldier, legislator and statesman was in the U.S. Capitol rotunda, with congressional leaders, President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence attending.
Dole, 94, began his political career as a state representative in 1950. He was elected a U.S. representative from Kansas in 1960. He served as a U.S. senator from Kansas from 1968 through 1996, and was the Republican nominee for president in 1996. Dole also was Gerald Ford’s vice presidential running mate in 1976. Dole also was chair of the Republican National Committee from 1971 to 1973 and Senate Majority Leader from 1995 to 1996.
Wounded while serving in the U.S. Army in a battle during World War II, Dole received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. He underwent a lengthy medical recovery process. He is a native of Russell, Kansas, who has a law degree from Washburn University, Topeka. Dole had played basketball and football for the University of Kansas, but his education there was ended by World War II.
“The fact that we are here today is a testament to you personally, to your leadership in Congress, to your statesmanship and perseverance in bringing us the World War II memorial and to your heroism and sacrifice on the battlefield,” said U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kansas, in remarks at the event. “Your leadership on so many laws that have improved the lives of all Americans – and the memorials forever etched in stone – will also remind America of you, the boy from Russell, Kansas and your enduring love of our country.”
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, stated, “I firmly believe that a single person can make a difference, and that we change the world one person at a time. This is the mission of public service. No one is a better example of this than my friend and mentor, Senator Bob Dole. His integrity, thoughtfulness and statesmanship serving Kansans have made not only our state but also the world a better place.”