February 26, 1971
Page 4117
THE DEATH OF SENATOR RICHARD B. RUSSELL
Mr. MUSKIE. Mr. President, Richard B. Russell was a man for trusting. He was courteous. He was considerate. He expected the best from his colleagues and he gave the best of himself. But above all, he was a man we could trust.
We knew he listened to us, considered our views, and responded honestly with intelligence and wisdom. He earned the confidence and affection of his colleagues, and spanned the differences of age, region, and political philosophy. His character won friends. It won respect. It won influence, and it earned good will and understanding for Georgia and the South.
Senator Russell's presence reminded two generations of Senators that the confrontation of ideas need not fuel ill-will. He demonstrated that honorable men can hold honest disagreement without questioning the motives and integrity of another.
These are the qualities that make cooperation and progress possible in a free society. These are the qualities which made Richard B. Russell a great American and great Senator.
In common with so many of my colleagues, I recall my personal relations with Senator Russell.
He was unfailingly kind, courteous, and understanding. I shall miss him as a friend and remember my associations with him as one of the privileges and highlights of my Senate career.