Roberts, Jenkins celebrate president signing bill to award congressional award to Dole

Kansas Republicans U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts and Rep. Lynn Jenkins successfully spearheaded legislation to award Bob Dole – the former U.S. senator from Kansas, World War II hero and humanitarian – the Congressional Gold Medal.

President Donald Trump signed their bill into law on Friday, after the measure drew overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress.

The legislation that became law stated that Dole’s award of the Congressional Gold Medal would be authorized in “recognition for his service to the nation as a soldier, legislator and statesman.” The highest civilian honor given by Congress, the Congressional Gold Medal is an expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions.

“I cannot think of anyone more deserving of one of our nation’s highest honors than Bob Dole,” Roberts said. “Bob is a true American hero who has dedicated his life to serving our nation and the great state of Kansas.

Jenkins called the award a “much overdue honor.”

“Senator Dole has spent his life serving the state of Kansas and our country – helping veterans and combatting child hunger and poverty. I am pleased the president quickly approved this legislation, and I look forward to the presentation of this elite award in the near future,” Jenkins said.

Dole, who set the record as the nation’s longest-serving Republican leader in the Senate, has worked over the years to encourage bipartisanship in Congress.

Dole has won numerous awards for his achievements both inside and outside of politics.
President Ronald Reagan awarded Dole the Presidential Citizens Medal in 1989 for his hard work and leadership in the public sector, followed by President Bill Clinton awarding Dole the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1997.

In addition, Dole has been a lifelong advocate for the disabled and veterans, and has fought to help end child hunger.