2004 Sylvanus Thayer Award
CITATION

ROBERT J. DOLE

A statesman of great distinction, Robert J. Dole has made a lifetime of remarkable contributions to the Nation and its citizens. His reliance on time-honored values, which is manifest in both word and deed, has characterized every facet of his life. He is a living exemplification of the ideals expressed in West Point´s motto – Duty, Honor, Country.

Even before Bob Dole entered in his career of public service, he had shown his bravery and strength of character in World War II combat. His heroic attempt to rescue a downed soldier earned him the Bronze Star, along with two Purple Hearts for the savage wounds that he sustained, and he courageously endured the painful recovery and rehabilitation process that followed for over three years.

As an elected official, he placed the concerns of his fellow citizens and the vitality of the Nation at the forefront of his own concerns for over four decades. Serving at the state level, in the United States Congress, and the United States Senate, he compiled an unmatched record of achievements. And he continued his selfless service once he had retired from public office by tirelessly devoting himself to a wide array of worthy causes.

The superb accomplishments of this son of the Midwest and benefactor of the entire Nation have been both wise in their aims and positive in their effects, earning him a prominent place in the annals of American history. Accordingly, the Association of Graduates is both pleased and honored to present the 2004 West Point Sylvanus Thayer Award to Robert J. Dole.