Special to The News

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, discussed the extraordinary life and legacy of President George H.W. Bush following his passing. Excerpts of Cornyn’s floor remarks are below:

“To his country, he was a devoted public servant who fought to defend our freedoms and led the nation at the end of the Cold War and at the fall of the Berlin Wall.”

“You could say he was an anchor for our country during tumultuous times; steady and strong. And while he was a fierce defender of his principles and ideals, he was sometimes seen as a quiet soldier.”

“Both a good man and a great leader, but I think he showed us you could be both.”

“Through all he did, his compassion, his love of country, and basic humanity and strong optimism shown through.”

“Afterwards, he could have moved anywhere in the world, but he chose to live his life in Texas, and in the warm embrace of the state and the people he loved. President Bush felt a kindred spirit at Texas A&M University, choosing it first to bear his legacy through his presidential library and a graduate school of government and public service, and then later to be his and Barbara Bush’s final resting place. President Bush, I think, identified with the university’s unique culture, including its inculcation of patriotic values and the emphasis it places on hard work and public service. President Bush taught us all that there’s nothing more powerful in life than the power of a good example, and he challenged all of us, and he still does, by the standards he set for himself.”

“Joined by my colleague from Texas, Senator Cruz, today we’ve introduced a resolution recognizing the nearly thirty years of public service President Bush devoted to our state and our nation.”

“President Bush is in the nation’s capital one last time where many have and will continue to have the opportunity to pay their respects and give their thanks for his extraordinary life.”

“He finished the race. And he kept the faith.”

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, is a member of the Senate Finance, Intelligence and Judiciary committees.