[nfb-talk] From President Barack Obama:

[Kenneth Chrane]

Kenneth --

Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our 
dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy.

For nearly five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation to 
advance the civil rights, health and economic well-being of the American 
people bore his name and resulted from his efforts.

His ideas and ideals are stamped on scores of laws and reflected in millions 
of lives -- in seniors who know new dignity; in families that know new 
opportunity; in children who know education's promise; and in all who can 
pursue their dream in an America that is more equal and more just, including 
me.

In the United States Senate, I can think of no one who engendered greater 
respect or affection from members of both sides of the aisle. His 
seriousness of purpose was perpetually matched by humility, warmth and good 
cheer. He battled passionately on the Senate floor for the causes that he 
held dear, and yet still maintained warm friendships across party lines. And 
that's one reason he became not only one of the greatest senators of our 
time, but one of the most accomplished Americans ever to serve our 
democracy.

I personally valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the 
swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his 
confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And even as 
he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've benefited as 
President from his encouragement and wisdom.

His fight gave us the opportunity we were denied when his brothers John and 
Robert were taken from us: the blessing of time to say thank you and 
goodbye. The outpouring of love, gratitude and fond memories to which we've 
all borne witness is a testament to the way this singular figure in American 
history touched so many lives.

For America, he was a defender of a dream. For his family, he was a 
guardian. Our hearts and prayers go out to them today -- to his wonderful 
wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and 
his extended family.

Today, our country mourns. We say goodbye to a friend and a true leader who 
challenged us all to live out our noblest values. And we give thanks for his 
memory, which inspires us still.

Sincerely,

President Barack Obama