NOTE:  The following is a
first-person statement from
Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay (D) Missouri
 
"This is a proud day for America.  I want to congratulate President Obama on this remarkable recognition of his bold and brave leadership.  The President has restored American credibility around the world.  His vision of a more peaceful planet and his personal commitment to strive for human rights and justice for all people is in keeping with the best traditions of other great American leaders who have shared this special honor.  With this award, the President now joins the ranks of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., President Jimmy Carter, President Theodore Roosevelt and President Woodrow Wilson.  I am very proud of my friend, and I am very proud for our country.”