December 8, 2021 - News
While we continue to process the profound loss of Senator Robert J. Dole, we are heartened by the outpouring of kindness and compassion by his supporters across Kansas, the nation, and the world.
To celebrate and honor his life and legacy, several remembrance events are set to take place in Russell and Topeka, Kansas, on Saturday, December 11, and we invite you to attend the public events as you are able.
In addition to the Kansas-based events, the Dole Institute of Politics will display a live broadcast of the Washington D.C. remembrance ceremonies on Thursday, December 9, and Friday, December 10.
Thursday, December 9
Senator Robert J. Dole Lies in State at U.S. Capitol
Coverage begins at 9 a.m. CST
Senator Dole will lie in state in the United States Capitol Rotunda on Thursday, December 9. Please join us at the Dole Institute for a virtual viewing of the private ceremony that will take place featuring President Joe Biden, Congressional leadership, Senator Elizabeth Dole, and Robin Dole.
Friday, December 10
Memorial Service at Washington National Cathedral & Robert J. Dole Celebration of Life at World War II Memorial
Coverage begins at 10 a.m. CST
Join us here at the Dole Institute at 10 a.m. to watch the live memorial service at Washington National Cathedral where President Biden will join national leaders and Senator Dole’s family members and close friends for a private memorial service.
Following the Memorial Service, Senator Dole’s casket will pause at the World War II Memorial on the National Mall for a public ceremony honoring his life and military service. Following the funeral, the U.S. Army Band will perform. The program will feature remarks from Gen. Mark A. Milley, Tom Hanks, and Savannah Guthrie will commence. Senator Elizabeth Dole will lay a wreath in her husband’s honor.
Saturday, December 11
Russell Memorial Service
On Saturday, December 11, 9-10:30 a.m., a public viewing will be held at St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell, Kansas. A service will be held at 11:00 a.m., with tribute remarks from Senators Pat Roberts, Jerry Moran, and Roger Marshall. The public will be invited to pass by the Senator’s casket following the service to pay their respects. At 1 p.m., Senator Dole’s casket will depart.
Saturday, December 11
Kansas State Capitol Service and Lying in Repose
On Saturday, December 11, at 4 p.m., Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and a delegation of Kansas officials will receive Senator Dole’s casket at the Kansas State Capitol. Kansas ROTC cadets will provide an honor cordon as the Kansas National Guard Casket Team carries the Senator’s casket to its position of repose on the second level. A public ceremony will take place in the Capitol Rotunda and will include remarks by Governor Kelly; Senators Roger Marshall, Jerry Moran, Nancy Kassebaum Baker; and former Congressman James Slattery. After the service, Senator Dole’s casket and family will return to Washington, D.C. Senator Dole’s internment details are forthcoming.
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