text: This is kennedy statement about to go out. Will be joint from u and wjc.Senator Ted Kennedy was one of the most important and influential leaders of our time whose five decades as Senatorfrom Massachusetts helped to shape America's history and chart our shared future. During our time in the WhiteHouse we were thankful for his fierce advocacy and support for universal health care and his work to provide healthcoverage to low-income children. Without his tireless efforts America would not be as close to achieving health carereform as we are today.Continuing the legacy left by his older brothers his lifelong pursuit of civil rights and justice forall moved America forward to form a more perfect union. But beyond his death his legacy of public service will live on inmillions of young people across our nation who now have the chance to serve through the Edward M. Kennedy ServeAmerica Act which will expand AmeriCorps and other youth service opportunities. He loved his country his wife Vickiand his incredible children and grandchildren. We are proud to have known him worked alongside him and called himour friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the people of Massachusetts during this difficult time.