He served his country for many years
The police were out in force as dignitaries arrived
There was a huge police presence in downtown Las Vegas on Saturday, January 8, 2022. There were lines of motorcycle police as well as police cars with their lights flashing. It was not unlike the familiar sights in Washington, D.C. of police escorts for the big, black SUV's which regularly transported dignitaries and political leaders.
Senator Harry Reid of Nevada had died at the age of 82. An invitation only memorial service was being held to honor him. Senator Reid had served for many years in the halls of Congress. He retired in 2016 and died after suffering from cancer.
The police presence in Las Vegas on that day was accompanying some of the highest officials of the country. Present to speak or participate at the service were many dignitaries, not the least of whom were President Joe Biden, Former President Barack Obama, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader, Chuck Schumer.
Jeff Mason reported for Reuters, “Biden, Obama laud former Senator Harry Reid at Nevada memorial service.” He wrote:
U.S. political luminaries including President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama celebrated the life of former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid on Saturday, describing him as an unpretentious pragmatist who got things done.
Reid died last month at age 82 after battling pancreatic cancer.
House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer also paid tribute to Reid at the Nevada memorial service, which featured remarks from Reid’s family members and music from singer-songwriter Carole King.
Reid helped secure congressional passage of Obama’s signature healthcare law in 2010 over sharp opposition from Republicans, and the former president said he could not have asked for a better friend.
Senator Reid was first elected to the U.S. House in 1982 and was sent to the U.S. Senate by Nevada voters in 1986. He retired in 2016, having held the highest political position of anyone who was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a Democrat, Senator Reid was in a unique position.
Elder M. Russell Ballard, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also spoke at the service.
It was a chance for family, friends, and political leaders to pay homage to a great leader who served his country well for decades.
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