U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., reports that she and several other Democratic members of Missouri’s congressional delegation gathered today to mark the late President Harry S Truman’s birthday in the room that changed his life.

 As McCaskill reports:

“On the night of April 12, 1945, as Harry Truman walked through the Capitol, a phone rang in the ‘Board of Education’ room, the hideaway office of his old friend Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn.

“Vice President Truman had recessed the Senate early that day and was headed to have a drink and talk shop with Rayburn and his other congressional buddies. However, when Truman arrived, he was handed the phone and the president’s press secretary instructed him to come to the White House immediately. 

“There he would be informed that (Franklin Delano) Roosevelt had died.  Later that evening, he took the oath of office, becoming the 33rd President of the United States. (Read More)

To celebrate Truman’s 124th birthday, McCaskill “attended a luncheon with Truman’s biggest fan club, the Democratic members of the Missouri delegation.

“The lunch was hosted by fellow Missourian Congressman Ike Skelton in the ‘Board of Education’ room in the Capitol, and was attended by Senator McCaskill, along with Congressmen Russ Carnahan and Emanuel Cleaver II. Unfortunately Congressman Lacy Clay, Jr. was unable to attend due to a prior commitment.

“They celebrated Truman’s birthday by discussing politics and events of the day, which was a favorite activity of the former president, as well as telling stories and recapping the history surrounding the room and Truman’s days in Washington

Added McCaskill: “Since I arrived in Washington, I have been humbled when I look at my surroundings and think of the incredible leaders who have walked these hallowed halls before me. It’s simply breathtaking to think of how much history surrounds this place. Celebrating that history today in the spirit of such a great man was very special and we all look forward to doing this each year…

“Even 35 years after his death, Truman’s legacy continues in the Capitol.  A desk he used still remains in the Senate chamber, and has been used by Missouri senators over the last six decades, including McCaskill . Those who have used the desk have proudly inscribed their name alongside his inside the wooden desk.