Hawaii Sen. Daniel Akaka received praise on the floor of the U.S. Senate today.

Democratic Majority Leader Harry Reid and Majority Whip Sen. Richard Durbin praised Akaka for his service to the country on the eve of Akaka’s retirement next month.

Akaka is scheduled to give his farewell speech on the Senate floor Wednesday at about 6:30 a.m. Hawaii time.

Reid offered his congratulations on Akaka’s retirement and cited his work for military veterans as chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee from 2007 to 2010.

He also noted that Akaka was the first Native Hawaiian chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee.

“Dan has been a strong voice and tireless advocate for Native Americans. He has taught us all about the history, history of Hawaii and its native communities, as well as issues facing indigenous Hawaiians today,” Reid said.

Durbin also praised Akaka’s legislation to help veterans and on agricultural issues. He also cited Akaka’s singing every Wednesday morning during the Senate Prayer Breakfast.

“He and Millie are the perfect Senate family. They have devoted a major part of their lives to serving Hawaii and serving in the national interest,” Durbin said. “We’re going to miss him.”