UPDATE from 6pm Wednesday
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- While Sen. Robert C. Byrd was being honored in Washington, there was a celebration of the milestone here at home.

Friends and leaders came together at the West Virginia State Capitol to honor the longest serving congressional member.

The state House, Senate and Gov. Joe Manchin each signed into law Wednesday that Nov. 18 would be "Robert C. Byrd Day" in West Virginia..

As hundreds of political leaders and Byrd supporters gathered under his statue inside the State Capitol for a fitting tribute complete with fiddle music, reflecting on his many accomplishments and sharing stories about his love of learning, serving and the Constitution. There also was a surprise guest -- the nation's symbol -- a bald eagle.

They also sang "Happy Birthday" to Byrd who will turn 92 years old on Friday.

Sen. Byrd did make it out on to the Senate floor in Washington late Wednesday afternoon to talk about making American history. Fighting back tears, an emotional Byrd said his only regret was that his late wife Erma wasn't there to share the moment with him.

UPDATE: November 18 @ 7:30am
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- West Virginia Sen. Robert C. Byrd has now been on Capitol Hill longer than any lawmaker in congressional history.

The Senate will mark the milestone when it convenes Wednesday morning and acknowledges Byrd's 56 years and 320 days of service.

It's unclear if Byrd will be able to attend due to frail health, but he issued a statement saying his only regret is that his late wife, Erma, isn't there with him. Byrd says she would probably congratulate him and warn him not to let his accomplishment go to his head.

Byrd's colleagues have elected him to more leadership positions than any senator in history. He has cast more than 18,000 votes and, despite fragile health lately, has a nearly 98 percent attendance record over the course of his career.

Friday is his 92nd birthday.

Statement from Senator Robert C. Byrd
“I am so deeply grateful to the people of the great State of West Virginia for demonstrating such confidence in me and enabling me to reach this momentous milestone. My only regret is that my beloved wife, companion and confidant, my dear Erma, is not here with me to witness this wonderful day. I know that she is looking down from the heavens smiling at me and saying congratulations my dear Robert -- but don’t let it go to your head.”

“Although we are marking a longevity milestone, it has been the quality and dedication of service that has guided me over the years. I have strived to provide the people of West Virginia the best representation possible each of the 20,774 days which I have served in the Congress of the United States. From the bottom of my heart I thank each and every West Virginian for the support they have given me during this time, and for putting their trust and faith in me.

The only way for me to close on this historic day is to say that I look forward to serving you for the next 56 years and 320 days! Thank you and may God bless you.”

Senator Byrd will become the longest serving Congressional member in history on November 18, 2009 with 56 years and 320 days representing West Virginia.

Carl Hayden From Arizona currently holds the title with 56 years and 319 days. According to autographcollector.com, Hayden came to the House when Arizona became a state in 1912.

West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin, along with members of the Legislature, congressional members and fellow West Virginians are planning a special celebration to honor the state's senior senator.

"On Nov. 18, a West Virginian breaks all records and makes history," Governor Joe Manchin said. "Sen. Byrd sets the gold standard for what it means to be an outstanding public official, and next week he will reach a historic national milestone for length of service."

The state's celebration kicks off at 3:00 p.m. next Wednesday in front of the senator's statue on the second floor Rotunda of the State Capitol.

Governor Joe Manchin, Judge Blane Michael, Charleston Attorney Ned Rose and Director of the Robert C. Byrd Center for Legislative Studies Ray Smock will all speak at the event.

Anne Barth, State Director for Senator Robert C. Byrd, is expected to deliver a message from the senator.

According to a spokesperson with the governor's office, the senator won't be able to attend the celebration in Charleston. He will be in Washington, D.C.

"Sen. Byrd is a man of the people who fights tirelessly for us every single day in Washington," Manchin said. "West Virginians are so thankful for Sen. Byrd’s service to our state and this ceremony gives us an opportunity to applaud his efforts. Gayle and I invite all West Virginians to participate in this very special day."

The ceremony will be followed by an exhibit that highlights the senator's accomplishments and includes photos from throughout his distinguished career.

The ceremony and exhibit are free and open to the public.

Statement from Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito
“Senator Byrd’s lengthy record of service in Congress is something for which every West Virginian can be proud,” said Capito. “For nearly 57 years, West Virginians have elected Senator Byrd as their representative in Washington, DC -- and that’s a responsibility he has never taken lightly.

“I wish him all the best on this historic occasion and look forward to his continued service on behalf of the people of our great state.”

President Obama Statement on Senator Robert Byrd
“Today, my friend Senator Robert Byrd becomes the longest-serving Member of Congress in our nation’s history, and I’d like to take this opportunity to applaud him and extend heartfelt thanks for his nearly 57 years of remarkable service.

Senator Byrd has always represented the people of West Virginia with pride and passion, fighting to put working families first and make life better for the people of his beloved state. His knowledge and experience in the Senate are unparalleled, and he commands the respect of all those who have had the honor of serving with him. Countless colleagues – myself included - have looked to him for advice, guidance and leadership over the years.

He is one of the most steadfast defenders of the United States Constitution, and he never lets us forget the guiding values and principles that make our nation great. Michelle and I extend our most heartfelt congratulations to Senator Byrd and his family today, and our entire nation thanks him for his continued service and leadership.”