Washington (AP) -- Robert Byrd, the longest serving senator in history, has returned to the chamber after being absent for weeks due to illness.

The 91-year-old West Virginia democrat, in a wheelchair, cast his first vote since may on an amendment to a key defense policy bill.

He was hospitalized may 15 for an infection.

His stint in the hospital was extended when he developed a more severe infection, but he was recently released.

Byrd voted to extend production of F-22 fighter planes.

(Copyright 2009 by the Associated Press. All rights reserved.)