On the Passing of Congressman John Murtha

This afternoon, Congressman John Murtha (D-PA) passed away at age 77. First elected in 1974, Congressman Murtha was Pennsylvania’s longest-serving representative and the first Vietnam War combat veteran elected to Congress.

On his passing today, President Obama said that following Murtha’s career in the Marines, “Jack’s tough-as-nails reputation carried over to Congress, where he became a respected voice on issues of national security. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife of nearly 55 years, Joyce, their three children, and the entire Murtha family.”

Chairman Tim Kaine issued the following statement:

“Today we mourn the loss of a great American figure who dedicated his life to serving his country both in the military and in the halls of Congress. Congressman Murtha had a storied 37-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps and in 1974 he became the first Vietnam War combat veteran elected to Congress.

“Just the other day, Congressman Murtha became the longest serving Pennsylvanian in the history of the House of Representatives. During his career, he worked hard to bring tens of thousands of middle class jobs to western Pennsylvania. His legacy as a fighter for his causes and his constituents will be remembered long after his passing.

“Our thoughts and prayers today are with the Congressman’s wife, his children and his grandchildren.”