Rep. Anna G. Eshoo Pays Tribute to Congressman John Murtha

Washington, D.C. - Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-Palo Alto) issued the following statement on the passing of Congressman John Murtha:

I'm deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman John Murtha. He was a distinguished colleague and a trusted friend, and his death leaves our country bereft of one of its most courageous heroes. How proud I was to nominate him for the coveted John F. Kennedy Profiles in Courage Award, which he was given in 2006.

Last Saturday, Congressman Murtha became the longest serving Member of Congress from Pennsylvania. He was elected to the House in 1974, the first Vietnam veteran to serve in the House. He served in the Marine Corps for 37 years, achieving the rank of Colonel, and spent his entire congressional career championing our nation's armed forces.

Congressman Murtha originally voted to authorize the use of force in Iraq, but his unswerving devotion to our troops led him to constantly examine the war effort. After great personal reflection and continual contact with military leadership, he stepped forward in November 2005 and did what members of Congress are charged to do: he spoke truth to power, and said the war must end.

Congressman Murtha served our country on the battlefield, winning two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. In Congress, he fought for our troops and their families, and was respected and beloved on both sides of the aisle.

How honored I am to have served with Congressman Murtha in the House, and to have worked with him on national security matters. His enduring friendship is a gift which I shall cherish always. May the love, prayers and respect of so many be a source of strength to his wife Joyce, and all his family.

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