President Obama: Murtha 'tough-as-nails' leader

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http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/02/08/AR2010020803054.html

President Barack Obama says he was saddened to hear of the death of Rep. John Murtha and called his fellow Democrat a steadfast advocate for the people of Pennsylvania for nearly 40 years.

Obama on Monday called Murtha a devoted husband and a loving father who had a "tough-as-nails" reputation. The president says Murtha's passion for service was born during his military career and carried over to his congressional service.

Obama says Murtha was a respected voice on issues of national security.



http://www.politico.com/politico44/
"Michelle and I were deeply saddened today to hear about the passing of Congressman John Murtha. Jack was a devoted husband, a loving father and a steadfast advocate for the people of Pennsylvania for nearly 40 years. His passion for service was born during his decorated career in the United States Marine Corps, and he went on to earn the distinction of being the first Vietnam War combat veteran elected to Congress. 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."