John Murtha
On Sunday, January 31, 2010 Representative John P. “Jack” Murtha (D-Pa.) was admitted to Virginia Hospital Center’s Intensive Care Unit due to major complications from surgery at another medical facility. Despite aggressive critical care interventions, Rep. Murtha died today, Monday 8 February 2010 at 1:18 pm, with his family at the bedside.
Murtha, 77, was Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. First elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in February of 1974, Murtha dedicated his life to serving his country both in the military and in the halls of Congress. A former Marine, he became the first Vietnam War combat Veteran elected to the U.S. Congress.
This past Saturday, February 6, 2010, Murtha became Pennsylvania’s longest serving Member of Congress.
The entire staff and administration at Virginia Hospital Center, especially the physicians and nurses caring for Rep. Murtha, stated deep sadness by his passing. The Hospital admires the strength and courage of the Murtha family during this difficult time and would like to express their deepest condolences to Rep. Murtha’s family and Congressional office for their loss.
Governor Edward G. Rendell today said all Pennsylvanians should be sad at the loss of this “uber-congressman.”
“Pennsylvania has lost one of its greatest citizens,” Governor Rendell said. “Congressman Murtha impacted the entire state, not just his congressional district, in ways that almost no individual has. He did so much for so many of us throughout the commonwealth.
“He was also the best friend and supporter of our military and the men and women who risk their lives for our country. He worked tirelessly to ensure that our military had the resources it needed to do its job effectively and that our service men and women had every piece of equipment necessary to protect them. He had the courage and integrity to make sure the military was on the right track and he was not afraid to raise questions.
“He will be sorely missed by every citizen of the commonwealth,” the Governor said. “Midge and I extend our deepest sympathy and support to the Murtha family.”
Governor Rendell ordered all Pennsylvania and U.S. flags across the commonwealth to be flown at half-staff in memory of the late congressman.
“This is fitting because Jack Murtha was not just a wonderful congressman for his district, but for all of Pennsylvania,” said Governor Rendell. “No matter what the issue was, Jack and Jack’s office was the first call we would make. No matter where you were in Pennsylvania, and certainly for anyone sitting in this chair, he was the go-to guy. He will be missed in countless ways.”
Flags will remain at half-staff through interment.
