Congressman John Murtha Dies At Age 77

WJAC TV News is reporting that longtime U.S. Congressman John Murtha died today at 1:18 PM at Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, Va. Murtha has served the constituents of the Pennsylvania's 12th Congressional District since 1974. Murtha apparently died from complications that resulted from gallbladder surgery.

The 77-year-old Murtha underwent scheduled laparoscopic surgery to remove his gallbladder last week, said spokesman Matthew Mazonkey. "Complications did arise from the surgery, and he is currently at the Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington," he said. Click Here To Read More

Prior to serving his 19 terms in Congress Murtha also served in the state legislature. He also served 37 years in the Marines and Marine Corps Reserves. He retired from the Reserves in 1990 and received the Navy Distinguished Service Medal.

Despite my own political disagreements with Representative Murtha, I always thought he was just a great guy to get to know. Jack as he was so lovingly called by those who knew him well, was a straight shooter. He was also always willing to lend a hand no matter how small the issue was. This is why he was elected to so many terms in Congress by the people he served.

My heart goes out to Congressman Murtha's family. May God ease their suffering during this time of loss.

More Links:

Congressman John Murtha Dies At Age 77 (WJAC TV New)

John Murtha dies at 77 (The Politico)

Rep. Murtha Dead at 77 (Fox News)