WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement on the passing of George Herbert Walker Bush, the forty-first President of the United States:

“We mourn the loss of former President George H. W. Bush and thank him for a lifetime of patriotic service. 

“He was just 18 years old when he began his career as a naval aviator during World War II.  His commitment to public service continued in Congress, diplomatic and intelligence posts, as Vice President and President, and throughout his post-presidency.

“We may not have agreed on every issue, but you had to admire his character, integrity, and resolve.  He wasn’t afraid to work across party lines to improve the lives of Americans and people around the world.  He deserves great credit for signing the Americans with Disabilities Act into law.  His humanitarian work and disaster relief efforts have helped change lives and uplift communities at home and abroad.

“He and his beloved, late wife Barbara were devoted to our nation and each other.  We are grateful for their service and prayerful they are reunited once more.  Our sincere condolences to the Bush family.”