Courtney Statement on the Passing of Former Congressman Ike Skelton

WASHINGTON—Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-2) released the following statement on the passing of former colleague and Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Representative Ike Skelton of Missouri:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Ike Skelton, a true and steadfast friend to our military and the men and women who comprise it. When I arrived at the House Armed Services Committee as a freshman member in 2007, Ike was a friend and mentor to me as I sought to make the case for increased submarine production. I will always be grateful that under his chairmanship, he gave his support to the critical investment needed in 2007 to start the two submarine build rate.

“Always humble to a fault, Ike never called himself anything more than a ‘simple country lawyer,’ but all those who served with him know that his tenure left a lasting mark. There was never any question that Ike truly loved every single minute he served as both a member and chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, and I join my colleagues in mourning the passing of this truly great man.”