WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today issued the following statement on the death of Phillip Martin, the longtime chief of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians:

“Chief Martin was a leader who inspired his people and strengthened his community and state. During his 48 years of public service, he helped bring his community out of poverty and troubled times and created hope and opportunity for Mississippi Choctaws. Chief Martin will be missed by many, but his legacy of self-determination will continue to flourish in future generations of Choctaws. Gayle and I send our condolences to Chief Martin’s family and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. Our prayers are with them as they mourn the loss of such a remarkable man,” said Senator Wicker.

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