WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., issued the following statement on the passing of President George Herbert Walker Bush:

“Gayle and I were saddened to learn this morning of the death of one of the greatest statesmen and public servants our nation has ever known. As a naval pilot during World War II, a congressman, ambassador to the United Nations, envoy to China, director of Central Intelligence, Vice President, President, and elder statesman, George Bush devoted his life to our country. The American people are grateful for President Bush’s steady and principled leadership as he oversaw the peaceful conclusion of the Cold War, and led an international coalition to liberate the people of Kuwait. He will also be remembered for his deep faith and wonderful family.

“I first met President Bush when he was Chairman of the Republican National Committee and I was Associated Student Body President at the University of Mississippi. I have had many more opportunities to meet with President Bush over the years, but one notable connection he had to our state was through his deep friendship with the late Congressman G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery. It makes me smile when I recall the great bipartisan friendship between these two members of our greatest generation. On behalf of all Mississippians, I share my deepest sympathies and prayers for the entire Bush family.”