SIMI VALLEY, CALIFORNIA – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement on the passing of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush:

“Former President George H.W. Bush was a statesman and a leader, a man of dedication and dignity who served his nation in the military, in Congress, and in the White House. Throughout his lifetime of service, President Bush left his mark on our entire nation – but his loss will be felt even more acutely in Maine, the home of his beloved Walker’s Point.

“For all his achievements, President Bush remained humble, kind, and warm. Like so many Maine people, I’ve been fortunate enough to spend time with President Bush during some of his trips to Kennebunkport – and like all who have had that opportunity, I will forever cherish the time we were able to share. His passing leaves a great hole in our nation and in our state; he will be deeply missed. During this sad time, Mary and I are keeping his family – especially his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren – in our thoughts.”

Senator King is at the Ronald Reagan National Library today in Simi Valley, California, to participate in the Reagan National Defense Forum.