Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) issued the following statement on the passing of President George H.W. Bush:

     “President Bush was not only a hero of World War II—brave, tenacious, fearless and awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism under fire—but he was also an extraordinary family man who deeply loved his wife Barbara and family, and spent his entire public life pursuing peace and an end to the Cold War.  He inspired selfless public service—a thousand points of light—and generosity and compassion for others, especially those in need.   As both President and Vice President, he visited my district and the biggest takeaway from those experiences, as well as working with him in Washington, was how gracious and kind and humble he was.  Despite being the most powerful political leader on earth, he regarded the issues and solutions to problems as far more important than himself—truly amazing. 

     "At this time of sorrow and loss, my wife Marie and I offer our deepest condolences to the Bush family and join the nation is expressing our gratitude and respect for an exceptional man who served our country with great honor and distinction."

[CSPAN taped an appearance of President Bush visiting New Jersey the Fourth Congressional District in Robbinsville, NJ in 1992. It was reposted by the Patch news upon President Bush's passing: https://patch.com/new-jersey/manalapan/see-vintage-clip-president-h-w-bush-robbinsville-airport, which also posted the CSPAN video link: https://www.c-span.org/video/?33449-1/bush-campaign-speech. Congressman Smith was tasked to give the introduction of the President.]