In memory of an Alaskan legacy (Sen. Mark Begich)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mark Begich issued the following statement today in reaction to the tragic Monday night airplane crash near Dillingham which killed former U.S. Senator Ted Stevens and others:

“Alaska has lost one of its greatest statesmen and a true pioneer of our state with the passing of Senator Ted Stevens. Over his four decades of public service in the U.S. Senate, Senator Stevens was a forceful advocate for Alaska who helped transform our state in the challenging years after Statehood. Senator Stevens’ many contributions to Alaska are enormous and his legacy of fierce devotion to Alaska will be long-lasting.

Deborah and I join all Alaskans in praying for Senator Stevens’ wife, Catherine, and his extended family. Let us also remember the other victims of this terrible tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are also with their families.”