Pennsylvania Representative Dies from Surgery Complications
John P. Murtha, a Representative from the state of Pennsylvania, died today in Virginia from complications with gall bladder surgery. Two days prior, Murtha became the longest-serving congressman in Pennsylvania history. He was 77.
Despite his long tenure, Murtha was a relatively unknown Democrat in the public sphere, though his presence was surely felt in Washington and his district in southeastern Pennsylvania. As of late, however, Murtha became an outspoken critic of the war in Iraq, recently generating publicity for his opposition to the Bush Administration and advocacy for the withdrawal of our troops.
Though born in West Virginia in June 1932, Murtha grew up in Pennsylvania. In 1952, he left Washington and Jefferson College to enlist in the Marine Corps and serve in the Korean War.
Ten years later, Murtha graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in economics. In 1966, he served as an officer in Vietnam and received a Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry.
Murtha was the first Vietnam War combat veteran elected to Congress. Before being elected to serve Washington, D.C. in 1974, Murtha served five years in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Murtha is survived by his wife of 55 years, a daughter, twin sons, and three grandchildren.
[photo: Center for American Progress Action Fund]
Tags: Democrat, John P. Murtha, Korea, Marine Corps, Pennsylvania, Representative, Vietnam