Gov. Gregoire�s statement on the passing of Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii

For Immediate Release: December 19, 2012

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement on the passing of Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii:

�Sen. Inouye taught us all what public service and sacrifice look like. He was a great statesman and servant to the people of Hawaii and was also a great friend to Washington state.

�Sen. Inouye served our country in World War II. He put his country above himself and kept fighting even when he was grievously wounded - he never gave up.

�Serving nearly 50 years in the Senate, Sen. Inouye with that same fighting spirit and quiet resolve championed issues that not only affected the people of Hawaii but everyone.

�In Washington state he advocated on behalf of salmon, Native American issues, infrastructure and the military. He and his wife, Irene Hirano Inouye, were great supporters of the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience in Seattle.

�On behalf of all Washingtonians I would like to offer our prayers and sympathy to his family. Sen. Inouye has left an enduring legacy and indelible mark in service to our nation and will be greatly missed.�