George McGovern Dies at 90

McGovern pictured in 1972

Statement by President Obama

George McGovern dedicated his life to serving the country he loved.  He signed up to fight in World War II, and became a decorated bomber pilot over the battlefields of Europe.  When the people of South Dakota sent him to Washington, this hero of war became a champion for peace.  And after his career in Congress, he became a leading voice in the fight against hunger.  George was a statesman of great conscience and conviction, and Michelle and I share our thoughts and prayers with his family.  

Statement by Vice President Biden

Jill and I are profoundly saddened to hear about George McGovern’s passing. I was honored to serve with him, to know him, and to call him a friend.

George believed deeply in public service. It defined him as a Senator and as a man. And he never stopped serving for his entire life – whether it was his courage in World War II, his time in Congress, or his fight to eliminate hunger at home and abroad.

Above all, George McGovern was a generous, kind, honorable man. He will be missed, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family today.

McGovern's accomplishments and personal history can be viewed here.