Washington D.C. – House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith made the following statement on the passing of General John M. Shalikashvhili: 

Gen. John Shalikashvili was a brave hero who understood what it meant to be an American. While he was not born in the United States, he dedicated his life to protecting it and those who live here. Only a man of John's stature could arrive in a foreign country at such a young age and rise to one of its most powerful positions. His story is uniquely American.

In Washington State, John was very active in supporting our military and nonprofit communities. As Chairman of the Joint Chiefs he was a fierce advocate for the men and women of our Armed Services and our country and we are all better off because of his service. He will be sorely missed and our thoughts and prayers are with his family on this sad day.