Cole Comments on Passing of Henry Bellmon

WASHINGTON – U.S. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) provided the following comments on the passing of Henry Bellmon.

"Henry Bellmon was a great American, a great Oklahoman and a great Republican. He first served his country in combat as a marine in the South Pacific during the Second World War. When he returned home he was elected to the State House of Representatives and later became Republican State Chairman. Next he served as the first Republican governor of our state. He served two terms in the U.S. Senate and was then reelected as governor. Over the years, Henry Bellmon served the people of Oklahoma in every conceivable fashion in terms of public service, private commitment and personal example. He laid the foundation for the modern two-party system in Oklahoma and is rightfully called the 'father of the Oklahoma Republican Party.' I had the pleasure and privilege of serving as State Republican Chairman when he was elected for the second time as governor. Later, I served in the State Senate during his administration. Henry Bellmon led on every issue with courage, commitment, integrity and an unwavering sense of optimism about Oklahoma and its future. Like tens of thousands of other Oklahomans, I honor and appreciate his life, mourn his loss and offer my heartfelt sympathy to his family. Henry Bellmon was an Oklahoma political pioneer - we won't see his like again."

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