Cole Mourns Loss of Chairman Ike Skelton

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after former Congressman Ike Skelton (MO-04) passed away. During much of his 34-year career, Skelton served on the House Committee on Armed Services as Ranking Member (1998-2006) and Chairman (2007-2010) of the full committee.

"I was grieved to hear about the loss of my dear friend and colleague Ike Skelton," said Cole. "I had the great privilege of serving with him for six years on the Armed Services Committee, where his deep commitment to the defense of our country and support of our men and women in uniform was unmatched. I learned as much if not more about the intricacies of defense policy from Ike than any of my other colleagues.

"During his distinguished career in the House of Representatives, he was noticeably the best read, most thoughtful Member of Congress. Moreover, he had the ability to work in a civil, decent and instinctively bipartisan manner with all of his colleagues. His opinion mattered a great deal. Even after the end of his tenure in Congress, I considered him an advisor on defense issues.

"The loss of Ike Skelton is difficult indeed, but his influence will never be forgotten, especially by those involved in defending the United States and protecting the men and women who volunteered to defend our nation. My thoughts, prayers and sympathy are with his family and many friends as we all grieve," concluded Cole.

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