Washington Mourns Holbrooke's Passing

Following the news of longtime American diplomat Richard Holbrooke’s death on Monday, President Barack Obama released a lengthy statement, praising the decorated 69-year-old for his efforts to preserve the nation’s strength and safety.

“He was a truly unique figure who will be remembered for his tireless diplomacy, love of country, and pursuit of peace,” the president said. “The United States is safer and the world is more secure because of the half century of patriotic service of Ambassador Richard Holbrooke.”

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also issued a statement casting Holbrooke as one of the country’s “fiercest champions and most dedicated public servants.”

“Richard Holbrooke served the country he loved for nearly half a century, representing the United States in far-flung war-zones and high-level peace talks, always with distinctive brilliance and unmatched determination,” Clinton said. “He was one of a kind — a true statesman — and that makes his passing all the more painful.”

Vice President Joe Biden said the news of his friend passing made him extremely sad.

“Today, I lost a great friend and America lost one of its greatest warriors for peace. Richard Holbrooke was a larger than life figure, who through his brilliance, determination and sheer force of will helped bend the curve of history in the direction of progress. He touched so many lives and helped save countless more. He was a tireless negotiator, a relentless advocate for American interests, and the most talented diplomat we’ve had in a generation. Jill and I will miss him tremendously and we extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Kati and the entire Holbrooke family during their time of grief.”

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) also put out a statement, calling Holbrooke a leader of U.S. foreign policy.

“Ambassador Holbrooke dedicated his life to keeping America safe through tough, sensible diplomacy,” Reid said. “I will miss Ambassador Holbrooke’s friendship and counsel, and our nation will miss his tireless leadership and steady guidance of our foreign policy.”