WASHINGTON -- U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement tonight upon learning of the death of Col. Van T. Barfoot of Virginia. Sen. Warner first met Col. Barfoot when, as Governor, he broke ground in 2005 on the Sitter/Barfoot Veterans Care Facility in Richmond:

"Col. Barfoot was a remarkable man who demonstrated tremendous bravery in military service to his country during three wars. The actions that earned Col. Barfoot the Medal of Honor, the Silver Star and the Bronze Star still have the power to inspire. We all saw a bit of that same determination and grit when Col. Barfoot fought his neighbors over a flagpole he constructed in his front yard. Our nation and our state has lost a remarkable man, and my thoughts tonight are with his family and friends."

# # #