Former and current politicians shared stories Friday about Edgar Whitcomb, the former Indiana governor who died last week.
As Governor Mike Pence describes him, Edgar Whitcomb lived big. In his years as governor from 1969 to 1973 Pence says Whitcomb increased funding for education, mental health and infrastructure while maintaining a focus on fiscal responsibility.
House Speaker Brian Bosma quoted a story that said Whitcomb was "anti-establishment and pro-taxpayer before it was cool."
Before his political career, Whitcomb served as a B-17 navigator during World War II, and escaped a Japanese prisoner of war camp twice. He developed a passion for sailing late in life and circumnavigated the globe in his 30-foot boat.
"Sail on, Governor Whitcomb," Pence says. "But know that we here in your beloved Indiana will never forget your service, we will never forget your smile, and we will never fail to be inspired by your life and your courage."
Edgar Whitcomb was 98 years old.