STATEMENT FROM SENATOR JOHN KERRY ON FRITZ HOLLINGS RETIREMENT

“Since my first days in the Senate, I have valued the friendship and advice of Fritz Hollings. His wit and humor have livened up the most mundane of debates, but when he spoke, he always spoke loudest for those he represented in South Carolina.

“Fritz Hollings is a special person who defines the words public servant. First as a soldier in World War II and then through his service as a Governor and a Senator, his record is truly unmatched. From the creation of technical colleges and the peaceful integration of Clemson University to his working on balancing the budget and preserving Social Security, South Carolina is undoubtedly better for the unwavering service and dedication of Senator Fritz Hollings. I will miss his voice, his independence, and -- most important to me -- his friendship."

So Long, Fritz!