STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- In the wake of Rep. John Murtha’s passing early Monday afternoon, an outpouring of support and condolences were offered to the infamous politician’s family.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jack's wife and family,” said Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.) in a written statement Monday afternoon.. “This was a man who learned the lessons of service to country first as an Eagle Scout and then in service as a U.S. Marine. He continued that tradition as the longest serving U.S. Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. He will be mourned and his expertise will be missed in the Commonwealth.”

Serving his 18th term, Murtha became Pennsylvania’s longest serving member of Congress this past Saturday.

In a live telephone interview from Washington, D.C., during WJAC-TV’s 5 p.m. newscast, Thompson shared his memories of Murtha’s compassion.

“He cared about his colleges,” said Thompson. “His life was all about public service.”