Governor Kathy Hochul today directed flags to be lowered at half-staff to honor the life and public service of Former Representative Charles B. Rangel, who passed away today at the age of 94.

“Charlie was a powerful voice in government and politics, and we remember him today for not only leading his life as a public servant of this great State but also for his dedicated service to our military in the Korean War,” Governor Hochul said. “A fierce advocate for equal opportunity and a voice for Harlem, Representative Rangel’s legacy shows us what we can accomplish as determined legislators. My thoughts are with all who loved him.”

Born in Harlem, Representative Rangel dedicated his life to public service beginning in 1970 — when he was first elected to Congress — and retiring in 2016. His 46 years in Congress led him to become the ninth-longest serving in the House, where he backed the Affordable Care Act, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and sponsored more than 40 pieces of legislation that became law.

Representative Rangel earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his dedicated service in the U.S. military during the Korean War.