Maloney Statement on Funeral of Former Congressman Ben Gilman

Newburgh, NY – Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) released the following statement after serving as a pallbearer and attending the funeral services for former Congressman Ben Gilman, who passed away on Saturday, December 17th. Ben Gilman was a World War II veteran who represented the Hudson Valley in Congress for thirty years.

"Ben Gilman is an American hero who flew 35 missions over Japan during World War II, became a warrior for his neighbors in Congress, and still earned the nickname 'Gentle Ben' for his remarkable humility. He set the gold standard for effectiveness over his long and distinguished service in Congress. His example reminds us of what we once admired in our government - smart, dedicated men like Ben Gilman seeking to make a difference. Not a week goes by that someone doesn't say to me, "Try to be like Ben Gilman; he was one of the good ones."

“I am honored that Ben’s wife Georgia and his children asked me to participate in celebrating the life of such a remarkable man. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and our Hudson Valley community during this time.”

Rep. Maloney attended the visitation and funeral services at Temple Sinai in Middletown on Tuesday, December 20th, where he served as a pallbearer. Rep. Maloney is also set to attend the private burial at West Point Cemetery following the services.