Governor Eric J. Holcomb is directing flags across the state to be flown at half-staff to honor former U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar, who passed away early today.

Flags should be flown at half-staff from now until sunset on the day of his funeral, which has not yet been announced.

Gov. Holcomb also asks businesses and residents to lower their flags to half-staff as well to honor former U.S. Sen. Lugar.

Governor Eric J. Holcomb offered the following after the passing of former U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar:

“The world weeps alongside Indiana after just learning we lost one of our best, ever.

“As an always faithful servant to the highest ideals in every walk of his incredible life, Richard Lugar ran the family farm, charted a new innovative course for Indiana’s capital city, and devoted a record six terms as a U.S. Senator to making the world a more prosperous and peaceful place.

 “He was an officer and gentleman, father and faith leader, a Mayor and Senator, a diplomat and legendary role model to millions.

“Janet and I are keeping Mrs. Lugar and their wonderful family in our prayers and ask all those touched by his service to join us.”

Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch offered the following after the passing of former U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar:

"Senator Lugar was an institution, a policymaker and true advocate for the state of Indiana. His work in Congress remains unparalleled. 

His political power influenced those around him, including myself. I first was inspired to enter politics in 1982, when I worked for him on his campaign trail. I know countless individuals who are in the leadership positions they are today, because of Senator Lugar. 

I join the country in mourning the incredible loss we have incurred, along with his family. Indiana would not be the state it is without him, and we are forever in his debt."

U.S. Senator Mike Braun released the following statement following the news of the passing of U.S. Senator Dick Lugar:

“Senator Richard Lugar is a towering figure in Hoosier history and one of the greatest statesmen ever to serve in the U.S. Senate.  As our longest serving Senator, he worked tirelessly with leaders across the globe to better the state and the country he loved. Maureen and I are praying for the Lugar family in this difficult time.”

Congressman Jim Banks (R-IN), released the following statement regarding the death of former Indiana Senator, Richard Lugar:

“Dick Lugar is a giant in the hearts and minds of Hoosiers and all who served with him during his career in public service and record-setting tenure in the Senate.  His selfless service and tireless advocacy on behalf of the state and nation we both love inspired many to follow his footsteps into public service.  I had the privilege to spend a fair amount of time with him since being elected to Congress and will treasure the counsel and encouragement he provided.  The world is a better place because of Sen. Lugar and he will be missed immensely.  Amanda and I send our prayers and condolences to the Lugar family, and all those who are mourning his loss.”

Indiana Republican Party Chairman Kyle Hupfer released the following statement:
 
"Today as Hoosiers and Americans, we mourn the loss of Richard Lugar, the ultimate statesman who leaves an immeasurable impact on the city of Indianapolis, the state of Indiana, our nation and our globe.

"Lugar was a Hoosier who dedicated his life to making the world a better a place, starting in his own hometown by ushering in a new era of modern government for Indianapolis. He brought new life to Indiana's capital city, with a visionary approach that catalyzed new growth and opportunity for the region. 

"But Richard Lugar's impact is felt by all Americans and all people who are safe today because of his commitment to security and nuclear disarmament during the Cold War. As a U.S. Senator, Richard Lugar reduced the threat of nuclear weapons in the former Soviet Union through the Nunn-Lugar Act. His leadership in foreign relations was unparalleled.

"Serving Hoosiers for nearly four decades -- the longest serving U.S. Senator in Indiana's history -- when Richard Lugar spoke, you listened. His words carried immense weight and were always backed with knowledge and insight.

"Outside the Senate, Richard Lugar is also responsible for inspiring generations of Hoosier and American leaders who follow him. In particular, his leadership in helping get more women involved in public service through the Richard G. Lugar Excellence in Public Service Series is a legacy that will continue here in Indiana as more than 2,000 women have now completed the program.

"Through it all, Richard Lugar led with a humble spirit that represented our state and our people with honor. He was a farmer, a mayor, a senator, a visionary, a leader, but most importantly, a Hoosier. We express our deepest condolences to Char and his family, and we thank them for sharing Richard Lugar with the world."