Members of the House of Delegates gave sentimental good-byes this morning to their colleague, Del. Frank D. Hargrove Sr., R-Hanover, who will not seek re-election this fall after 28 years in the House.
One after the other, members rose to share memories of their time with the last World War II veteran serving in the House.
Del. Anne B. Crockett-Stark, R-Wythe, read aloud a funny card she crafted for Hargrove about his leaving in tough economic times and Del. Riley E. Ingram, R-Hopewell, told about how Hargrove inspired him to stop smoking.
Del. Ward R. Armstrong, D-Henry, the House Minority Leader, commended Hargrove's dedication to imposing a moratorium on the death penalty, though the position is unpopular with many fellow Republicans.
Hargrove has said sentencing a murderer to life in prison protects the public and avoids the possibility of an execution arising from a wrongful conviction.
A humbled Hargrove thanked the delegates and appeared to wipe tears from eyes several times during the emotional testimonials.
The retired insurance executive previously announced on his 82nd birthday that he would not run again. He represents the 55th House District, which consists of most of Hanover.
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