I began working in media in 1970 and made my living in that field through July of 1983. During that time, I had the opportunity to meet—and in some cases get to know—many public figures, particularly government officials and politicians. Some were impressive. Others were not.

One of the finest people I had the pleasure of knowing was former Indiana Congressman Lee Hamilton.

When I started as the morning news anchor at radio station WCSI in Columbus  duringthe late 1970s, Hamilton was the local member of Congress. I also hosted a daily talk show, and Congressman Hamilton was a regular guest. He was always thoughtful, prepared, and respectful of both the audience and the questions.

Hamilton, a Democrat, earned the respect of people in both political parties. He was widely regarded as an expert on foreign policy, particularly the Middle East, and presidents from both parties sought his counsel.

First elected to Congress in 1964, Hamilton represented southeast Indiana for 34 years, serving until 1999. When leaders on Capitol Hill needed a steady, trusted hand to lead or participate in difficult and sensitive work, Hamilton was often the choice.

His record reflects that trust. He served as vice chair of the Iran-Contra Committee in 1987 and was a member of the House Task Force on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1979. In 2006, he co-chaired the Iraq Study Group with former Secretary of State James Baker.

Hamilton may be best remembered nationally as vice chair of the 9/11 Commission, which examined the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and issued recommendations that continue to influence national security policy.

In February 2016, a retired Hamilton visited Fishers High School, speaking to students about government and civic responsibility. During that visit, he said Congress had become “too timid” and needed to assert its authority on major decisions facing the nation.

I had a chance to speak with him that day. He said he remembered me. Whether he truly did or not, I clearly remembered my many encounters with him over the years.

Lee Hamilton died at the age of 94. He lived a full life and served the public with distinction—someone who could look back with pride on a lifetime of service.

Having known many public officials from 1970 to the present day, I place Lee Hamilton among the very best. His accomplishments deserve to be remembered—and valued.