Former Virginia Senator John Warner died earlier this week in his Alexandria home. He was 94.

Warner, a Republican, served five terms — 30 years — in the U.S. Senate. He was particularly known and respected for his expertise in military affairs. A veteran of both WWII and the Korean War, Warner joined the Navy in 1945 and the Marines five years later.

Prior to his service in elected office, Warner held senior posts in the Nixon Administration as Under Secretary of the Navy and then as Navy Secretary. In the Ford Administration, Warner led the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration.

Fairfax GOP Chairman Steve Knotts hailed Warner’s memory in a statement issued today. “John Warner loved Virginia, and Virginia loved him,” Knotts said. “We are immensely grateful for Sen. Warner’s public service; and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his many friends and loved ones.”