U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL) released the following statement upon U.S. Rep. Bill Young’s announcement of his planned retirement in 2014:

“I join our neighbors across the Tampa Bay area and Florida in lauding Congressman Bill Young’s long-time service in Congress and his dedication to our community, especially his passion for our military members, veterans and their families. Congressman Young and his wife, Beverly, have left a tremendous legacy in not only advocating for MacDill Air Force Base and our war fighters, but also the families who provide our soldiers with the unwavering support and sacrifice they need to serve our country. He also has left his mark in numerous areas including the University of South Florida, Bay Pines Medical Center, St. Petersburg College, and Tampa Bay Water. It has been a privilege to serve alongside Congressman Young, who is one of the most honorable members of Congress ever to serve in the body.”