Today, Congressman Patrick McHenry (NC-10) released the following statement on the passing of Hickory resident Sanford "Sandy" Lyons:

“Giulia and I are saddened to hear of the passing of Sandy Lyons, a man of great character who dedicated his life to service and someone I was blessed to call a friend.  Sandy was a patriot in the true sense of the word.  A graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, he went on to a distinguished career as an officer in the Army and then as an innovative leader in the fiber optics industry.  Despite being a formidable opponent, I became close with Sandy during my first run for Congress and was honored to ultimately receive his endorsement. Our prayers are with his wife, Catherine, and sons, Connor, Greyson, and Benjamin.”