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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Vice President

For Immediate Release November 24, 2000

STATEMENT BY THE VICE PRESIDENT

Tipper and I were extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Ambassador David Hermelin. The arrangement of the very first visit by an American President to Norway, helping develop an American-Norwegian initiative to destroy small arms around the world and promote the delivery of prosthetics to victims of wars were among his many successes as Ambassador to Norway. As evidence of his outstanding service as Ambassador, the King of Norway presented him with Norway's highest civilian award -- the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit Grand Cross.

Before and after his tenure as Ambassador, he worked tirelessly in numerous philanthropic ways. No cause was too small for him. His joy for life, his commitment to family, and his efforts for people across the world will be dearly missed.

Tipper and I offer our prayers and condolences to his wife Doreen, his five children and his grandchildren.

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