Speaking from his vacation home in Chilmark Wednesday morning, President Obama ordered the flag at the White House to be lowered to half mast, as well as flags at all federal government buildings, to mark the death of Sen. Edward M. Kennedy. Mr. Kennedy died early Wednesday morning at his home in Hyannis Port of brain cancer at the age of 77. Mr. Obama was told of the death at 2 a.m. and called the Kennedy family just before 2:30 a.m. Wednesday.

The following statement was released by the White House early this morning:

Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy.

For five decades, virtually every major piece of legislation
to advance the civil rights, health and economic well being of the
American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts.

I valued his wise counsel in the Senate, where, regardless of the swirl of events, he always had time for a new colleague. I cherished his confidence and momentous support in my race for the Presidency. And even as he waged a valiant struggle with a mortal illness, I've profited as President from his encouragement and wisdom.

An important chapter in our history has come to an end. Our country has lost a great leader, who picked up the torch of his fallen brothers and became the greatest United States Senator of our time.

And the Kennedy family has lost their patriarch, a tower of strength and support through good times and bad.

Our hearts and prayers go out to them today - to his wonderful wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family.

A complete obituary and tributes to Senator Kennedy will appear in the Friday Gazette.