Charles Rangel, former Congressman, dies at 94

(CNN, KYMA/KECY) - Former Congressman Charles Rangel (D-NY) has died at the age of 94. His passing was confirmed Monday by the City College of New York.

Rangel served in the U.S. Army from 1948 through 1952, and received a Purple Heart and Bronze Star with Valor for his efforts in Korea.

In 1961, he was named assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York. Five years later, Rangel's political career began as a New York state lawmaker.

It was 1970 that he was elected to the U.S. House to represent New York's 18th District to begin a 23-term run.

During his time in Congress, Rangel took on many roles. He was on the House Judiciary Committee during the President Richard Nixon impeachment hearings.

Rangel became the first Black member of the House Ways and Means Committee in 1975. Years later, he rose to Chairman of the panel.

He also co-founded and chaired the Congressional Black Caucus.

Rangel retired from Congress in 2017.

Rangel did encounter controversy during his House tenure. He faced various House Ethics Committee charges, and was later found guilty of 11.

Rangel was then censured by the House.