Don Young was born on June 9, 1933, in California. He grew up in a middle-class family and developed a strong work ethic from a young age. After graduating from high school, he decided to enlist in the Army, serving from 1955 to 1957. It was during his time in the military that he developed a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to serve his country in some capacity.
After his military service, Young made the bold decision to move to Alaska in 1959. At that time, Alaska had only recently become a state, and the opportunities for growth and development were abundant. Young saw the potential for a new life in the rugged wilderness of the Last Frontier, and he was determined to make his mark in this new and exciting landscape.
Upon arriving in Alaska, Young wasted no time in getting to work. He started out as a tugboat captain, navigating the treacherous waters of the Alaska coast. He then went on to run a successful barge operation, delivering much-needed products and supplies to remote villages along the Yukon River. This experience gave him a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by Alaskans living in rural areas, and it fueled his passion for public service.
Young's foray into politics began when he decided to run for the U.S. House of Representatives in 1973. He was elected as the U.S. Representative for Alaska's at-large congressional district, a position he held for an incredible 22 consecutive terms. He was known as Alaska's third senator due to his long and influential tenure in Congress.
Throughout his decades-long career in politics, Young was a tireless advocate for Alaska and its people. He worked tirelessly to secure funding for infrastructure projects, protect Alaska's natural resources, and promote economic growth in the state. He was a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment and a vocal advocate for the rights of Alaskan Natives.
In addition to his political career, Young was also a dedicated family man. He had two daughters with his wife, Lula Fredson, who was a proud member of the indigenous Gwich'in community. His commitment to his family and his heritage shaped his values and guided his decision-making in Congress.
Young was known for his strong support of Mike Huckabee during the 2008 Presidential race. He believed that Huckabee embodied the values and principles that were important to him and his constituents. His endorsement of Huckabee demonstrated his willingness to stand up for what he believed in, even when it may have been unpopular.
Don Young passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to the people of Alaska. His impact on the state and its residents will be felt for generations to come.