Nice piece but...uh...Dan Quayle is a "titan"??
1
“He was impatient for the memorials to end but expressed pride in himself for remaining publicly civil.”
All you can do is chuckle and shake your head. What a self-involved dolt.
6
Democrats -- and the liberal media -- love Republicans, when they're dead...
https://nypost.com/2018/12/04/democrats-really-do-love-republicans-when-theyre-dead/
We are all children of God. It is God which gives humans the truth about right from wrong, decent from indecent, and moral from immoral...and not a political party.
Blessed be those that believe in His name: who are born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
1
Enough of George W Bush's tears and sincerity.
He couldn't bother to be at his father's bedside when he died. He telephoned his dying father who had been hospitalized and seriously ill for some time instead .
That seems to go unnoticed. Why?
Bush jr's entire life history has been one of lacking courage and decency and taking responsibility. This was never someone worth electing dog catcher. The damage he wreaked around the world may never end, and this country went to war and destroyed a region with repercussions that continue based on his lies. I have a feeling GWH Bush was very glad not to have his son be the last thing he saw in this life.
.
3
Every President -- for that matter, just about every human being -- has both demons and better angels in his mind, and the conflict between them can be excruciating. Our current incumbent, however, seems to have no "better angels" at all.
He "expressed pride in himself for remaining publicly civil"? That's beyond bizarre.
2
The irony that many in the crowd of mourners are war criminals, torturers, and thieves almost overwhelms the fact that George W Bush is one of the greatest disasters to ever befall this country. His father virtually disowned him for his destruction of the national fabric. George W H Bush despised his son's blunders that generated disasters of war, economic collapse,indebtedness, and dislocation .
George W Bush and his accomplices are despicable for their roles in enabling destruction, stupidity, and human sacrifice. Their joint failures were so deep, so pervasive, and so scarring that even the justly maligned Donald Trump for all is foibles has yet to equal their mark.
1
May you Rest In Peace Mr. President.
George H.W. Bush was a decent human being and a president who truly did what he believed was right for his country. I am not a republican, and although I disagreed with many of his policies, I certainly was not opposed to them all. He did a lot of good for the environment, unlike trump who is trying to destroy it, his foreign policy was sound, he helped to unify Germany and to bring about the end of the Cold War as well as expelling Iraq from Kuwait. He was as imperfect as all humans are, but I think I would have gotten along great with him and would have loved to sit and listen to him talk for hours, days, years, something I cannot say for our current president (and I use that word loosely in regards to him).
My prayers to his family and friends and to our country. May his death help to bring about real change and challenge to our current administration and a unity between us American citizens. We have been divided for long enough. It is time to find common ground once again and real compromise in our political beliefs, especially within our congress.
2
I have very mixed feelings about Bush. On the one hand, he was a decent person, acted professionally, and built coalitions. On the other hand, many of his policies and actions hurt millions of people at home and abroad.
I have the same reaction to most of my prior managers and presidents of companies I've worked for. They seemed like good people in private, had nice families, and went to church, but made my working life unnecessarily miserable by their egoistic and narrow-minded policy and personnel decisions.
I disliked most of Bush's decisions, and I hate the legacy of George Bush Jr. I remember cringing everytime Bush Jr. was on TV. So why is it that otherwise good people make such mean decisions that hurt so many people?
It makes it difficult to honor good people who act in ways I find unethical and harmful.
5
The same media who ridiculed and insulted Bush '41 while he was president is now rightfully praising him for being a man of high character who wanted only to serve his country. GHWB and Barach Obama have set the standard for personal integrity.
2
As beautiful and moving as George Bush's funeral was, I find ceremonies such as these bittersweet. Famous people are so worshipped in America, while commoners are largely forgotten. Regular men and women who go about their daily lives, working hard, earning money, raising their children to become productive citizens in the future, making small or large gestures of kindness each and every day, then eventually dying, go unrecognized for their collectively huge efforts to better society. And the reason for this lack of appreciation and recognition is simply their lack of fame.
4
The most brilliant thing ever done to Trump was the Bush family inviting him to attend the funeral. The poor dope probably let his ego tell him, "See, they know I am not all that bad." But in reality, they know exactly what he is and the funeral provided the perfect comeuppance. They did what all well-bred people do, insult you without you even knowing it. Trump through the vainglory of thinking his attendance was desired had to sit and hear what people really thought of him, through thinly veiled highlights of what Trump is not. And even better, he had to show homage to a family he had cruelly disparaged.
It does not get any better than this. I somehow feel that 41 is enjoying the trick in his grave.
5
George Bush's death has the worlds attention and the words being spoken these days have my heart full of hope. It is not politics but truths about a good man.
Enjoyed reading this. There may be too many comparisons to Trump but they are interesting. I definitely noticed Michelle Obama's quick handshake and forced, brief smile. I just wanted to add another comparison Trump may have felt was directed at him because he thinks everything is about him. It is about the Bush's marriage of 73 years. I like Melania but she is clearly a trophy wife, many years younger than Trump, whom he took to a Hugh Heffner party. And he is a man who bragged about sexcapades and had to pay off women to keep them quiet. Bush said he did not want to sleep in separate bedrooms despite the snoring because he had to be able to reach out in the middle of the night and touch Bar. I understand that the Trumps have separate bedrooms. So there are other aspects of Bush and his marriage and family life that may have jarred Trump while sitting there. If he has a soul at all, which is doubtful.
2
Comments on Linda Qiu's "fact check" are closed, but her handling of George Bush's involvement with the Iran-Contra scandal is weak and lacking. The scandal was about continuing operations against Nicaragua via the Contras after the 2nd Boland Amendment which both banned funding -- exactly Iran-Contra -- and banned CIA support, starting in 1984. George Bush and CIA agent Max Gomez, operating out of Bush's vice-president's office, ran operations and got caught at it when Eugene Hasenfus was captured by Nicaragua.
It was all part of the same effort to elude laws passed by Congress. Failing to mention how deeply involved in Nicaragua Vice President George Bush was distorts the historical record, something a fact check should never do.
1
Bush '41 may not have been an inspirational president, nor a perfect one - he had many faults. But as I watched the entire funeral event on tv yesterday, I felt like an American again (for a change), the contrast with Trump was powerful and meaningful.
Maybe it was a fantasy, but it gave pause and was so welcome in this time of hate , indecency and divisiveness. My only hope is that other people, republicans namely, will be moved too and find their bearings again- a kinder, better reality.
57
@pkay
You have poignantly expressed my feelings & experience having like you. watched the entire funeral on tv. I too, hope & pray for a return to a kinder & gentler politic & nation....It was truly a 'teaching moment'.
4
The late Bush said before his death, that he wanted Trump to attend his funeral. It was a gracious gesture that forgave the salvo of insults that Trump had rained on the Bush family.
Perhaps Trump would regret attending Bush’s funeral. His name was not even mentioned once by the four eulogists at the ceremony. But their words were an implicit rebuke of everything what he stands for. They spoke of what made Bush a great leader, which are the very traits that Trump lacks – “a gentleman, a genuine leader, one who was distinguished, resolute and brave.”
When former Senator Alan Simpson of Wyoming spoke about “loyalty to the institutions of government,” it must be incomprehensible to Trump, who sees loyalty as a one-way street, demanding loyalty but offers none in return, flouting the Constitution and trashing the institutions.
As a notorious narcissist, it’s doubtful whether the eulogies had made him feel inadequate and inspired self-reflection. There in the front pew, sat he with his arms crossed, defiant. This body language speaks volumes – he lacks decency and humanity. No wonder he wriggled in discomfort sitting next to his predecessors, whose presidential legitimacy had never been in doubt.
42
“When the history books are written,” former President George W. Bush, his son, said in a eulogy at Washington National Cathedral, “they will say that George H. W. Bush was ...
" ... a great president of the United States ...
No.
" ... a diplomat of unmatched skill ...
Nope.
" ... a commander in chief of formidable accomplishment
Nuh-uh
" ... and a gentleman who executed the duties of his office with dignity and honor.”
Okay. We can definitely give him that. And as we are learning from our current president, those qualities are more important than we thought.
2
God works in mysterious ways. The funeral of George Bush Sr. was a study in contrast between how a man of humility and class; even though I disagreed with his politics; can unite people who may disagree with him; as opposed to the pure poison and defiance of Donald Trump. One had to be deaf, dumb, and blind not to think off how Carter, Clinton, Bush Jr. and Obama led your country; with all their human flaws; to do their best for the people of both the U.S. and in general the world to a more peaceful, healthy , prosperous, and enlightened planet. Now we have a totalitarian and narcistic demagogue whose agenda is make Donald Trump the all powerful fool he has indeed become. George H.W. Bush`s final gift to humanity may have been to create a scenerio where everyone can see how far America has fallen in such a short period of time. Humanity demands BETTER!
37
GHWB funeral was deeply moving . For two hours it reminded me of respect, duty, selflessness, patriotism, and courtesy that shaped who we are as Americans, the bedrock values from which our nation rose. Of a family, of imperfect but loving members. By the end I found I was even singing along with the finale hymn. Sadly the magic ended and my continuing sadness about the nation and world ahead for my children and theirs enveloped me. Scully, all Americans all need your loyalty and comfort.
1
If you are making a national holiday for G. H. W. Bush you should have done so for McCain too. Giving the former President, a not good one I might add, does not follow Constitutional muster.
2
Mc Cain wasn't a former president. National days of mourning are normally reserved for high ranking officials only.
3
My mother, who died at age 92 in 2015, had a saying: "Never speak ill of the dead."
I am appalled at the negative comments about President George H. W. Bush. There's a time and a place for everything, and a newspaper report on a funeral is neither the time nor the place to attack someone.
Regarding Preident James E. Carter and those who are saying he's also part of what's known as the Greatest Generation," meaning those who fought in World War II, the truth is that he is not.
Carter's certainly a good man, a kind man, and was born the same year as Bush 41, but he's not part of the Greatest Generation.
Carter did not serve in World War II. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1946 with a Bachelor of Science degree and joined the United States Navy. The war had been iver for a year. He served in the Navy on submarines.
After the death of his father, a very wealthy peanut farmer, in 1953, Carter left the U. S. Navy and returned to Georgia to run his family's peanut-growing business.
Confirming that Carter was not part of the Greatest Generation is not nitpicking. It's a statement of fact. People should not be upset by this.
Carter is currently doing extraordinary humanitarian work. In stories about him, you read that he is humbled by the help he is providing for people. That's the legacy he wants.
2
Can't wait from Mr. Trump to have his turn.
7
Not sure the late 80s and early 90s really qualifies as "tumultuous" anymore... seems to me he had it easy comparitvely.
2
I have only vague memories of Pres Bush Snr's time in office but watched almost the entire funeral with great fascination and particularly enjoyed the speeches, with Senator Simpson's a real stand-out.
The contrast between the public servants of previous administrations and those of the current Trump administration could not be more stark. I am no fan of George W Bush and consider his declaration of war against Iraq to be the greatest single tactical blunder of the 21st century, but he is clearly a genuine human being, flawed but totally sincere.
I do believe his father was correct that he was led astray by people like Cheney and Rumsfeld. Not that that's any excuse, mind you.
Trump is a real anomaly. He has none of the qualities represented by the likes of Clinton, GWB, Obama et al. Of all of them flawed to be sure but still good men, at their core.
Trump simply is not. He is a petty, mean, spiteful, craven and soulless individual who will clearly sell anyone down the river for a buck. I highly doubt he learned anything from the funeral.
But when history judges HIS time in office, it will be savage, of that I have no doubt whatsoever.
6
Trump attends the Episcopal church, albeit infrequently.
Yet it seems as if he could not utter a syllable of the Apostle's creed nor sing a note of some well known hymns. Did he even open his copy of the service program to read any of the text?
Presiding Bishop Ed Browning and Bush 41 had an open working relationship; both men took pride and humility in acknowledging the position and efforts of the other.
Maybe it is time that Presiding Bishop Curry pay a pastoral call on the White House and give some instruction to Trump about the basic beliefs of the church and how to behave during a service. Maybe, just maybe, Trump might learn about worshipping something or someone other than himself.
6
@CookyMonster That would never happen, there's no money in learning basic civic and religious protocols. (Remember that Trump also has blundered the lyrics of national hymns like The Star Spangled Banner.) Curry would be just another loser to Trump.
2
That was indeed interesting read.
2
With all due respect to President Bush I would be curious to find out what the actual cost to taxpayers his funeral cost-the actual funeral cost plus the cost of giving federal workers the day off.
5
I wasn’t a huge fan of his, but he was a good man and he was president. I respected that he was doing what he thought best. Because the way he did it was respectable.
I too was wondering what this might cost. But I also believe historically significant (and good) people deserve a send off.
What I don’t like is paying for the likes of the current president to play golf at his own resort. That’s the outrage. That’s a waste of money.
4
For all the years of service he gave to this country, including risking his life in war, I don’t care what it cost. I say this as a staunch Democrat.
6
In the splendid surroundings of the National Cathedral, this was a restrained, tasteful "Commemoration" and "Farewell" for America's 41st President, George H.W. Bush - recognizing him both for the long, dedicated public service he gave, and for his many admirable qualities as a person.
Perhaps the most memorable line from the series of Eulogies came from Senator Alan Simpson : "Those who travel the highroad of humility in Washington are not troubled by much traffic" - George Bush Snr. recognized the under-appreciated value of humility, at times to his detriment politically.
May this honorable, decent American Rest in Peace, and may his Family take comfort in the reality that their Patriarch was unarguably, a Good Man...
5
RIP Bush. I didn’t vote for you and I really don’t agree with anything you did, but at least you were good and decent.
I’m curious what Donald Trump’s funeral will look like. That could be a fun drinking game for a weekend night: imagining him gone and then further imagining the garish, cringeworthy service he would demand for himself. I need a drink just to think about the tasteless schlock.
1
It was so nice to see Alan Simpson and Joe Biden together again. I hope they had time to reminisce about Bush’s nomination of Clarence Thomas and how they put Anita Hill in her place.
3
45 looked so out of place today seated next to three living former presidents. Human emotions at this time caused one to not only have empathy for the Bush family but also for 45.45 looked like the child in grade school in the play yard who had no friends to play with. 45 had to wonder about crowd size when its his turn to lay in state. Maybe tonight 45 will have an epithany and realized how he has bumbled the first two years and right himself for the remaining two.
3
45 looked like a fish out of water in that church filled with respectable, caring people - he could not even bring himself to say the prayers in the program he held; he looked bored.
5
Speaking as a Brit, I cannot but express admiration for the powerful sense of love and unity among the Bush family at yesterday's state funeral. I fear the world is gradually giving way to baser sentiments, and seeing George W. and Jeb squeezing each others hands was a heart-warming reminder of the emotional bonds and social solidarity that was referenced by speakers yesterday.
The funeral itself was impressive, a mix of grief and fond, humourous recollections, the tribute from historian Jon Meacham was sublime, and the one delivered by Briain Mulroney touching. To see James Baker weeping was to understand the depth of feeling for a President who was a truly good man, who helped steer the world through a very dangerous period.
Hopefully MrTrump will have learned something from yesterday's proceedings, but I doubt it.
8
I listened to President Bush's funeral service yesterday and found it deeply moving. I live in England and was born in the early 1960's. Throughout my life I've been a keen student of history and more recently, politics. In terms of leaders of our two nations, their have been huge highs and lows. The stand outs for me are those who put country before self, who had a desire to serve all of their citizens regardless of political affiliations. President GHW Bush was imperfect, as we all are, but as a human being and a leader, he was right up there. Such a shame that the current president is not more like him. I wonder what was going through his mind, as he was forced to sit and listen to those eulogies, full of thinly veiled rebukes to him?
52
"I wonder what was going through his mind, as he was forced to sit and listen to those eulogies"
"Thirsty ... Diet Coke ... me, me, me ... how much longer is this going to go on? Crooked Hillary--lock her up! Heh heh heh ... Mueller ... NO DON'T THINK ABOUT MUELLER LA LA LA ... Have to pee. Who are they talking about again?"
7
Trump is despised around the world, and evidently, in the pews of the National Cathedral as well.
14
I wish the Times had written a different headline. We all know that the word pomp means a dignified or magnificent display, and can be appropriately used to describe a military funeral. It also means a vain or ostentatious display. Why not a more reflective headline: "In Funeral of Warmth and Reflection, the Nation Bids Farewell to George Bush."
7
@Janezic
Agree. The word “pomp” suggests an extravagant ceremony of and by the elite, not attainable by ordinary people.
I do not believe the Bush family would describe themselves as elite and would prefer being thought of as hard working and grateful public servants.
The funeral itself was a so much a reflection of all of that....family and public service. It was warm and humorous and moving....a great tribute to a man of great character.
I can’t help thinking what Trump’s funeral will be like. Will anybody even show up?
11
"Tell the truth. Don’t blame people." made me howl knowing who was seated arms crossed in front of him, R1/S1. And the tongue lashing continued. It was everything I wanted him to hear...real values. Thank you GHW Bush for your service to our nation may you continue to laugh and love, and be loved. RIP
8
So what was the current head of our country reflecting on about his legacy while attending a more noble man's funeral today? I hope about he will be eulogized when he passes and how history will treat him?
One of the few good guys.
5
I disagree. There are many good men in the world, but most aren't famous.
2
Excellent, Peter Baker, excellent.
2
The contrast between George H. W. Bush's presidency and Donald Trump's is truly the difference between night and day.
At his inauguration, I waited for Trump to rise to the vitally important occasion. I hoped he'd reach out to everybody. He didn't. He was an angry, crude divider; a failed speaker. His foul attitude soured the day.
After Charlottesville, I waited for Trump to rise to the serious and frightening occasion. Nazis had marched in America and condemned people of the Jewish faith, which his son-in-law and daughter practice. Condemning Nazis is a slam-dunk for any good-thinking American. He waffled. He failed. He endorsed anti-semitism.
Today, I watched President Bush's funeral. I wanted him to act Presidential, to be a polite adult. To exhibit an understanding of the solemn nature of the day. He failed again to be a man of courage, a person of compassion.
He's President of all Americans, including former presidents. It was his duty to shake hands with Obama (he did), but also Clinton and Carter and to treat their wives with respect. He shook Michelle's hand, but he didn't exhibit an appreciation of the importance of the moment. Melania showed more class.
Trump is a boorish interloper, a disgrace to civility and dignity. Somber events create friendships and continue the historical traditions that make the United States great.
Two more years of his crassness, and then our country is free again. Election Day 2020 can't come soon enough.
16
@Carmela Sanford What makes you think Trump won't win again in 2020. I don't think most Americans can see how he is really doing this country well. He may not be a humanitarian or a war hero or respectful or possess any mannerisms we would expect from a President but more importantly he possess exactly what this country needs and that is the ability to put this country back together economically and to secure our boarders. Anyhow, this is supposed to be about George H W Bush not Trump. So how about honoring the man that has passed and the honorable life he lived.
1
Brian Mulroney got in a diplomatic dig against Trump over NAFTA.
I also noticed from the video how coldly the Obamas and Clintons greeted Trump. Not probably a good seating arrangement.
4
And of course, Trump has no class, doesn't greet the Clintons or the Carters, because they're Democrats?
2
How awful to see 45 sitting with his arms folded across his hard ugly heart. That is the position of being closed off and impenetrable. Unreceptive. Locked in. Small minded. Unable to receive. Look at everyone else....arms by their sides, heart and minds open to receive and feel.. I know it's the high road, but i wouldn't give that guy anything except the boot. There was plenty wrong that both Bushes did, but i never worried about their patriotism. I hope i live long enough to see him in the Rotunda and nobody comes to say goodbye. There is nothing redeeming about this cretan.
Thank you George H.W. Bush for showing us the contrast between an honorable man and a common grifter with a gift of gab and the ability to control people using fear. So disgusting , small and repulsive.
16
It's "cretin," not "Cretan," that is, someone from, say, Chania.
But I agree with your assessment.
Donald Trump gives me the shivers. He's like a bloated pod from the original "Invasion of the Body Snatchers."
("It's too late, Miles, I've already fallen asleep.")
1
I hope that all those whose comments were rude, ugly and completely in appropriate feel really good about their nastiness. One need not agree on a President's policies, but to be so truly nasty and hateful is exactly why people were honoring President Bush - we deeply miss civility. We miss the total lack today of being able to "agree to disagree".
We need to stop all the hatred. It is not helping anything or anyone.
4
The Obamas and the Clintons knew Bush 41, both personally and professionally. I trust their opinions about GHWB’s worth and integrity, just as I do their opinions of Trump’s total lack of same. I disagree with much of his politics, but I also deeply appreciate and respect Bush 41’s successes and life of service to the nation. He deserved and earned this day of tribute and remembrance.
4
I am surprised there are not more comments. Although a Democrat, and recognizing that I do not agree with all of Bush's actions, I nevertheless see his as a noble individual. There are many things to like about him, few to dislike. His decision to raise taxes, for he good of America, instead of the good of himself, was one of the most selfless things Have ever seen a president do. All should emulate him, and the world would be a better place.
Except for his position on oil drilling and usage, I would say that he was a democrat.
4
I really beautiful service to a honourable and noble human being and a president. He will truly go down as one of the greatest presidents, along side with JFK and other past presidents. Rest in peace and God bless your soul Mr president.
2
George H. W. Bush wasn't a perfect president, but who could be? It's a rough job. However it seems to me his stature has grown exponentially in the past few days simply because of the contrast between him and the current resident of the White House. The speakers at his funeral spoke movingly about Bush and grand concepts of leadership and loyalty, as they should have. I wonder if I was the only one wondering what positive things anyone will possibly be able to say at Trump's funeral one day. Seriously, is there one positive quality you can imagine anyone ascribing to him without evoking laughter? "He did it his way," I guess, even if he didn't do it very well.
4
What a rare and beautiful American moment--not since 1825 have we had father and son Presidents, and we are fortunate to have see the kind Bushes vs. the ornery old Adamses--though John Adams, like George H.W. Bush--was a nonagenarian, albeit 192 years ago.
2
Unlike the other presidents and their wives, Trump neither recited the Apostles' Creed nor sang the hymns, yet voters who call themselves Evangelical Christians overwhelmingly support him. Imagine what they would have said had a Democratic president done the same.
13
America has lost an illustrious son. Students around the globe could look into him for the true meaning of a leader. He did not rise up to the position of President overnight. He has served his country as a fighter pilot during WW II risking his life. He has served as CIA chief with dignity and devotion. He has served his country as President with great dedication. He was a complete family man. And he died peacefully.
His invasion of Iraq was well justified, though his son's is not. That he was denied second term as president is different and that is what politics is all about. May his soul rest in peace.
4
It is probably too much to ask that Trump grow a little while in office. Maybe I can settle for him refraining from tweeting during a few choice occasions, and perhaps he can avoid trashing the late Mr. Bush Sr in coming days. I hope that Is not too heavy a lift.
We are heading for for divided government, and if Mr. Trump really wants to help those ‘forgotten’ Americans he might just try to get along with his adversaries occasionally. The winners in this society don’t need him to get anything done. It’s the losers that need government to work from time to time.
5
The passing of president bush was like losing my father again, both were from Connecticut, Navy vets of the pacific theater and gentlemen. My father never raised his voice, cursed or said anything demeaning or impugned anybodys character, beliefs or background. He kept his opinions to himself except maybe when it concerned his business. He got up early everyday worked long hours and never complained about it or even displayed anger. He lived a life of service to others. Rest in peace
5
I only caught a bit of the ceremony, my stomach could not take Trump in the front row, he should not have been there. My grandfather was alive when President Bush was in office, he was a republican through and through but taught us all in the family and in fact encouraged our differences in political opinions, what mattered was that we were paying attention, were informed citizens, no matter where we ended up planting our feet. Mr. Bush reminds us all of the kind of republicans that used to have dignity, something long now. The disgrace that sat in the front row along side past presidents did not deserve to be there and serves as a reminder of how far America has fallen in dignity and honour.
5
As I read through the comments of those who watched the memorial, and consider the sad example of Mr. Trump, I am struck with th thought that he might be visited by the Ghosts of the past, present and future, ala Scrooge, and perhaps be transformed.
Nah!
3
@Jazz Paw
Dickens to the rescue. Scrooges in Washington wish their base a happy holiday season of more cuts of services, more climate denial, more reduction of the surplus immigrant population, more effort to cut health care, more benefits for the rich at the expense of the poor. It might be an idea for them to revive the old English workhouse, half there now along the border, which separated children from parents and men from women. Ho-ho-ho another year of Scrooge coming up.
When I heard the sad news about President George H W Bush last Friday night I just couldn't forget our first unexpected meeting in Beijing, China in August, 1974. From 1974-1975 Bush served as our Liaison Office Chief in Beijing, People's Republic of China. On official business I went to the Liaison Office to meet a friend of mine. While I was waiting outside the entrance, Bush and Barbara Bush just coming back from their daily bicycle rides in Beijing. He was so kind and warm and asked me to go inside the gate with them. We had brief conversation and he was so warm and kind. Later when he became the Vice-President and he invited me to a number of receptions hosted by him in DC. He was the only US Ambassador to China and became the President of the US. He love China and Chinese people. He helped greatly in improving the US-China relations during his lifetime. Chinese Americans and Chinese people should always remember him. I will always remember his friendly gestures and kindness. So was Barbara Bush. Sad both of them have left us. We need a great president like George H W Bush. It will be difficult to have another great president as George H W Bush. I watched all day on TV about his funeral service at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC. A great memorial service.
8
No shortage of leaders eager to eulogize the elder Bush. Who – pray tell – will toll the bell for Trump?
A stone faced 45 sat in the front row squirming as the praises of 41 were being sung. Inevitable that the effusive language describing HW’s character would be seen as drawing attention to the stark differences with Trump. Simple concepts like honour, decency and principle. Intended as slight or not, Trump will certainly see them as such.
I was no fan of 41 but he stood head and shoulders over 43 (which admittedly wouldn’t be hard). Herbert Walker recognized the dangers the Cheneyites posed to a weak president and to the country at large. But even Junior’s fumbling, stumbling, bumbling presidency couldn’t come close to the colossal failure of this present White House.
Among the ironies is that George W. Bush had been destined to go down in history as the worst ever president of the United States but has since been relieved of that title by Donald Trump.
I don’t know how some future administration will cope with the eventual passing of 45, but it's a eulogy I wouldn't want to have to write let alone deliver.
6
I'm not a fan of traditions and think the human instinct to treat death as something to memorialize is ludicrous, but I do appreciate how certain people, specifically Wehner and Meacham, remember this individual. It's a good story.
2
Excuse me but is it really necessary to mention President Trump's name in vain excessively? The service was to extol the virtues of President HW Bush not tear down our current president. I suppose we're all used to the msm doing so.
1
The contrast between 41 and 45 is inescapable.
3
My mother was widowed and living in our family home in Northwest Washington, DC, when she came home from church one Sunday to find her driveway had been blocked by someone probably visiting nearby Sibley Hospital. Undaunted, my 5'2" 95 pound mother proceeded to park her rather large GM car in a barely-big-enough spot on the street near her house. A man stepped up from the yard across the street and said, "Hello, I am George Bush and I just lost 50 cents because I told my friend here that there was no way you could fit that car into that space". He was CIA under Reagan and lived at the end of our street and was visiting Bill Clements, a fellow Texan who was, I believe, Sec'y of Defense under Reagan. What a charming, unpretentious, sweet man he was. Great neighbor.
54
The first hymn played as the President's coffin arrived at the National Cathedral was "The Navy Hymn". It is majestic, elegaic, and reverent. It is worthwhile to read the lyrics or listen to it sung on YouTube. We sung it at my father's funeral; he was a very young USMC officer in the South Pacific. All his life, he wondered why he survived the horrors of Tarawa, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa when so many thousands did not. It is entirely believable that Mr. Bush decided "he was saved for a purpose". My father thought so too.
14
I have cried many tears since Friday. This was a beautiful service and I admire President Bush so much for what he did for this country but most of all for his love for his family, a gentle soul.
9
As I listened to and reflected upon today’s service, I was most moved by the descriptions of President Bush - the father. The devoted husband. The loyal friend.
A man who put The Office of the President above personal gain.
I did not vote for President Obama in his first election but fully supported him once he took office. I respected his role as our Nation’s leader - a role he elequently filled.
I did not vote for trump. I wept as Hillary Clinton conceded.
My hope was the in assumption that trump would seek out and respect the opinions of others. That is what a leader does.
We know how that turned out.
My hope today is that trump will absorb some small part of what he witnessed today.
24
Since news of his passing, I've welcomed and appreciated the respect and restraint by all those currently and previously in Washington. No President is perfect, some more glaringly than others. Today's service and National Day of Mourning was a reminder that all of us are commanded to be good people and good citizens. We don't need to lead remarkable lives in order to accomplish that. Yes, there's much to be said for respect, restraint, kindness and being civic-minded. You can disagree without resorting to name-calling. You can disagree without saying a word or taking any action. You can be kind simply by doing. You can be civic-minded merely by voting. Married? Love your spouse faithfully and respectfully. Have children? Love them dearly and always. See something wrong that needs to be righted? Then YOU be part of the change that leads to the solution. Have a mouth? Use it less. Have a heart? Use it more! For kind actions are worth more than a thousand hurtful words. Let's practice respect, restraint, kindness and civic-mindedness. That, too me, is a kinder, gentler way to live.
103
@Jane D.
Beautiful! Brought to mind this quote, "Hatred corrodes the container it's carried in".
2
I never voted for George H.W. Bush during four national elections when he was on the ballot, but I respect his service to the country and patriotism. Looking back now at his Presidency, seeing what we've been subjected to over the past three years, one appreciates his competence for the job, his respect for the office. We can only hope for more public servants like President Bush.
Through all the coverage of his life, I haven't heard one mention of his disappointing selection of Dan Quayle as Vice President, shattering the public's trust. As much as Mr. Bush was experienced, qualified and ready for the highest office from Day One, Mr. Quayle was never ready for prime time, an embarrassment whose only redeeming quality, unfortunately, was in preparing the nation for Sarah Palin.
Leaders make mistakes. The nation mourns the man, but the late President Bush could never redeem himself from the debacle of Dan Quayle.
7
What are we really mourning? The passing of a former president, or the passing of a way of leadership and governance?
28
@Ralph Averill
We're mourning both but maybe looking at the kind of man he was will make all of us more careful about whom we choose to lead us.
4
I think you’ll find Bush 41 governing style still in evidence in the way Trump pardons criminals in his inner circle. Must have been inspired by Iran Contra.
2
The grace which our nation has had; has been sorrowfully losing
under the present administration....has momentarily been
revived by the example set by George Herbert Walker Bush.
I hope we can hold on to this valuable example set by our 41st
President...
5
Didn't vote for President G.H.W. Bush, either time. But as with McCain who I didn't vote for either, there is reason to respect the man and his family. It bothers me that I can't say that about the current President and don't expect to be able to in the future. Anyway, the speeches were moving and did honor to our late President. America is on the ropes but don't count her out.
15
Even in death he won. He took away the focus of media from " a certain individual ", away. I hope media keep up this trend.
15
“This was the service Mr. Bush wanted, an Episcopal send off...” Yes, the order of worship, the prayers and responses, etc. taken verbatim from the Burial Office in the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer. The ceremony (with military overlay) based on Episcopal liturgical tradition. The “national” cathedral officially the cathedral of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington. It is a denomination that prizes beauty in music and architecture, vehicles of God’s presence.
9
I for one am appalled at the waste of money and resources this show is costing. At 70 I have grown cynical of politicians. I'm sure each guy sitting on that row was thinking " How am I going to top this ? " Perhaps not Jimmy.
14
Very nice speeches, especially the one by Former President George W Bush.
8
I'd like to think that trump might consider the words of many spoken in tribute to President Bush. However, for someone who "expressed pride in himself for remaining publicly civil," the idea that he even heard the words is implausible. The idea that he would heed them is laughable.
7
What a disgusting spectacle! This man deserved only disrespect. A war criminal, ardent defender of Nixon, oil exploiter, race baiter, agent of assassination and dirty tricks. Instead of an honest appraisal we get this stupid mythology of a time when we were all united, “despite our differences.” We weren’t. We still aren’t and never will be as long as we refuse to reckon with criminals like Bush and his son.
34
@PeterC you are mixing two different ideas, that I think the article was intent on keeping separate. Sure, GHWB was a politco (he was the head of the party for goodness sake!), and along those lines acted accordingly. However, as a person, civility and graciousness were at his core. If you want to disrespect the politics, that's fair game, but I think you're going far with disrespecting the man. (Hmmm... maybe there's a lesson there for you)
I think GHWB proved during his presidency that he was not an ideology or stuck in principles, but looked out for what's best for the country. Why else raise taxes, when he promised not to? Or why not wait until the second term to do so? By the way, those raising of taxes helped to get the country out of a recession by allowing the country to get a handle on its finances. GHWB essentially Hari-Kari'ed his political career for the betterment of the country. Neither Clinton(s) nor Obama ever did anything similar, not even close and likely never will.
Finally, GWHB essentially made it so that you could express your disrespect here by approving the bill that paved the way for the internet, which in turn led directly to the prosperity of the Clinton years (Bush got zero credit).
If you want to critique one part of GHWB's history, that's fine.... But don't be so blinded in your efforts. Consider the man and his record as a whole. I think you'll find there is just as much "good" as there is "bad". But isn't that true of everyone?
4
@PeterC
A sad day still deserves the truth. Thank you for your critical, yet welcome, assessment. The saddest part of H's funeral are the eulogies for honest, balanced and civil discourse in our political system. Chilling.
1
@PeterC I agree with you on each point.
2
I'm so disappointed in my voting for Trump (or at least my protest vote against Hillary). Seeing all who attended and shedding tears of my own, i realize this administration is a daily train wreck. After all elections, i always felt regardless of the winner, they president elect were good people. GHWB was one of the best.
Beautiful service. Just can't wait for the next president soon enough. I want to be proud again.
37
Listening today to Jon Meacham and Brian Mulroney tell the story of Bush Sr in WWII, I am reminded that my father was also a flier in that war, his B17 shot down several times, and that almost everyone of my generation had a father in that war. Or a mother, or both. And I am reminded of how few are left.
Bush Sr did have a life of extraordinary service after surviving the war. He was a great man. And so was your Dad, and mine. It’s good to have the story of the one to remind us of the stories of the many.
38
I work in downtown Ottawa, the capital of Canada, within sight of our Parliament, where the Canadian flag at the top of the Peace Tower flew at half-mast today in honor of President Bush on the day of his funeral.
Mr. Bush's passing is a reminder of times not too long ago when Canada and the US were still the best of friends and trusted allies, rather than a national security threat and economic enemies. I doubt we will be as good neighbors again, but today was a solemn but positive reminder of what it was to be Presidential.
71
Hopefully our two countries can be the best of friends again - once the current present is out of office - the sooner the better!
And please know that although Trump has practically declared war in Canada, ordinary US citizens do not feel that way at all - in fact I am very much looking forward to my next visit there!
28
@Rese, having summered since the age of 3 in Algonquin Park, I consider myself Canadian as well (thanks for explaining that Toronto or Montreal isn't the capital of Canada). Please believe me, we are still the closest of friends, and the United States still stands on guard for thee, too.
15
@Rese,
Thank you so much for your well wishes, to you and to all of your fellow citizens who make thoughtful and caring posts in these threads. Especially during what might be our nation’a darkest hour.
Not only do you tolerate a vulgar, abusive and uninformed President doing his best to destroy the relationship that our two nations have built: you take it on the chin, feel sorry for those of us who are ashamed, and promise not to hold this current nightmare against us in the future.
This post, and what the Canadian Parliament have done by flying flags at half mast, are examples of true class and of what it means to be a good neighbors and good human beings. Cheers to you.
9
Alan Simpson's discussion at the memorial service on what "loyalty" meant to President Bush was probably the greatest implicit, personal rebuke today to the attending Fake President who, as we know all to well, considers that attribute as a mere "one way street" that should always lead back to him, the center of his universe. Trump truly has a remarkable talent for cheapening and debasing everything and everyone he comes into contact with. His own future memorial service could be held in a telephone booth. MAGA.
55
@John Grillo Mr. Trump's future funeral director will probably have to use the services of "Rent a Mourner" to put together a decent turnout for the event. On the other hand, there are millions who would relish observing that particular gathering. Pass the popcorn.
12
I was glued to the television for the entire service. Afterwards I asked myself “why?” I didn’t vote for the man or his son. Yet, I relished the ceremony and found myself deeply moved by the eulogies and music.
Now, I realize that we were transported, watching some of what is admirable about our country. Seeing all branches of the military carrying the flag draped-coffin; seeing Republicans and Democrats showing up to honor the office of the Presidency, seeing the care and respect we show our leaders. People of faith, people of good humor, loving families and friends. It was an honoring of a man who gave most of his life in service to the United States. You can dislike much of what he did, but still know that he did his best and comported himself with decency.
We have a President now who made fun of the “thousand points of light” speech. He admitted to not understanding what it meant because he’s the only point of light in his world. He doesn’t appreciate the light that others contribute. That concept is not on his radar screen. There isn’t a spiritual aspect to him. He is a shell. If you tried, you might be able to feel sorry for him. What was inside Trump’s head as he sat there with arms folded? Maybe he was planning his own funeral. Maybe he was counting the minutes to when he could tweet again.
Today was a lovely period of calm and peace. I wish our country could have more of that and that it didn’t take someone to die to experience it.
152
@Kathryn I caught the service on NPR with the same sense; why am I listening to this? Yet I did, and I came away with feeling of good will. H. W. was by no means a perfect man, but in many ways, that makes him so much more human. He struggled, as we all do. It was a day in which Trump was not mentioned by name, but when Jon Meacham spoke of Bush's legacy of decency, the comparison was obvious, and glaring.
49
You articulate perfectly my experience today. Thank you.
15
@Clyde
as was what his son, 43, did too.
Not by name, but by clear comparison of character and "soul".
Especially when GW quoted his father's Inaugural Address.
I'm not a fan at all, but GW did his Dad proud (me too, if truth be told)
17
A beautiful ceremony filled with honor.
I was particularly proud to see our past Prime Minister deliver a fine eulogy, well deserved by President Bush.
His son spoke the words of a very loving son. Much admiration for what he said and how he said it.
R.I.P. President Bush
54
@Claude Gravel I am very gratified that Canada had its flag at half-staff during our day of mourning in the states.
14
Wonderful eulogy by W and each one of them.
19
I thought President George H.W. Bush did his best according to his lights. I thought his son, President George W. Bush, did his worst and brought his country untold grief and hardship, not to mention the tremendous loss of life in Afghanistan, Pakistan. There seems to be no end in sight and American military personnel continue to pay the grievous price for our misbegotten involvement on the other side of the world. I do not doubt that history's verdict about Bush the Younger will be severe.
However, it is not easy to watch an old man weep as he remembers a loving father. As W. delivered a tearful eulogy about his departed sire, it was not difficult to recall that we all, all of us, will go the same way, whether we are presidents or paupers. I recalled some of my most blistering words for the 43rd president and I regretted being harshly judgmental.
The sight of another man's tears is sobering.
41
@Red Sox, '04, '07, '13, ‘18,: Bush 43 was eminently presidential and clearly cast a much longer shadow than Herr Trump who looked uncomfortable during the entire ceremony. But Bush 43 was not the man that JFK, Johnson, Reagan, Clinton, Obama, or even Carter were while in the Oval Office--or Eisenhower, Truman, or FDR. Perhaps you were harsh, but as Bush 43 explained, being criticized is part of the deal, is critical to democracy, and he certainly understands now that he didn't come close to filling his father's shoes. I am sad for his loss, but that doesn't change what he and Cheney did to all of us.
13
@Red Sox, '04, '07, '13, ‘18,
I am absolutely astonished at the comments here about "shedding tears for the departed Bush". This president was wealthy beyond belief and his son showed poor judgment on the invasion of Afghanistan not to mention the Iraqi people.. it is absolutely astonishing that people are eulogizing a man who caused so much suffering on the Iraqis and Afghans.
2
@H
FDR was closer to the people, and Eleanor Roosevelt was even closer to the people. I sent a Xmas card to Melania Trump about the Afghan people but she is too busy looking in the mirror to see if one of her hairs is out of wack. Wow. Compare Eleanor Roosevelt. During the Great Depression her husband had been having affairs, supposedly, but she had a purpose in life, not like the NARCISSISM that infects the Oval Office at this particular juncture.
3
It was a beautiful ceremony for GHWB, a humble, gracious military and civil servant to this country. It was also, however, the last gathering of the Republican Party, which today is a much different party.
Also, it was plain as day that there was one person in attendance who looked like he wanted to be anywhere else but there.
47
It seems he actually wanted to be included, until he realized what it entailed. It meant acting like an adult, but he has difficulty with it, as he demonstrated multiple times during the occasion.
What I hope is that decent Christians who voted for him noticed, and finally realize what a thoughtless person he is.
He came in and took off his coat and gave it to an attendant without saying
5
He gave his coat to the attendant without saying “Thank you”, didn’t acknowledge anyone but the two people immediately next to him, sat with his arms folded, and did not read The Apostles Creed with threat of the church. He didn’t even follow the program.
My mom would have given me that look that Mom’s give you when you misbehave in public. You know the one. You just know you’re going to get in BIG trouble when you got home.
It would have been so easy to do the right thing. Sit up straight and pay attention.
3
The legacy for George H. W. Bush is the way you live your life matters. He lived his remarkable life with courage, grace, decency, humility, with love, care and concern for those around him, and definitely showed us how he left his mark on the world making it better than the way he found it.
As Jon Meacham said today President Bush had an eloquence, steadfast heart, did his best, stayed the course, chose doing things the right way over the convenient, and heeded his best instincts. In a wonderful way his son George Bush told of his and his whole family's great love for their father, grandfather, great grand father.
It is both heartwarming and beautiful to know that Ronan Tynan the Irish tenor had the opportunity to sing for President Bush on his last day and at today's service and that the president had so many great friendships and among them were James Baker, Alan Simpson, and Brian Mulroney.
13
George H. W. Bush served honorably and with courage in WWII and for that we all should be grateful. I believe him also to have been a man who cared about his country. The death of a leader, however, should not blind us to the faults that he and we all share. There is no doubt that the radicalization of the GOP and its supporters that has now concluded with the election of Donald Trump started with the man whom George H. W. Bush served as vice president for eight years. Ronald Reagan, despite his popularity, was the seed of right-wing populism, partisanship and toxic politics. His contempt for those who disagreed with conservative politics was abundantly clear and he ran on the idea that he was there to fix America and save it from the clutches of her enemies (i.e., the liberal left). Following Reagan, George Bush foisted on the nation a political dynasty. By the time of the 2016 election, people were so fed up with these dynasties, be it Clinton or Bush, that many would rather vote for Trump. George H. W. Bush carries with him the responsibility for helping to bring America to this dysfunctional juncture in her history and that we should not forget in blind eulogy.
11
It’s so ironic. I did not much like GHWB as President. But I was never in fear of him. I always thought he was more than just a decent man, I thought he was ethical, empathetic, and genuine.
And ditto his Son. Though, I voted for neither.
Fast forward, today we have a President I truly fear. I fear his judgment, integrity, honesty, and stability.
RIP GHWB. Walkers Point is a serene spot from which to witness eternity. CAVU. Thank you for your service.
30
The Bush 41 funeral and those who spoke to honor him all knitted a common thread between them, which include honor, respect, humor and grace, something which our current president who looked like spare tire on a Ford Pinto.
Seeing the passing of our last president from the Greatest Generation, reminds me that our nation must never forget what it did to fight for world rights, a concept completely unknown to Trump. We cannot throw that away! Otherwise, we run the risk of possibly being the "bad guys" in the not too distant future.
13
My sincere appreciation to the Bush family. While I rarely agreed with your politics, you brought a much-needed and appreciated degree of dignity and majesty to this nation today. I can only hope that it doesn't require a death to bring such qualities back to our nation's capitol.
Thank you.
21
Peter, your writing is so elegant, so respectful, it makes reading even the most painful events bearable. Thank you for your work. Nancy
10
"He [Bush biographer John Meacham] also effectively explained Mr. Bush’s thousand-lights phrase to Mr. Trump, seated not far away.
"“Abraham Lincoln’s better angels of our nature and George H.W. Bush’s thousand points of light are companion verses in America’s national hymn,” Mr. Meacham said. “For Lincoln and Bush both called on us to choose the right over the convenient, to hope rather than to fear and to heed not our worst impulses but our best instincts.”"
If those comments were directed at Trump, they were not "effectively explained," because Trump is incapable of understanding a message like this. To Trump, these words would be as if Meacham were speaking a foreign language.
17
H.W. Bush, McCain, Carter... they were all to, a greater or lesser extent, before my time. One thing that seems to bind them together in my mind, however, is that they each had the capacity to weigh their own personal interests against some larger ideal and at least try for the latter. It's not just that they wore a uniform, but that it "FIT."
Understanding that Carter still lives, ceremonies like the one today demonstrate that the highest honors and praise are conferred not on those who are merely victorious, but those willing to sacrifice in service to something noble. H.W. Bush's generation had no need to declare themselves "great." Our society considered them to be so and we have said "Greatest Generation" ever since. They were hardly devoid of societal problems and even shames, yet would I... a "millennial"... presume to say I know more of sacrifice than H.W. Bush or Jimmy Carter? In the case of McCain, would my liberal views ever make me so bold as to say someone like him wasn't a hero? The answer is an unqualified "no."
To live a life of pure self-indulgence, grow old and die is pitiful. To be "elderly" is altogether different. All elders (non-veterans too) are leaders of a sort that bridge generational gaps and, sure, even a bit of understanding when I'm on my SJW soapbox. May records be truthful. But sentimentally? It feels like I have history with this person I demonstrably never knew; an urge to toast and salute him "for old times' sake."
12
The outpouring of affection for Bush '41 was in part I believe, a subtle rebuke of the current resident of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Bush was the antithesis of everything Donald Trump stands for which is mostly himself. I believe that Bush's passing has given the nation pause to reexamine where it has been and where it is going.
Perhaps in death, President Bush may be providing his most important legacy to the country, i.e., that we are better than this and we must continually strive to bring the country forward, together in common purpose. And it is the younger generations that can learn the most from Bush's passing by rejecting the partisan and hateful rhetoric now infecting our public discourse. Let us hope.
15
It was very telling to watch the current occupant's reaction during the service. There was none. He sat there, stone-faced, arms crossed, looking like he wished he were on a golf course somewhere. There was not a smile that crossed his face. He did not greet the others in the front row except the Obamas. And that was only because they were seated closest. And the eulogizers did not have to mention his name to call him out. But you could see that underneath that exterior he was seething and wishing he had his phone so he could tweet about it all and how great he was in comparison. The man has no grace, no compassion, no empathy, nothing that could make him a friend of anyone. He has no understanding of what can make a successful leader. And, no, I did not vote for Bush 41, but at least he became a more decent human being after he left politics.
44
It was nice to hear from W today after all they years, hopefully for the last time.
6
I watched the funeral but could not help pondering whether Mr Bush planned the whole funeral with Mr. Trump in his mind. Mr Trump is unlike others. He does not have a pet. He is rarely even seen with this young son. Never takes him for ride with the kid or play ball with him. Never saw him eat ice cream with his youngest son.
One day, like all mortals, Trump too shall pass. Would his youngest son give the eulogy? Or would it be only Ivanka? As narcissistic as he has been I cannot help but assume these thoughts must have crossed his mind. He certainly would be thinking of Hannity giving his eulogy. I hope the last few days touched a part of him, which we all have, a part that makes us think of what life has been to us and what we have to been to others.
10
I still can't get over the fawning coverage of Bush's death from the Times, a Republican it hated while he was in office. I guess it is their way of telling Republicans that he is an example of an acceptable Republican to them and their liberal cohorts, while the current president is not. The problem with this is that liberal house organs of the Democrat Party don't get to police the candidates of the other political parties or who members of other parties choose to run the country.
8
We did not turn on the tv today, my wife is an American who still loves her country. I suspect most NYT readers are as distressed as she is about her country and know George HW Bush was a terrible President. He was the product of his upbringing and a hierarchy that often produced men of honour whose judgement was not up to their station in life.
America is failing because men like Bush, and McCain cannot understand the hatred for America of the McConnells, Cruzes Falwells, Scalias, and Gingriches. We understood George Herbert Walker Bush to be an honourable man but we also know his failure to understand the pernicious nature of American conservatism may soon destroy a once great nation once committed to making the world a better place.
15
How I lament the candidacy of H. Ross Perot in 1992. He siphoned enough votes from President Bush to allow the venal and duplicitous Clintons into the White House.
No corrupt Clinton presidency, then probably no Bush 43 (and no Iraq War). Maybe an Obama presidency at some point but certainly no Hillary vs. Trump fiasco from 2016
It all could have been so much better...
6
George H.W. Bush was many things - a patriot, a war hero, a dedicated public servant and a mediocre president.He was perhaps more distinguished in his role as patriarch of a large and close family, By all accounts he was an honest, principled man of vales and integrity - a friend to many and a wonderful generous neighbor in the communities he resided in. Watching the tributes of his biographer, members of his cabinet and his family I was struck by the fact he was, in every sense of the word, the complete antithesis of the man who currently occupies the Oval Office and I wondered - how could the people of this land have elected such an abomination and, worse still, continue to support and endorse his racist, bigoted, hateful and self-serving actions and moral code.
8
Jon Meacham, the Pulitzer Prize-winning historian who became close to Mr. Bush as his biographer, called him “America’s last great soldier-statesman, a 20th-century founding father.”
Do they tattoo that onto anyone who receives one? I think they must so the world can never forget it. Talk about product branding.
1
Are we going to honor our remaining Democratic one term president the same way?
18
Superb reporting, sir.
4
I am upset by some bitter comments about George H. W. Bush. As a gay person who marched during the 80's and 90's as many friends died of AIDs, I could discount him, disregard his entire 94 years. But I won't. How can anyone judge another human being without first looking back in the mirror. We will never as a country trancsend the divisive partisonship if we don't stop defining others by who they vote for. Identity politics then becomes tribal which if not quelled could destroy us. All I ask of those angry at the past is to let go of it for a moment and look instead into your heart and listen to the eulogies and then read about his life.
103
My mom is 94. I remember standing by her side in 1968 as Robert Kennedy drove through our small Upstate town campaigning for president. She shook his hand, and said to me, and her friends, she would never wash her hand again.
I remember entering DC to see Clinton sworn in, watching the Bushes leave in a air force helicopter as I crossed the Potomac from Arlington. I was so happy to see the end of the Reagan era Republicans leave the capital.
Now I wish we could return to a what seemed to be a more idealistic, altruistic, genteel era, but these men from the greatest generation, were also covers for the military industrial complex who behind the scenes sent the most honorable of men into the spotlight. Eisenhower tried to warn us. Bush, Kennedy, and many others cared and loved our country, and hoped to be those thousand points of light. They were sincere, honorable, and patriotic. Farewell to my 20th century heroes, and the idealism of a more perfect union. I thank you, and miss you all.
Please pray for us, we are nation in the wilderness now.
12
@Luke, Robert Kennedy was running against the Vietnam War and had privately vowed to reopen the Warren Commission investigation into his brother's death. An investigation that even its own staffers now admit was plagued by lies and obfuscation from the FBI and CIA, something Robert Kennedy no doubt already knew.
George H.W. Bush named his oil company Zapata Oil; and the CIA name for what the world and historians now refer to as the "Bay of Pigs" invasion was Operation Zapata. Operation Zapata was hatched toward the end of the Eisenhower administration by CIA Director and Prescott Bush ally, Allen Dulles. Many people behind Bay of Pigs are on record as having been enraged by JFK's refusal to use the operation as an excuse for full land and air invasion of Cuba, and certainly for his refusal to provide air support. JFK's explanation is the CIA had completely misled him about Bay of Pigs. He soon fired Allen Dulles after this event.
Declassified CIA documents have stated George Bush was already aware of several CIA operations back in the 1950's and 60's. And "George Bush of the CIA" was debriefed by J. Edgar Hoover regarding JFK's assassination in late November, 1963.
While Bush & RFK both served in the armed forces, and thus deserve respect and gratitude for this, in terms of what their subsequent careers represented; what policies they supported; I do not think Robert Kennedy and George H.W. Bush belong in the same breath.
4
@GRH
I appreciate your extensive, articulate, and well thought out response. Perhaps I saw them as of the same generation as my parents, they both served our country, and that is where the similarities end. I understand how very differently they served our country now. Thank you.
1
To say that I was not a fan of the Bush 41 presidency is to put it mildly. But I never doubted his sincerity and decency as an individual, or that his entire career had been one of service. And like all presidents in my lifetime, he served his nation's interests as he saw them, rather than always eying his office for personal advantage and aggrandizement. Until now, that is.
trump performed a rare service to the nation by attending the funeral. For those Americans determined not to leave his bubble, the contrast between his self-serving career and those of his predecessors (all of them, not just President Bush 41) should have been an eyeopener. And I'm also wondering if today's Republican office holders who protect trump at all costs, rather than being part of the expected checks and balances, feel in the least ashamed of themselves.
17
@mancuroc, at least Trump is his own man, the Bushes, sock puppets. It all depends on who you feel about the hand inside.
One of his greatest legacies are the words said today about living an honorable life. Of being kind, of thinking well of others. The service was inspiring. We needed this.
33
Was there a moment of silence for all the people who died of AIDS due to Bush’s homophobia?
As a gay man, I find the hagiography of this homophobic bigot nauseating.
35
@Sterling I understand you too well, Sterling. But he was born in a different era and lived in different times. I thank God society has moved forward on this issue. Everyone deserves to live a happy and fullfilling life.
15
@Sterling Are you not aware that President and Mrs Bush served as witnesses of a same-sex wedding in Maine a few years ago? President Bush said he had changed his mind on this issues - that people who want to be together should be able to do so.
When we judge yesterday by the standards of today, no one comes out well. President Bush grew and changed his own ideas (which were far from unusual that most people at that time); perhaps you might grow if you did the same
23
@Sterling
As an ethnic minority who is easily indentified and has faced tremendous discrimination I just don’t agree with you.The Bush family was instrumental in addressing the aids crises in Africa.Also the narrative here is to find a way to work together.Lets use our transitional figures to get there.
13
Should we be honoring any of the last 50 years worth of our presidents? Look at the state we're in now, it didn't happen over night. What have any of these guys done but left office with the country in progressively worse shape than when they started. In any kind of real democracy would any of these people have been elected, over potential candidates who might have actually addressed the important life or death questions that are neglected, year after year? If Rip Van Winkle woke up now, what would he think about what he sees?
George Bush Sr. was an upper class prince who couldn't tell you how much a gallon of milk cost. Imagine that? And we picked him to be our leader.
He had another job, besides riding the greased skids into more wealth and power while doing the bidding of the establishment. He was supposed to raise his children to be productive contributing members of society. No one should take all the blame if their kids grow up to be ignorant fools, but it's evident George and Barbara had other priorities besides raising decent human beings.
By the way, the environment is degrading dangerously, jeopardizing future life on earth. Greatest generation in deed.
30
George's entire squad was shot down and the others all swam to an island where they were captured , tortured and killed. George was the only survivor. Picked up by a nearby US sub.... spared for a reason. RIP HW.
10
@P McGrath
Of course - for the world's oil supply. He was the first president to popularize the USA's greed and entitlement to the point we could all be fine with killing for oil.
1
A wonderfully expressed tribute to President Bush and, at the same time, report. Thank you very much. As trite as it seems often to say, "The world needs love." And in ways un-trite and quite genuine, it received this from President Bush in the many generous ways he lived his life. A person of privilege to begin with, it didn't have to be this way with him. Why? is a mysterious question, especially in a materialistic context that is so accepted. His "reward" in this though was in a subjective (and definitely not objective) sense is my guess. He was a man of uncommon generosity. To me President Bush shows that giving one's life away in service is the same as being called to receiving it, but not with some intentional motive for gain in doing so ... because real service isn't like that. And not all the time for him by any means; but enough of the time. Would his example be followed by all of us, especially as Americans in their graced opportunity for leadership.
5
George the 41st was a pleasant, competently mediocre ruler, devoid of any inspirational vision, who had the great good fortune to die at a nadir in the empire's decline. He has thus become an unlikely vehicle for an outpouring of nostalgia recalling a more orderly and predictable national life that has suddenly and recently disappeared. As a nation grieves it piously searches for meaning where there is none: just another extravagant exercise in virtuous futility as a society tumbles deeper into the dark chasm.
The great irony is that history is likely to identify the linchpin for the international chaos currently bombarding us from every direction as George the 41st's son's feckless decision to invade Iraq and permanently destabilize the Middle East -- a rash act at least in part motivated by the loyal son's perception that the tyrant Saddam had inexcusably insulted his father. In the latest manifestation of its consequences desperate Syrian refugees have flooded Europe, igniting a wave of racist national populism that threatens to overwhelm the post-war democratic order.
Meanwhile, here at the Bush funeral our home-grown aspiring tyrant sat quietly observing the ritual. A year ago apologists might have eagerly concluded that this moment of superficial calm meant he was finally becoming "presidential". But now we all know the angry pressure inside Trump is simply building to another explosion, and when he blows, the dignified Bush funeral will fade into forgetfulness.
174
We’ve had two days of peace with Trump’s silence. It’s been absolutely blissful.
35
@woofer
Thank you for cutting through the unhealthy fantasy life of much of the nation regarding GWB!
I am irritated by the pious adoration of the forgetful crowds. Reality is more important than pretending someone is better than they are.
12
@woofer THIS. I am disgusted by the adoration of everyone. Our standards I thought couldn’t go any lower that we are venerating this man. How many soldiers died because of him??? At least 4000. And then his son’s vengeance in Iraq that God knows how long we’ll be paying for!
10
Meacham-Just knew he would have to get his digs in with Trump, whom he hates. The rest of the speakers were classy, though. It was a very good and touching service.
7
@MikeH Just because Meacham mentioned all of the positive character traits, empathy, grace, kindness, sense of duty to country, family, and friends, you take it as a speech against Trump. The fact that Trump has none of these qualities is not the fault of 43 or Meacham. Maybe the fault lies with Trump and all of his followers who no longer care about these positive character traits. If you prefer a narcissist, who cares only about what's in it for him, then President George H. W. Bush was not your man.
19
@MikeH
Meacham was not the only one who according to you got his "digs" in with Trump.
All other speakers described GHW as a gentleman, a family man, one who is loyal to his friends and became friends with the man who defeated him and made him a one-termer, Bill Clinton.
Trump is anything but loyal, but requires blind loyalty from those involved in his shady dealings.
Trump, the vicious and vulgar coward, didn't even say hello to the Clintons sitting a couple of seats away in the first row.
5
And bids farewell to the real Republican Party. All that's left is the fake right wing apparatus that stole the name.
37
I am grateful that Bush was president during the end of the Cold War. That said, I hated the campaign he ran to get there. Not only Willie Horton, but the stupid flag factory visits to paint his oppopent as unpatriotic. Yes, he was a much better president that Trump on his best days, but he was also one of a line of Republican politicians to play on racial fears and inflame culture wars that has led the Republican Party to its current, dishonorable Trumpist state. Honor his qualities and achievements as President , yes, but lets not sugarcoat his political history.
148
"He garnered just 37 percent of the vote in seeking re-election in 1992, the lowest of any incumbent president in 80 years." This quote should put that election in context. Ross Perot, the conservative independent, had well over 19 million votes. The vast majority of these votes would otherwise have gone to Bush, giving him a massive election victory.
9
@Lucy T.
Just read today that there's been research since that indicates that (1) Perot's votes split fairly evenly between Clinton and Bush; and (2) a lot of the Republicans who voted for Perot likely would have stayed home otherwise. So not clear at all that Clinton would have lost w/o Perot in the race.
10
@Lucy T. As the Washington Post has reported, political statisticians have thoroughly debunked the idea that Ross Perot cost George H.W. Bush the 1992 election. Those who have voted for Perot would have more or less evenly split their votes between Clinton and Bush or would have stayed home. Clinton would have won with a majority of votes.
7
But they didn't.
I watched John McCain’s funeral and, combined with today, I feel like I’ve been spending a lot of time in the National Cathedral. But I get up early in the morning, when the sky is still dark, because I have a hunger for the higher thoughts about life which death sometimes brings. A lot has been said about the passing of a time. I see these occasions in the opposite way, though. When I hear the words in the tributes, I hear words of endurance, of strength, of ideas about our country we fight to hold on to, that are still vital, because they are decent and right, and make us a country that is special. Of course, we fall short. Of course, those we speak about had flaws, like all humans. But it gives me great hope that we hold on to these words, even in these difficult times. The only passing I see is the passing of a responsibility to those still here, and from each generation to the next. Perhaps we need to be reminded. I am thankful to be reminded today.
118
For a man known for his awkwardness with words, George W. Bush spoke very well today. Never heard him speak better.
.
Reading the text doesn't do it justice. It was warm, and funny, and deeply personal.
.
It was a graceful, beautiful, loving tribute to his father.
171
I just wish that pundits would acknowledge that President Carter was as decent, humble, honest as President GHW Bush... or even more so!
323
@Charlie Fieselman
He was.
And hopefully he will get similar national honors when his time comes.
52
@Charlie Fieselman Thank you! He's only a few months younger that 41 - and he's still around.
18
Wow, indeed, Carter is head and shoulders above Bush. Bush is getting polished up, but the stuff he did damaged the country in many ways. Carter is a humanitarian, never recognized correctly for the good man he is.
35
Just a little perspective, George H.W. Bush was our last one- term President. We have now had 3 two-term Presidents in a row. This only happened once before with Jefferson, Madison and Monroe. I think George H.W. Bush will be remembered as he himself suggested as a footnote to history, as an attempt by the American people to continue the Reagan years.
Incidentally, I voted for him for President twice.
8
@Steve, the Berlin Wall came down. The Soviet Union imploded. Both during his administration. Hardly a footnote.
trump will be less than a footnote, more like a bone spur.
7
@Steve, I am not a Republican but I think George H.W. Bush will go down in history as a great president. I had forgotten how much happened during the four years of his presidency but think he did a good job overall. I love his courage and humility, traits that aren't often on display in Washington,
6
@David J: When historians one hundred years from now list the reasons why the Berlin Wall came down and the Soviet Union imploded will they say that one reason was that in 1988 George G. W. Bush was elected President and not Mike Dukakis?
1
Chelsea and Ivanka sitting together is my America. Grace, side by side, together.
9
@R
Ivanka has "grace"? The words greed and grandiosity come to mind.
3
Peter Baker, I could expect nothing less from you than such a poignant, tender piece about the last of so many celebrations of this great president.
Your writing skills are without equal and, boy did it show. Thank you. I wasn't able to watch the entire thing, but found myself tearing up at the military majesty surrounding the transfer of the former President's coffin from the Rotunda to the Cathedral.
You added so much color to a day that mixed so much sadness with genuine affection. But you are right: this president was the last of a certain type, the "warrior statesman."
Over the past days, I've heard over and over that George H W Bush was one of the best one-term presidents--if not the best-- this nation has had.
I have to say that seems to me just about right. As was this piece of excellent reporting of the bittersweet ending of 41' s public life.
24
(Below is a corrected version of my earlier post. I incorrectly attributed our President's motivation for a parade to a N. Korean parade, when his desire actually resulted from viewing France's Bastille Day parade.)
As I watched the funeral procession and ceremony, I thought about how our current President observed a military parade and was so impressed he wanted to hold a U.S. military parade to show American might. As I watched the funeral of our late President, it occurred to me that THIS was our military parade.
Instead of providing escort to tanks and weapons, our military parade was the escorting the body of a former President to his funeral service. As I watched the processions and ceremony, I deeply appreciated the precision and beauty of our service men and women moving in concert. I recognized their honor and respect for the Office of the Presidency by the perfection in their dress, their voices in the chorus, and expertise in the instrumentals played during the service. Implicit in all the expertise and precision present in the funeral procession was its presence on the battlefield. The weapons discharged today were not intended to show might but honor; cannons were fired in salute to our late President's honorable service to his country.
Today America had its military parade. Not a parade of war but of grace, the kind of grace possible when one knows one's own strength.
80
@AGC I had the exact same thought. Thank you for expressing it so eloquently.
5
The Odious Record of George H. W. Bush
Born into a family of privilege, George Bush eagerly championed an aggressive warrior culture of “service” that supported misguided foreign adventures and encouraged the murder and killing of hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians around the world.
In his decades as a champion of a hostile American foreign policy, Bush made sure that millions around the world did not have a chance to live the full life he led.
Instead, in Vietnam, Cambodia, Nicaragua, Chile, Argentina, and the Middle East, millions of innocent civilians were shot to death, bombed by U.S. armed forces or starved, jailed or tortured by client governments backed by the Bush supported CIA.
As CIA director in 1975-76, he directed Operation Condor, the joint venture in the assassination of leftists conducted by the CIA and the US-backed military regimes in Chile, Argentina, Brazil and other Latin American countries.
Bush voted repeatedly to champion and fund the war in Vietnam. As US ambassador to the United Nations, he defended the Vietnam fiasco which led to the death of 58,000 Americans and the killing or more than a half million Vietnamese.
While vice president (1981-1989), he was responsible in the terrorist “contra” war in Nicaragua and the death squads in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, in which hundreds of thousands died.
On this day of mourning, little of this odious record will be published in the obituaries and tributes by the major media.
99
@Blake FLEETWOOD
No kidding. The whole Bush clan began with Prescott Bush. These people have committed more crimes against humanity than can be imagined. Continuing the Reagan legacy.....good grief. Ronnie was incompetent and completely devoid of reasoning for years. We one termed GHWBush out for good reason.....rip and take your legacy with you......
31
@Blake FLEETWOOD
Pres Bush ensured millions of people around the world, especially in Eastern Europe, could enjoy the blessings of liberty.
Several other nations around the world, including several in South and Central America, are free — not perfect, mind you — because of Pres Bush’s efforts. Failed efforts in Nicaragua and Venezuela show the bankruptcy of totalitarian leftism and their supporters in free nations. That many wish they were more like a rancid Cuba is telling.
Indeed, Pres Bush voted to fund the war in Vietnam while others were more than happy to undermine a noble effort to defeat a ruthless Stalinist state — North Vietnam — intent on subjugating the population of South Vietnam, and which invaded and imposed communist totalitarianism in Cambodia (our efforts there were designed to destroy NVA sanctuaries) and Laos.
As for Central America, centuries of societal dysfunction would not be fixed by the imposition of a Cuban-syled police state. American efforts there prevented that from occurring. Why some prefer the state-imposed penury and lack of liberty as in Cuba is a mystery.
George H. W. Bush was a patriot. Thank him when you get the chance.
11
Thank you for pointing this out. The truth needs telling.
8
A beautiful tribute to one of our Presidents!
I am sure President Bush felt he was extending a great gesture of unity by inviting Trump. Here's the deal. Men like Trump will internalize this as validation for who he is, how he acts and reacts. The Obama's are gracious people and would never refuse an outstretched hand I am sure. However, if people could know how important it is for people like Trump to experience the FULL consequences of his being on this planet, (the same as we all do and will), we may be more willing to tolerate the pain of allowing other people the misery that they themselves created. Having said that, Trump will NEVER change and this is what people do not understand about some in positions of power. They are not our best and brightest in many cases and we need to be more discerning before we vote or elevate anyone into those positions. Character matters, morals matter, ethics matter. Not that people are not allowed their youthful "mistakes," but if an adult shows and exhibits such qualities as Trump has, we can be rest assured that he is and will always be who he is. I grew up listening and watching him and have always felt (dare I say) repulsed my him. As I grew older and wiser, I understood exactly why I had such a visceral reaction to him.
May President Bush rest in peace and may his gracious nature be carried into our next President and may we be more discerning and cautious about who we invite into such an elevated space.
50
I watched with tears. I didn't vote for him, but I respected him nonetheless. His honesty, earnestness and grace that he walked through his presidency is, sadly, a dying commodity. Obama walked with pride and humility, much like Bush Sr. When Bush Jr. fumbled around for the locked door, you could hear his father's lighthearted joshing, even if only in our minds. Clinton walked among the people with a gracious smile and when he was on Arsenio Hall's show we all watched knowing he was a man of the people. Carter cut from the same cloth and even now exudes the "every man" ideology that wins people over. All these men who honored G.H.W. Bush today were men of honor and dignity. They weren't without scandal, but they handled that without resorting to nasty innuendo, threats and outright bald faced lying. They were presidents. Let's remember what it was like to have a president, even as we mourn the loss of Bush Sr. Just my humble opinion for all that it's worth.
76
The Times headline describes the ceremony as "somber." I watched the funeral, and it seems a very inept choice of word. In addition to including quite a few moments of laughter, the overall tone was one of love & warmth & respect for a man who - though imperfect - was profoundly admirable in many respects.
Besides, this was a Christian funeral. Pres. Bush was Episcopalian (which explains the presence of Presiding Bishop Michael Curry... who preached at the Prince Harry's wedding to Meghan Markle). And a Christian funeral always points to the promise of the resurrection and is therefore imbued with joyful expectation. In this case, the choice of readings from Scripture and the hymns (e.g., For All the Saints) certainly did that.
In short, there was nothing "somber" about it. May he rest in the loving arms of the God who created him and welcomes him home.
38
Thank you Peter, for authoring such a well written, balanced article.
18
My man Obama was there. Trump was there. The kid that beat him, Clinton was there. He left a good legacy. Every American should be proud. May he RIP. In the meantime, our own Madiba died just five years ago. Mr Bush Snr. was one of the first to welcome Mr. Mandela after he was released from prison.
22
As I watched the funeral procession and ceremony, I thought about how last summer our current President observed the North Korean military parade and was so impressed he wanted to hold a U.S. military parade to show American might. As I watched the funeral of our late President Bush, it occurred to me that THIS was our military parade.
Instead of providing escort to tanks and weapons, our military parade was the escorting the body of a former President to his funeral service. As I watched the processions and ceremony, I deeply appreciated the precision and beauty of our service men and women moving in concert. I recognized their honor and respect for the Office of the Presidency by the perfection in their dress, their voices in the chorus, and expertise in the instrumentals played during the service. Implicit in all the expertise and precision present in the funeral procession was its presence on the battlefield. The weapons discharged today were not intended to show might but honor; cannons were fired in salute to our late President's honorable service to his country.
Today America had its military parade. Not a parade of war but of grace, the kind of grace possible when one knows one's own strength.
22
@AGC
Wow. Incredible comparison, beautifully written. Thank you for pointing out this truth.
1
Over the last 72 hours America has witnesses the pageantry and celebration of the life of a true American President.
Our nation in hind sight recognizes the value of an occupant of the Oval Office, who sacrificed for our economy, told the truth more than not, never committed adultery, and was observed by hundreds of millions to be sane.
It was moving to watch the American people stand for hours in a cold winter night, simply to pay their respects in the Rotunda.
20
On your home page you headline the service as "somber" but it was largely moving, a welcome reminder that the Trump era will pass and that all presidents are like the rest of us, flawed human beings.
16
@Stephen C. Rose
".....all presidents are like the rest of us, flawed human beings".
Unfortunately the word "flawed" in the same sentence with Trump is an understatement par excellence.
5
I am reminded of the Carole King song “so far away - “doesn’t anybody stay in one place anymore?”
Today was a reminder of the place we used to be in, and it took President George H.W. Bush’s funeral and eulogies to do that. For a brief, bittersweet couple hours we could let ourselves wander back to when there was true humor in politics, which was spoken over and over about this man. He could laugh and even at himself comfortably. We remembered military service honored, thinking about pictures of our fathers, and husbands and other family members, sitting on top of our TV’s or dining room hutches, when we heard about his service as a pilot. We thought about the fun we used to have fishing or enjoying nature when we heard how sort of wreckless Bush could be with his boat. We rejoiced reminiscing about old friendships that lasted years, and years, and still so, because those friendships are and were true, and everlasting, like his. We relived honor and tradition watching the care and the security Mr. Bush was given as the honor guards transitioned his body, never faltering. And we felt love, love of husband and wife, love of family and love of fellow man, freely given by the attendees we recognized from so many years of our lives.
President Bush will be laid to rest soon. His travels to DC are over at last. He will finally go home. We admire the Bush family, whether we agree politically or not. They showed poise, class, respect today. But mostly, they showed us love.
40
@MIMA
Poise, class and respect? Remember how Dubya responded to Katrina?
Methinks not.....
Remember his response to 911?
Man you got it totally wrong. Congratulations.....
14
@Draw Man
Reading comprehension seems not to be your forte.
MIMA wrote [the Bush family] showed poise, class and respect today. But mostly. they showed love.
I did not vote for Bush, but am grateful that he was the president who tore down the Wall between my native "West Berlin" and "East Berlin", and shortly afterwards the Iron Curtain without a shot having been fired.
3
Was it me or were there a few subtle digs from the podium? Or are we just at a time that any words about kindness and honor fly in the face of our current potus?
57
@Kanaka, I think it's just that Bush Sr. was the exact opposite of our current president, so extolling his virtues just naturally seemed like a slap at Trump.
5
@Kanaka NOT subtle. Esp Meacham who spends his time on cable shows spewing his hatred for Trump pretty much daily. Bushes probably picked him for that reason..
Lifelong Democrat here. But Bush was OUR President, first and foremost.
My sincere and deep condolences to his Family and Friends. Only one word needed to sum him up : Decent.
79
@Phyliss Dalmatian
I was in the military during the first gulf war when your decent man was willing to have us kill many people "to protect the world's oil supply". Bush mainstreamed US "decency" as killing for oil. Since then we've killed fo profit and just for fun (see W / Cheney). It's all ok and decent by US standards now.
2
Gone are the days when both parties had principles. They had differences of opinion, but didn't see themselves as zealots. When I remember GHW Bush and Alan Simpson, I see them as akin to moderate Democrats today. How far right the GOP has strayed, and how disrespectful they've become. Even Dubya, who was not a good president, had more compassion and even intelligence than the current buffoon-in-chief.
I mourn that America that no longer exists.
36
@D. Gable
And the sad reality is that even patriots like the very liberal George McGovern — or even JFK — would be rejected by today’s far-left Democrat Party.
A very moving ceremony, made more so by the contrast between Mr. Bush and the wonderful, humanistic qualities attributed to him and the life he lived, and the frowning, orange personage sitting in the front row who embodies none of these and advocates for the opposite.
R.I.P. Mr Bush and the "kindler, gentler" times you embodied.
35
"But with the passage of time, Mr. Bush has become one of the most admired occupants of the Oval Office"
This is the current President's legacy, elevating all who went before him, whether average or exceptional.
114
I watched the service today and felt how much I have missed the emotional strength of a shared national experience of appreciation and respect. Nations need the public mythology of being able to honor their departed leaders. I, too, felt that George H.W. Bush was a decent and caring person. It was interesting to compare this quote from Alan Simpson about loyalty flowing from GHW Bush to others with the loyalty that our present leader demands flow toward himself. "Former Senator Alan Simpson, Republican of Wyoming and a longtime friend of the former president, said Mr. Bush could have just one letter as his epigraph, L for loyalty. “It coursed through his blood,” he said, “loyalty to his country, loyalty to his family, loyalty to his friends, loyalty to the institutions of government and always, always, always a friend to his friends.” How much more valuable is loyalty earned and freely given compared to loyalty demanded and not reciprocal.
85
"As with any funeral, Mr. Bush was venerated in death in ways he was not always in life."
Veneration in death is not unworthy, for every mortal has something that someone will remember as a virtue.
To write of former presidents in such expansive veneration, however, is not how it always has been. Not the funerals of Truman nor of FDR, not even that of Lincoln contained the notable pomp of this one.
And, yes, the writer is accurate to say of this late president he was not venerated this way in office, nor afterward.... Few have been.
What we see in the great spectacle of the National Cathedral today is nothing short of a requiem for a republic. When our country is modest in its public ceremonies we can be surer of the strength of our institutions. When we are less sure, then is when we become extravagaant with speeches, anthems and great vaulted ceilings of our most imposing churches.
When a fallen leader can go away to his final resting place with simple dignity like that of Harry Truman from his modest home in small town Missouri, then we can know we've achieved something in and for this Republic.
49
However great President Trump's deficiencies, he has done the country one great service, and that was to end the Bush and Clinton dynasties. The country is much the better for it.
6
@Cyclist: I guess it depends on what replaces the dynasty. Personally I would prefer either Jeb Bush or Hillary Clinton be President.
59
I am reminded of the myopic doctor who declared, "The operation was a success, but the patient died."
35
@Cyclist
obama ended those dynasties. can't give the black man credit for anything can you?
34
As an officer of the Navy he was braver than most, he went unquestioning into combat and fought to preserve and protect us all.
As an officer of the nation he was less principled than most, he witnessed circumvention of our Constitution and chose to go along, that weakened us all.
16
A fitting tribute to an eminently decent man who brought a wealth of experience to the Presidency and conducted himself with dignity and honor. Would that our nation return to the values he exemplified.
40
I was born the year 41 was sworn in so I don’t have any memories of him being my president. However after reading about his history and watching his funeral today, I hope I live my life in such a way that my friends and enemies have similar feelings towards me. As an American, I’m glad we can disagree and argue and I hope we use our ability to overcome our differences to move forward and become a better nation.
Trump was sitting in the front row and heard every word about working together and serving the greater good. I hope he reflects on some of those eulogies.
230
@Brian Phair
I'm sorry, but Trump sat impassively, and since his attention span is limited to 5 minutes, the other hour and 55 minutes of the service was lost upon him. He will most likely resume his loathsome tweeting by this evening.
72
@Brian Phair
I would dearly love that you are correct about Trump reflecting on today’s eulogies.
But I have no hope that he will. He has shown over and over again that he simply cannot behave normally.
23
@Brian Phair
I too could hope that Trump might reflect and learn from today's eulogies. But, I like others, know that Trump truly lacks the capacity to love or honour anyone but himself.
20
I stood with my parents on the Grand Concourse in the Bronx as a young boy in 1962 when President Kennedy's motorcade drove by and my dad, a WWII veteran, impressed upon me the momentous nature of the occasion. I cried a year later when Pres. Kennedy's flag-draped casket was slowly pulled by a team of horses during his horrifically tragic funeral. Yet, now 55 years later, it is hard to fathom that George H.W. Bush was just 7 years younger than JFK and similarly a WWII war hero, similarly lauded by family and friends, albeit at the grand age of 94. What a contrast to what we are now living through, a daily barrage of lies, deceit, and disgraceful conduct by the current occupant of the White House. Maybe, just maybe, the grandeur and decency of our recent departed politicians, McCain and Bush, will somehow seep back into what used to be a Washington of differences, but conducted with a modicum of decorum, before the Gingrichian onslaught of hate and calumny.
111
What a subtle yet unmistakable rebuke of Trumpian foreign policy by George H. W. Bush in having Prime Minister Mulroney as a eulogizer at his funeral. France, Canada, and the UK are our oldest best friends yet have been trashed by the current president. However, each speech today tactfully refocused the nation's attention on the better trans-partisan angels of our nature, community, and place in the world.
Some are saying that Bush's last and, perhaps, greatest act of public service was to die during this administration. The nation and world have been forced to stop and witness in him what really made America great: our openness, our generosity, our values, our ability to correct course and evolve, and, most importantly, our friendships in the world.
Each administration is ultimately ephemeral. The future seemed dark the night I trudged home from working the polling place in 2016. But the night is getting on with twilight winds of change picking up and dawn will soon follow. Democracy is being rocked to its foundation but I now believe it will survive, thanks to those who've gone before. I didn't vote for him but after seeing him speak in a surprisingly intimate gathering at the Kennedy Library in 2000, I came to respect President H. W. Bush. And I really appreciate his final, noble gestures of hope.
144
The honor and dignity he brought to the White House is one that is so missed today. Regardless of your political persuasion, his type of leadership is so sorely needed now and I can only hope that politicians on both sides of the aisle will stop and think how they are treating each other. If only they can become 1% of who he was we would be a better county.
33
This was a wonderful ceremony to honor a great man. Love him or hate him, George H. W. Bush was the last of the "greatest generation" presidents. He was a Republican who was willing to put the needs of the nation, its people, and the world, ahead of his own personal agenda. A man who had string ethics and morals. And, a man of high ideals, duty and service.
Much of this described George H. W. Bush in the various eulogies. He was not perfect. He did rub some people the wrong way. But, he was willing to work for what he thought was for the good of this country. Even accepting raising taxes, knowing full well it was political suicide.
Sitting in the front pews were Presidents George W. Bush, Trump, Obama, Clinton and Carter. With teh exception of Trump, the rest understood what duty, honor, country, moral and ethics were. Clinton less so than the others. But, many of these eulogies sent a message to Trump. A very loud message.
All the messages discussed unity, ethics, morals, and putting the needs of the nation ahead of one's personal agenda. That treaties and agreements should be honored. That the success of America, in the world, was helped by having strong allies. That personal gain, greed, and lust for power have no place in out=r politics, our president or our politicians. Finally, that a strong democracy is built upon sacrifice, consensus and bipartisanship.
This was George H. W. Bush.
One has to wonder if Trump, and today's GOP, got the message.
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@Nick Metrowsky
Clinton less so than the others, eh? Worse than Bush 43, whose decision to Iraq was based on outright lies (WMDs, anyone?)? A war that has permanently destabilized the Middle East, cost hundreds of thousands in American and Iraqi lives, and left the country trillions of dollars poorer. Clinton, whatever you may believe his faults are, left the United States at peace, prosperous and with budget surpluses at the end of his two terms. Please spare us your selective moral indignation, particularly in light of the ongoing disaster currently occupying 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
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@Ron Landers
For the record, Clinton was impeached for lying under oath. It is for that reason I used the phrase, I did.
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I think it's appropriate to include Jimmy Carter as a member of the so called "greatest generation". He and GHWB were born in the same year.
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