Bob Dole, who lost a fierce battle for the 1988 Republican presidential nomination toGeorge H.W. Bush, honored his former opponent at the Capitol Rotunda.
In an emotional scene on Tuesday, the former Senate Majority Leader, 95, was helped out of his wheelchair to salute the 41st president, who laid in state for the second day. With assistance from an aide, Dole was lifted into standing position and steadied at the casket’s side before paying his respects to Bush with a salute to his fellow World War II veteran.
“Just incredible. Thank you Senator Dole,” Bush’s son Jebtweeted.
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Bush is the first president to lie in state since the death of Gerald Ford in 2006. Including Bush,only 32 people have ever lain in state in the Rotunda, including Sen.John McCainearlier this year.
On Monday, the former commander-in-chief’s children, including sonsGeorge W. Bush, 72, Jeb Bush, 65, Neil Bush, 63, and Marvin Bush, 62, as well as daughter Dorothy Bush Koch, 59, attended the state funeral. Vice President Mike Pence, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell shared their condolences in their speeches. In addition, all sitting U.S. Supreme Court justices and members of Trump’s cabinet were in attendance.
Bob Dole and George H.W. Bush.Cynthia Johnson/Liaison
Hours later, PresidentDonald Trumpand First LadyMelania Trumppaid their respectsas well.
Bush’s body will remain on the Lincoln Catafalque in the Capitol Rotunda through 7 a.m. ET Wednesday, as it will stay open to accommodate public mourners.
Bush’s state funeralwill be heldat the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday at 11 a.m. ET. In a presidential proclamation, Trump declared that Wednesday would be dedicated to Bush’s memory and that flags should be lowered to half-staff in his honor for 30 days.
source: people.com
