Death and state funeral of George H. W. Bush facts for kids
On November 30, 2018, George H. W. Bush passed away at his home in Houston, Texas. He was a very important leader for the United States. Bush served as the 41st President of the United States. Before that, he was the 43rd Vice President of the United States. He also led the CIA and was a member of the House of Representatives. His death came about eight months after his wife, Barbara Bush, passed away in April.
George H. W. Bush was the first president to die since Gerald Ford in 2006. At 94 years and 171 days old, he became the longest-living U.S. president ever.
Soon after the news of his death, on December 5, 2018, Donald Trump declared a National Day of Mourning. He ordered all flags across the country to be lowered to half-staff. This was a sign of respect for the former president.
The U.S. Government held an official state funeral for him. He was laid to rest at the George Bush Presidential Library. The funeral events took place over four days, from December 3 to December 6, 2018.
Honoring a Former President
When a former president passes away, special traditions are followed. The students at major military academies are told officially. This includes the Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Navy academies.
Very early on December 1, 2018, the flags at the White House were lowered. This was a sign of respect and mourning.
A National Farewell
Before his death, President Bush had made plans for his funeral. He wanted a special flyover by Air Force fighter jets. These jets would fly in a "missing man formation." This is a special tribute where one plane leaves the formation.
He also planned for his final burial to be at the George Bush Presidential Library in College Station, Texas. This library holds many of his important papers and items from his time in office.
President Bush also arranged for a national funeral service. This important service was held at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.. Many leaders and people from around the world attended to pay their respects.
Images for kids
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The United States flag is lowered to half mast aboard USS George H.W. Bush on December 1, 2018.
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A VC-25 of the 89th Airlift Wing departs Ellington Field, Texas on December 3, 2018, carrying the remains of George H.W. Bush to Washington for the state funeral.
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The casket carrying George H.W. Bush's remains arrives at Joint Base Andrews on December 3, 2018.
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Members of the public pay their respects Monday evening, December 3, 2018, at the casket of former President George H. W. Bush lying in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol.
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President Trump and former presidents Obama, Clinton, and Carter along with their respective wives pictured during the memorial service at the National Cathedral on December 5, 2018.
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The casket containing the remains of George H.W. Bush is removed from the National Cathedral following the memorial service on December 5, 2018.
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Artillery at Fort Drum, New York fires the Salute to the Union – 50 successive artillery rounds – marking the end of the burial day on December 6, 2018
