George Bush senior: Donald Trump announces national day of mourning following death of former president

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Sophie Williams1 December 2018

President Trump has announced a national day of mourning following the death of former president George H.W Bush.

Bush family spokesman Jim McGrath said he had died shortly after 10pm on Friday US time, eight months after the death of his wife Barbara Bush.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said: “The President and First Lady were notified late last night of President George H.W Bush’s passing.

“The president will designate Wednesday 5 December as a National Day of Mourning.”

Ms Sanders also confirmed that Mr Trump and first lady Melania will attend the funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington DC.”

George Bush senior pictured with German chancellor Angela Merkel
AFP/Getty Images

President Bush Senior was the nation’s 41st president from 1989 to 1993, and eight years later watched his son George W Bush become the 43rd president.

The elder Mr Bush saw his popularity swell with the United States' success in the Gulf War in 1991, only to watch it evaporate in a brief but deep recession.

The Republican was defeated in his bid for a second term by Democrat Bill Clinton.

Mr Bush had also been a World War II hero, Texas congressman, CIA director and Ronald Reagan's vice president.

George W Bush said his father was a "man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could ask for".

In a statement, he added: "The entire Bush family is deeply grateful for 41's life and love, for the compassion of those who have cared and prayed for Dad, and for the condolences of our friends and fellow citizens."

US President George Bush delivers the opening ceremonial pitch at the Houston Rangers vs. Milwaukee Brewers game at Arlington Stadium
AFP/Getty Images

Current US president Donald Trump said Mr Bush had "inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service".

In a joint statement with wife Melania, he said: "Through his essential authenticity, disarming wit, and unwavering commitment to faith, family and country, President Bush inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service - to be, in his words, "a thousand points of light" illuminating the greatness, hope and opportunity of America to the world.

"President Bush always found a way to set the bar higher."

He added: "Along with his full life of service to country, we will remember President Bush for his devotion to family - especially the love of his life, Barbara.”

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