Arizona lawmakers in attendance for H.W. Bush’s memorial service in DC

PHOENIX — A handful of Arizona lawmakers were present when the nation bid one final farewell to former President George H.W. Bush, who died last week at the age of 94.

U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake, U.S. Reps. Andy Biggs, Debbie Lesko, Martha McSally and Tom O’Halleran and Gov. Doug Ducey were in attendance at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.

The lawmakers shared their condolences and their experiences surrounding the Wednesday event on social media.

What a beautiful service for a wonderful man. pic.twitter.com/ByVj3Z7IQq

— Jeff Flake (@JeffFlake) December 5, 2018

Former President George H.W. Bush left the U.S. Capitol for the final time this morning. Thank you for your service to this nation. #Remembering41 pic.twitter.com/hWJOdmLPdL

— Rep Andy Biggs (@RepAndyBiggsAZ) December 5, 2018

At National Cathedral for President George H. W. Bush memorial service.

— Debbie Lesko (@DebbieLesko) December 5, 2018

This morning I attended President George H.W. Bush's funeral at the National Cathedral. It was a touching memorial to a man of great honor and integrity. I join the nation in mourning his passing, and my prayers are with his family and loved ones. https://t.co/WOGMVqqTdQ

— Rep. Tom O'Halleran (@RepOHalleran) December 5, 2018

This morning, I paid my last respects to President Bush in the Capitol Rotunda.

Today's service was beautiful and honored a man of exceptional integrity, courage, wit, and compassion.

I was blessed to have met him as a Cadet, and serve under him as my Commander in Chief. pic.twitter.com/0lyzSh5JlT

— Martha McSally (@RepMcSally) December 5, 2018

President George H.W. Bush served our country for decades — from WWII to the Oval Office. Today, I’m headed to Washington, D.C. to join Arizonans & Americans from around the nation to honor the life of our 41st president & pay respects to a true American patriot. #Remembering41

— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) December 4, 2018

President Donald Trump was also present at the ceremony, sitting with former Presidents Barack Obama, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton and their spouses.

Looking forward to being with the Bush family. This is not a funeral, this is a day of celebration for a great man who has led a long and distinguished life. He will be missed!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 5, 2018

Trump shook hands with Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama, who greeted him by saying “Good morning.” Trump did not shake hands with Bill and Hillary Clinton, who looked straight ahead.

Bill Clinton and Mrs. Obama smiled and chatted as music played. Carter was seated silently next to Hillary Clinton in the cavernous cathedral. Obama cracked up laughing at someone’s quip. Vice President Mike Pence shook Carter’s hand.

A military band played “Hail to the Chief” as Bush’s casket was carried down the steps of the U.S. Capitol, where he had lain in state. Family members looked on as servicemen fired off a cannon salute.

His hearse was then driven in a motorcade to the cathedral ceremony, slowing in front of the White House. Bush’s route was lined with people much of the way, bundled in winter hats and taking photos.

The national funeral service capped three days of remembrance in Washington before Bush’s remains return to Texas on Wednesday for burial Thursday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

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