The 38th President of The United States of America, Gerald R. Ford was remembered on Tuesday for what he didn't have — pretensions, a scheming agenda, a great golf game and the small-town authenticity he brought to the presidency.
The state funeral moved from Washington to Grand Rapids, Ford's final homecoming. The marching band from the University of Michigan, where he played football, greeted the White House jet carrying his casket, members of his family and others in the funeral party.
An elaborate service at the Washington National Cathedral unfolded in the spirit of one of its musical selections — "Fanfare for the Common Man" — as powerful people celebrated the modesty and humility of a leader propelled to the presidency by the Watergate crisis that drove his predecessor Richard Nixon from office.
"In President Ford, the world saw the best of America and America found a man whose character and leadership would bring calm and healing to one of the most divisive moments in our nation's history," President Bush said in his eulogy.
Marine Lieutenant Colonel "Whopper" Creedon said, "I'm always saddened by the loss of a President, well the Republican ones anyway".
5 comments:
Let's see how many attend yours Colonel!
Happy New Year!
Bah, Ford only got in because he agreed to pardon Nixon as his first presidential act in a shady backroom deal. Justice truly died that day. No wonder he is your hero, Lt.Col
Guns, around here we've taken to calling the former Colonel, Lt.Col to constantly remind him of his shameful reduction in rank.
Ah Dick Nixon, how quickly the world turns on someone for a "minor infraction". I know how he felt.
That all depends on your definitions of minor and infraction. Also, Nixon was the first to define himself in criminal terms, in his iconic, "I'm not a crook" speech.
Shot himself in the foot so to speak.
Just like when you, Lt.Col where found to be "Not Guilty" instead of "innocent", again completely different meanings.
I'll admit you have a point. But's it's best not to dwell on semantics...
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