FREDERICKSBURG Texas —  The National Museum of the Pacific War honored the life of former President George H.W. Bush with a memorial service in the museum's Presidential Plaza.

  • George H.W. Bush’s last visit to the museum was in 2009
  • People reflected on his last visit
  • The community circled around Bush’s monument

On Wednesday dozens from the small Texas community circled around the late president's monolith, which honors his service in World War 2.

"This is a president who served America in an exemplary way," said Sherry Freeman during the service.

Freeman met George and his wife, Barbara Bush when they visited Midland, Texas, in the late 1970s. Freeman said the couple would visit every few months.

"She always said to me, 'Don't call me Mrs. Bush, you call me Barbara,' and I'd say, 'Yes ma'am, Barbara," Freeman said.

Through tears, many managed to smile during the somber service. President and CEO of the Admiral Nimitz Foundation, Gen. Michael Hagee also reflected on the couple’s visit to the museum in 2009.

"We just talked about friends and family as we walked through the museum," Hagee said.

It was during that visit the museum would dedicate the George H.W. Bush Gallery to the former president. Now, it serves as a tribute.

"I call tell you that the people here will remember him," Hagee said.

Many remembering a president that made this Texas town proud.