WASHINGTON – The nation is saying a formal farewell to the 41st president, George H.W. Bush, who died at the age of 94.

  • George H.W. Bush lies in state at U.S. Capitol
  • Funeral service set for Wednesday
  • Will then be flown back to Texas

The casket carrying the remains of President Bush arrived in Washington D.C. on Monday aboard an aircraft that often serves as Air Force One. Bush’s son, the 43rd president, George W. Bush, his wife Laura Bush, and other members of the Bush family joined the flight.

Bush is now the 32nd person to lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda. The occasion has been named “Special Air Mission 41.”

As the casket arrived, President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump paid their respects along with Vice President Mike Pence.

"So we mourn with those who mourn and grieve with those who grive. But we do not greive like those who have no hope," said Pence at the memorial. "President George H.W. Bush had that hope. He is faith sustained him throughout his life of service and we pray that that faith will be a source of comfort."

The public is invited to say goodbye to the former president at the U.S. Capitol until Wednesday morning. A funeral service is set for Wednesday at the Washington National Cathedral. President Donald Trump is among the dignitaries who plan to attend.

After the service, Bush will be flown back to Texas. Another memorial will be held in Houston for family and friends. A train will then take the casket to College Station, where he will be buried at his presidential library alongside his wife Barbara Bush and daughter Robin. 

REMEMBERING GEORGE H.W. BUSH