Prime Minister
On behalf of the Government and people of Australia, I convey my deepest condolences to the American people on the passing of the 41st President of the United States of America, President George Herbert Walker Bush.
The President’s life was one of service, to his country and to his family. A member of the Greatest Generation, he was the last veteran of World War II to be elected President of the United States. In the course of his extraordinary life he was a navy aviator, businessman, Congressman, Ambassador, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, Vice President and President. He was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather and of course, husband to the wonderful, late Barbara Bush.
President Bush was the embodiment of the values of the United States, standing up for what was right and fighting throughout his life for freedom from tyranny and oppression in any guise. In fighting for these values so cherished by both our nations, he was a true friend to Australia and it was Australia’s honour to host him at the Australian Parliament in 1991.
The President’s civility, charm and warmth endeared him to his nation and to people everywhere, making him loved as much as he was admired and respected. We join with the American people to mourn his passing.