UPDATE:
Happy 88th birthday, Mr. President.
Original Post:
Whatever one may think politically of George H. W. Bush — or for that matter of the Bush dynasty in general — kudos to Bush 41 who, at almost 90, continues to celebrate life with gusto and tenaciousness.
As Robert Stein notes, “George H. W. Bush turns 88 this week with a family clambake in Kennebunkport, an HBO special and, despite Parkinson ravages, plans to skydive again at 90.”
Good for you, Mr. President!
The photo above shows the former president being greeted as he arrives aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). Bush, his wife, Barbara, their son, former President George W. Bush, and other family members toured the carrier just off the coast of Maine, where the family has a home. George H.W. Bush is the newest aircraft carrier in the fleet. (U.S. Navy photo)
USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) is the tenth and final Nimitz-class super carrier of the United States Navy. She is named for George H. W. Bush, who was a naval aviator during World War II.
USS George H.W. Bush hosted its namesake and his son, former President George W. Bush, for a promotion and reenlistment ceremony off the coast of Kennebunkport, Maine, June 10.
Former Presidents George H.W. Bush, center, and George W. Bush, left, make their way across the flight deck of USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin J. Steinberg)
“It’s a great honor to be out here,” said George H.W. Bush. “I’m thrilled to be on this vessel that bears my name, and I’m very proud of all of those that re-up’d for service to our great country.”
According to the Navy:
The ship’s sponsor, Doro Bush Koch, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, and other members of the Bush family accompanied the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier during a regularly scheduled training evolution to encourage the crew and raise morale.
While onboard CVN 77, the former presidents presided over a mass reenlistment, enlisted advancements, and officer promotions. This ceremony was the highlight of the visit and the crew to expressed their gratitude towards the ship’s namesake.
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Following the ceremony, both former presidents took time for photographs with the crew before George W. Bush and family members toured the ship. Throughout the tour, the 43rd president took time to meet Sailors and thank them for their service.
For many crewmembers, this was not only their first opportunity to meet the ship’s namesake, but also two former U.S. presidents.
The author is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and a writer.