World leaders pay respect to George H.W. Bush

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Europe

On Wednesday, a funeral service for former U.S. President George H.W. Bush took place at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., with many world leaders in attendance to pay their respects.

As bells tolled and choirs sang, the 41st president of the U.S. was remembered as "a great and noble man" as his son, former U.S. President George W. Bush, said in a eulogy.

"So through our tears, let us know the blessings of knowing and loving you, a great and noble man, the best father a son or daughter could have," the younger Bush said, his eyes shining with tears.

Former President George W.Bush touches the flag-draped casket of his father, as he prepares to speak during the state funeral for former U.S. President George H.W. Bush at the National Cathedral, December 5, 2018. /VCG Photo

President George W. Bush also commended his father's diplomatic skills and accomplishment as a president, saying his father taught him that "public service is noble and necessary."

The younger Bush teared up as he delivered his final farewell, tapping his father's casket as he returned to his pew.

All four living former U.S. presidents and first ladies — Barack and Michelle Obama, Bill and Hillary Clinton and Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, as well as George W. Bush and Laura Bush — were present.

All four living former U.S. presidents and first ladies participate in the funeral. /VCG Photo

The Prince of Wales, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Jordan's King Abdullah II were among the world figures there to pay their respects.

Former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, who was asked to deliver a tribute at the funeral, said, "I believe it will be said that no occupant of the Oval Office was more courageous, more principled or more honorable than George Herbert Walker Bush."

George H.W. Bush died on Friday at age 94 after years of struggling with a form of Parkinson's disease.

Members of the Honor Guard carry the flag-draped casket of former President George H.W. Bush. /VCG Photo

Following the funeral service, George H. W. Bush's flag-draped casket was carried from the cathedral by a military honor guard and was later flown to his hometown in Texas. He will be buried at the George Bush Presidential Library alongside Barbara, his wife of 73 years, who died in April of this year.