12.06.18

McConnell Thanks Staff, Volunteers, Capitol Police for President Bush Memorial Efforts

‘As our 41st president lay in state earlier this week, the Bush family, world leaders, and tens of thousands of Americans were welcomed to the Capitol to pay their respects. So I know my colleagues will join me in thanking the great many people who helped make such a beautiful remembrance possible.’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor to thank the staff, volunteers and Capitol Police for their efforts in the lying in state ceremony for President George H. W. Bush:

“I have a number of important topics to discuss this morning. But first and foremost, I want to personally thank everyone in this building who gave so much of their own time and energy to facilitate the rituals that filled this Capitol for the last several days.

“From the moment that news of President Bush’s passing was made public, intricate plans were set in motion in both the House and Senate to arrange a public tribute worthy of a national treasure and rare patriot like George Bush. Needless to say, the entire Congressional family should be proud of the result.

“As our 41st president lay in state earlier this week, the Bush family, world leaders, and tens of thousands of Americans were welcomed to the Capitol to pay their respects. So I know my colleagues will join me in thanking the great many people who helped make such a beautiful remembrance possible.

“To the staff of the Architect of the Capitol, all the offices under the Sergeants at Arms, the Secretary of the Senate and her team, the Press Galleries. To the volunteers from my own staff, and from other Congressional offices who freely gave their time. To the staff of the Capitol Visitors Center who ensured tens of thousands of people could share this experience.

“To the men and women of the Capitol Police who watched over us all. To the United States military, the envy of the world. With special thanks to Stef Muchow, my director of operations, who played such a tireless role in conducting this orchestra. And to so many others who worked through the weekend and around the clock in recent days to help the legislative branch coordinate a dignified send-off befitting the remarkable man whom we honored. I thank you, and your nation thanks you.”

Related Issues: Tributes