The passing of former President George H.W. Bush united the nation in mourning. Powerful tributes poured in as family, friends, and fellow Americans shared their respects.
Here are 11 moments to remember as the country pays tribute to former President George H.W. Bush:
A cartoonist tugged at the hearts of Americans with a sketch set in Heaven and four simple words: "We waited for you." The scene shows the former president reuniting with Barbara Bush, his late wife of 73 years, and Robin, their daughter who died of leukemia at age 3.
A yellow Labrador named Sully joined the Bush family to comfort the former president after the passing of Barbara Bush in April. The two formed a close bond, which became evident in a moving photo posted by former White House spokesman Jim McGrath
Sully's next mission will be working alongside other service dogs at Walter Reed, according to America's VetDogs.
3.) Lying in State
The public was invited to pay respects to former President Bush while he was lying in state at the nation's Capitol. A view from the Rotunda ceiling showed his son, former President George W. Bush, and wife Laura, visiting the flag-draped casket:
Fellow World War II veteran Bob Dole made a powerful statement when he was helped up from his wheelchair to salute Bush for the final time.
Late President George H.W. Bush had 6 children, 17 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren he loved dearly. Granddaughter Jenna Bush spoke at his service Wednesday, and shared this touching tribute about her own daughters on Instagram.
A post shared by jennabhager (@jennabhager) on
The nation's 43rd President George W. Bush greeted President Trump, his wife Melania, and former presidents and their spouses seated inside the National Cathedral.
As Bush greeted former First Lady Michelle Obama, he reached into his pocket to share a piece of candy with her, a sweet tradition between the two. She refers to Bush as her 'partner in crime' after years of sitting together at official events.
First-born son and former President George W. Bush delivered an emotional tribute to his father at Wednesday's State Funeral. He choked up as he said, "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. And in our grief, let us smile knowing that Dad is hugging Robin and holding Mom's hand again."
8.) The Sock Legacy
The late President Bush loved making a fashion statement - and sending a message - with his colorful socks.
Metro Houston bus drivers honored Bush 41 Wednesday with their own bright socks, as they transported guests to St. Martins to pay their final respects.
The City of Houston showed up in force to pay their respects on Wednesday. Thousands lined up at Second Baptist, putting the church at capacity by Wednesday evening.
Bush will be laid to rest next to Barbara at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Center on the Texas A&M campus.
10.) High-flying tributes
"Special Air Mission 41" flew over the heart of Aggieland Wednesday as onlookers gathered on the roof of a campus building in College Station.
In addition to the aerial tribute, the crew of the U.S.S. George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier created points of light to spell out his name at sea.
A custom-painted train bearing the number 4141 will carry Bush to his final resting place. It is painted with colors and details reminiscent of how Air Force One looked during his presidency.
Tributes will continue long after Wednesday's funeral in honor of late President George H.W. Bush. The White House ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at all public buildings for 30 days.
As Texas A&M prepares for Thursday's burial, these students hope to be the living legacy of Bush 41.
The University of Texas Tower lit a "41" tribute on Wednesday evening:
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