December 03, 2018

AFA Statement on President George H. W. Bush’s Passing

President George H. W. Bush, 41st President of the United States, passed away on November 30, 2018. AFA was saddened to learn of his passing. President Bush served his country with honor and dignity throughout his decades of public service. He enlisted in the Navy on his 18th birthday and became one of the youngest naval aviators in World War II. Through 1944, Bush flew 58 combat missions and had to bail out during a mission when his aircraft was hit by flak during an attack. For his service, Bush received the Distinguished Flying Cross, three Air Medals, and the Presidential Unit Citation.

After the war, Bush started a business career but soon returned to public service. His election to the U.S. House of Representatives was followed by his appointment as Ambassador to the United Nations. He served as the Director of Central Intelligence Agency and Vice President to Ronald Reagan before being elected the 41st President of the United States in 1988.

AFA thanks President Bush for his lifelong service to our nation.