Fair Winds and Following Seas 41

Christopher D. Flis |
Categories
MIlitary

My nation has mourned the passing of our 41st President, George Bush, for the past several days. My United States has lost a real titan of the 20th Century, who was also a true gentleman. I thought it appropriate to vary widely from this site's usual content and say a few words about 41.

Presidential Election Memories

The first presidential election I remember was President Reagan's win in 1980. Being in the middle of mastering reading and basic arithmetic, I knew absolutely nothing about Presidential Elections. President Reagan's re-election was more of a victory lap than a real contest, so I garnered little from that race either. In 1988, when President Reagan entered the twilight of his Presidential Tenure, I was at last baptized into the Presidential Election process. Then-Vice President George H.W. Bush was the focus of that race from the outset.

Entering Naval Service

When I reported to the Naval Academy in 1991, now President George H.W. Bush was the White House's Occupant.  He delivered the Commencement address that May in Annapolis - a truly memorable event for me as it was the first time I had seen a President in-person.

A Few Thoughts

President George H.W. Bush's accomplishments have been widely reported:

  • United States Congressman
  • United Nations Ambassador
  • United States Chief of the Liaison Office in China
  • Director of the CIA
  • Vice President
  • President

Individually, any one of the accomplishments would capstone a successful career.  For one man to have done the collective set individually is truly historic, and deserving of a special place in my nation's history.

Duty

In 1942, an 18-year old George H.W. Bush volunteered to join his nation's fight in World War II.  In the 20th Century, there was no greater "must win".  After receiving what now would be considered insufficient training (9 months), he was in the air flying combat missions in the Pacific.  We can all learn from his example of service to our country...I know I did.

Dignity

President George H.W. Bush's re-election bid in 1992 demonstrates that even the best among us can be caught up in difficult circumstances.  Even though he suffered defeat, he left with grace and did his duty to pass the baton to his successor.  

I vividly remember being on Watch and listening to his concession speech.  I was a bit unsure of where my United States was headed...uncertainty proven to be completely off-base.  After the election, my outgoing President served his final days with honor.  Reading his letter to #42 is enlightening and inspiring.  We can all learn from his example of displaying the highest dignity under the most difficult of situations.

Legacy

Presidents tend to age well after leaving office. The inter-party bickering is sort of forgotten and the accomplishments take center stage.  I was always impressed at his vigor - who sky dives for their 90th birthday? President George H.W. Bush's legacy will undoubtedly grow brighter over the years. His successes were our successes. Moreover, his impact is still felt throughout the world.

Final Thought

The United States lost a great man and we are rightfully mourning his loss. Later today (December 6th), my U.S. Navy will execute a 21-Plane Missing Man flyover for our President. I can only imagine the logistics (and turning spares perhaps) involved.  This is a fitting salute to a great man. And truth be told, I wish I was in the formation flying.