■ Florida leaders, local dignitaries honor former president.
George H.W. Bush, who died late Friday in his Houston home at age 94, was revered by Florida politicians in tributes Saturday as a selfless patriot and “faithful servant,” who was instrumental in our nation’s history.
“Today, the world lost a statesman who was the symbol of the highest level of civil commitment and who helped weave the fabric of an America that represents freedom and prosperity,” Gov. Rick Scott said in part of a statement released Saturday.
Scott hailed Bush for his military service and vast political tenure that came later.
“As a Naval aviator and fighter pilot, Congressman, Ambassador to the United Nations, Director of the CIA, Vice President and President, George H.W. Bush dedicated his life to service to our nation and vowed to use his presidency and the power of our nation as ‘a force for good,’” Scott’s statement read. “I have had the privilege of knowing the Bush family for years and am incredibly grateful to have met such a genuine, gracious and kind man.”
He added, “The United States of America is stronger today because of the selfless service of 41. Ann and I send our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to the Bush family as they mourn the loss and celebrate the amazing life of George H.W. Bush.”
Gov.-elect Ron DeSantis took to Twitter Saturday morning, praising Bush for a prolific career and genial nature that he said will cement his legacy.
“Few Americans have served our country in as many different and important capacities as George H.W. Bush,” DeSantis’ tweet read.
“As a naval aviator, as a legislator, as an intelligence chief, as a diplomat and, of course, as Vice President and President of the United States, President Bush amassed prodigious accomplishments and he did it all with uncommon grace, class and honor. Appreciation of his achievements will only continue to grow as the years go by. President Bush was an American hero, a faithful servant and the greatest Yalie of them all.”
Bush’s ties to the state lie primarily in South Florida, where he was trained in piloting at the thenFort Lauderdale Naval Air Station in 1943, and returned countless times during his career, the SunSentinel reported.
U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, who is from Miami, said in a tribute posted to Twitter just after midnight Saturday, “President George H.W. Bush was an American hero, a patriot and a wise and generous man. May he Rest In Peace.”
Republican Party of Florida Chairman Blaise Ingoglia also paid homage to the former president in a statement Saturday afternoon praising Bush’s service and leadership.
“Today, we mourn the passing of a truly amazing American leader, an experienced statesman, and a man who always put our nation first,” Ingoglia said.
“President George H.W. Bush displayed the utmost love for country since his time as a Navy pilot until his days as Commander in Chief. He will always be remembered as a man of integrity and patriotism, and it is with a heavy heart that we extend our condolences to the Bush Family, and keep them in our prayers during this difficult time.”
Echos of praise continued on Twitter through the morning.
Former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham posted a brief statement in response to the announcement of Bush’s death, calling him “a good and honorable man” and wishing he “Rest In Peace, Mr. President.” Sen Bill Nelson said on Twitter Bush “modeled the best of public service. He was a servant leader. And that’s why the nation unanimously mourns for him.”
Coming off the annual lighting of the Christmas tree at Lake Eola Park Friday night, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer in a salute to Bush on social media said, “America has lost a leader who truly loved our nation and dedicated his life to serving our country with dignity.”
The League of Women Voters of Florida also acknowledged Bush’s passing in a brief comment on their Facebook page, saying “we thank President Bush for his public service to our country. May he Rest in Peace.”