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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Wisconsin chapter.

George H.W. Bush was a class act, an American hero, and arguably the most dedicated civil servant this country has ever seen. He was a member of one of the last political dynasty that gave America governors, senators, and only the second father-son president duo.

 

At 94-years-old, Mr. Bush was arguably one of the most well-respected and accomplished presidents the U.S. has ever seen. Mr. Bush served in World War II marking the beginning of his life of service. Bush was inspired by the attacks on Pearl Harbor to postpone going to college and joined the United States Navy on his 18th birthday. He went on to become the youngest aviator in the Navy.

 

After his time in the Navy, he attended Yale and sought to become engaged in politics. He became one of the most notable political figures that this country has ever seen. Mr. Bush not only was president, but was also a two-term congressman from Texas, vice-president to Reagan, ambassador to the United Nations, the chairman for the Republican National Committee, United States envoy to China, and director of the CIA. He had one of the most detailed political resumes before he was elected president.

 

 

Mr. Bush was a true moderate and was not afraid to reach across the aisle in order to accomplish his goals. When he was elected, Democrats had complete control over the House and Senate, which would have made things difficult if he was unwilling to compromise. While the controversy of the Gulf War haunted him and stained his image, he didn’t let that stop him. He has one of the most impressive single-term presidencies in all of history. He remained active in the political world after his tenure in the White House and even teamed up with other former presidents on numerous occasions to raise money for natural disasters as recently as 2017.

 

While in office, Mr. Bush did not like to discuss his personal life or his past, but the love he had for his family was obvious. Many Americans agree that George HW and Barbara Bush was one of the classiest, adoring couples to have ever graced the White House. Mr. Bush and Barbara celebrated 73 years of marriage before she passed away earlier this year.

 

It is extremely obvious how great of an impact Mr. Bush had on Americans. If you’ve logged on to any news site or social media site since his passing, the feed is flooded with great admiration and respect for the 41st president. Former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and President Trump have all released statements on the passing of George H.W. Bush filled with great respect of what Mr. Bush did for this country. They all shared fond memories that they have of Mr. Bush and the deep impact he had on each of their lives.

 

Mr. Bush passed in the company of his friends and family. It has been reported that former president George W. Bush was unable to make it there in person, so was able to be put on speaker phone to say goodbye to his father in which he explained how wonderful of a father Mr. Bush was and that he loved them. Mr. Bush responded “I love you, too” which were his final words before passing.

 

Mr. Bush is leaving behind a legacy. We can thank Mr. Bush for things like the American Disabilities Act and amending the Clean Air Act. He and his wife were dedicated to the education system. He was philanthropic and had a large heart. Dozens of articles have come out since his passing reminiscing of his passion for the progress of America, his goofy personality, his respect He will never be forgotten.

 

Hannah, originally from Milwaukee, WI is a Campus Correspondent for HC Wisconsin.  Hannah is a Senior and is studying Political Science and Psychology.  She aspires to work in health policy and will run for office one day.  She is never seen without a cup of coffee in hand and loves to eat any food in sight, especially sushi.  Outside of school, Hannah frequents Badger sporting events and likes to hang out with her friends on the weekends finding new things to do and new places to eat.  Hannah also runs her own Mary Kay business and is obsessed with keeping up with the latest makeup trends! This will be her seventh semester on the Her Campus team, and she loves the org more and more each semester!  It is Hannah's favorite thing that she is involved in on campus and highly recommends anyone with an interest in writing, journalism, or blogging to get involved, you won't regret it! On Wisconsin!! 
Erin Kleber

Wisconsin '21

Erin is majoring in Political Science and Communication Arts, with a certificate in Criminal Justice. She is a proud co-president of HC Wisconsin, and has been a member since her freshman year. When she's not writing or spending time with her HC gang, you can find her reading a good book, spending time up north, or cheering on the Badger football team.