President Bush to Attend Reagan's Funeral, No Changes to European Tour Schedule

Strategic Insights -

President George W. Bush has announced his intention to attend former President Ronald Reagan's funeral, amidst a busy European tour schedule. Despite the unexpected development, the White House has confirmed that there will be no changes to President Bush's itinerary, including attending the D-Day ceremonies in France and the G-8 conference in Sea Island, Georgia. As a mark of respect, President Bush has ordered flags to fly at half-staff on all federal buildings for 30 days. The president's staff was caught off guard by the news, but quickly scrambled to coordinate a statement and share personal memories of Ronald Reagan.

Key Takeaways:

  • President George W. Bush will attend former President Ronald Reagan's funeral, a decision made at the last minute due to the unexpected passing of the former president.
  • Despite the funeral, there will be no changes to President Bush's current European tour schedule, which includes attending the D-Day ceremonies in France and the G-8 conference in Sea Island, Georgia.
  • President Bush has ordered flags to fly at half-staff on all federal buildings for 30 days as a mark of respect for former President Reagan.
  • White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan stated that the staff was "fully expecting it until the moment arrives," but was still saddened by the news of Reagan's passing.
  • President Bush spoke from the American ambassador's residence in France, dressed in a blue suit, blue shirt, and maroon tie.
  • The Bush administration sees President Reagan as a leader who "lifted the entire nation up" with his "leadership, vision, and ability to set clear priorities."

Statistics:

  • 30 days: The duration for which President Bush has ordered flags to fly at half-staff on all federal buildings.
  • 2: The number of confidants informed of the news - Fred Ryan, Reagan's Chief of Staff, and White House Chief of Staff Andrew H. Card.
  • 12:30 a.m.: The time when President Bush called Nancy Reagan to express condolences, as reported by White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan.

Sources:

  • Washington, June 5 (UPI)
  • White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan, as reported by UPI.