By Newspot Nigeria Global Desk
Former U.S. President George W. Bush has issued a heartfelt statement mourning the passing of Richard B. “Dick” Cheney, the 46th Vice President of the United States, describing him as “a decent, honorable man” whose lifetime of public service left a lasting impact on American governance.
In the statement released on Tuesday, Bush said the death of Cheney was “a loss to the nation and a sorrow to his friends,” adding that both he and his wife, Mrs. Laura Bush, would remember Cheney for his integrity, deep patriotism, and unshakeable character.
“History will remember him as among the finest public servants of his generation – a patriot who brought integrity, high intelligence, and seriousness of purpose to every position he held,”
Bush said.
Bush, who served alongside Cheney for two presidential terms from 2001 to 2009, recounted how he first invited Cheney to help select a running mate in 2000 — only to conclude that Cheney himself was the ideal candidate.
“In our discussions about the qualities a vice president should have — deep experience, mature judgment, character, loyalty — I realized that Dick Cheney was the one I needed. I’m still grateful that he was at my side for the eight years that followed.”
Cheney previously served in several major national roles including:
- White House Chief of Staff (1975–1977)
- U.S. Congressman representing Wyoming
- Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush
- Vice President of the United States (2001–2009)
President Bush highlighted Cheney’s role during some of America’s most challenging historical moments, including the post-9/11 era.
“Dick was a calm and steady presence in the White House amid great national challenges. I counted on him for his honest, forthright counsel, and he never failed to give his best.”
Bush also emphasized Cheney’s devotion to family as a defining aspect of his life:
“Dick’s love for America was second only to his family.”
The former president concluded by extending personal prayers to Cheney’s wife, Lynne Cheney, and their daughters Liz and Mary, as well as the grandchildren he cherished deeply.
The Cheney family is expected to announce funeral arrangements in the coming days.
