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Marines

Remembering President George H. W. Bush
"The President's Own" remembers George H. W. Bush, 41st President of the United States of America

"The President's Own" remembers and honors former President George H. W. Bush, 41st President of the United States.

"The President's Own" Marine Chamber Orchestra will participate in the funeral of President Bush beginning at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 5 at the Washington National Cathedral. The full program and details will be posted here as become available.

"The President's Own"
Remembers George H.W. Bush

by Master Sgt. Kristin duBois

 

As the nation mourns the passing of one its finest patriots, current and former members of the Marine Band remember President George H. W. Bush as a man whose love of music and uncommon graciousness elevated the unique relationship between the Chief Executive and “The President’s Own.”

 

“Although President Bush served as our Commander-in-Chief before my time in ‘The President’s Own,’ the close relationship he developed with the Marine Band is well-known,” Music Adviser to the White House and Marine Band Col. Jason K. Fettig said. “We have been fortunate to have had wonderful moments with every president we serve, but President and Mrs. Bush’s gratitude for our Marines and for the special music we provide in The People’s House was especially warm and always engaging. He never missed an opportunity to connect with those around him and thank them for their contributions, and the men and women in the band who got to know President Bush both during his administration and in the many years beyond will always remember his ever-present appreciation and admiration for all those who served our nation alongside him.”

 

Read the full story

"The President's Own" has more than 60 members participating in the State Funeral for former President Bush. To arrange an interview or to obtain photos video, or audio, contact the Marine Band Office of Communication at 202-433-5809 or marineband.communication@usmc.mil.

President George H.W. Bush and Mrs. Barbara Bush, with Col. John Bourgeois and members of the Marine Chamber Orchestra at a holiday reception on Dec. 12, 1990. (Official White House photo)

George H.W. Bush poses with Marine Band Drum Major MSgt Gary Peterson at the annual Alfalfa Club Dinner.

President George H.W. Bush escorts Queen Elizabeth II of England during a State Dinner at the White House on May, 14, 1991. (Official White House Photo)

President Bush is accosted by a gorilla carrying mylar balloons in celebration of the President's 65th birthday, South Lawn of the White House, June 12, 1989.

1989 Inaugural Parade of President George H.W. Bush.

Full photo album of President Bush and "The President's Own"

 

Inauguration of President George H. W. Bush on Jan. 20, 1989, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. "The President's Own" U. S. Marine Band was seated directly below the podium and provided music throughout the ceremony. (Video courtesy of C-SPAN)

President Bush spoke briefly to thank Dana Carvey, a presidential impersonator and comedian, for appearing at the White House staff’s Christmas ceremony, and to wish the staff a happy holiday season. Prior to the president’s remarks, Mr. Carvey took the podium to conduct brief comedic impressions of the president and 1992 presidential candidate Ross Perot. "The President's Own" U.S. Marine Band provided music and was also in attendance. (Video courtesy of C-SPAN).