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The passing of Senator John McCain was a momentous event that impacted people across the political spectrum and around the world. In this article, we will discuss the eulogies given by former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, how they came to be involved in McCain's funeral service, and the lasting impression their heartfelt speeches left on all who heard them. We'll also provide practical tips and examples on how to write a moving eulogy for a loved one.
Choosing Bush and Obama as Eulogizers
Senator John McCain had been diagnosed with brain cancer and, knowing his days were numbered, had the opportunity to make plans for his funeral service. In a remarkable show of bipartisanship, he personally asked former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama - who had both been his rivals in past presidential campaigns - to deliver eulogies at his funeral. The two were honored to be asked, and despite their political differences, they both respected McCain's service to his country and his commitment to principled leadership.
Bush's Eulogy
In his eulogy, George W. Bush focused on the character of McCain, citing his resilience, bravery, and loyalty as key qualities that defined him. He also acknowledged their previous political rivalry but emphasized their shared love for America and dedication to its values. Some memorable quotes from Bush's eulogy include:
- "He loved freedom with the passion of a man who knew its absence."
- "He was honorable, always recognizing that his opponents were still patriots and human beings."
Obama's Eulogy
Barack Obama's eulogy shared many of the same themes as Bush's, highlighting McCain's dedication to public service and his commitment to a vision of America that was larger than partisan divides. Obama's speech featured anecdotes about McCain's courage, humor, and stubbornness, while also touching on the moments of bipartisanship that defined their relationship. Memorable quotes from Obama's eulogy include:
- "What better way to get a last laugh than to make George and I say nice things about him to a national audience?"
- "He made us better presidents, just as he made the Senate better, just as he made the country better."
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When Will Bush And Obama Eulogy Be Done Fir Sn John Mccain? Example:
In this example, we'll show you a brief excerpt from a eulogy that could have been written for Senator John McCain, based on the themes and quotes mentioned above.
"Senator McCain was a man who truly loved freedom - he fought for it, dedicated his life to it, and never took it for granted. His resilience, bravery, and unyielding loyalty to his country continue to serve as an inspiration to us all. The world has lost a great patriot, and though we may have had our differences over the years, we stand united in admiration of his unwavering service."
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the main eulogists for John McCain's funeral service?
The main eulogists for Senator John McCain's funeral service were former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, who both shared personal anecdotes and highlighted McCain's contributions to the nation.
What was the date of Senator John McCain's funeral service?
Senator John McCain's funeral service took place on September 1, 2018, at the Washington National Cathedral.
Why were former Presidents Bush and Obama chosen to deliver the eulogies?
Bush and Obama were chosen to deliver the eulogies because of their unique relationships with McCain, representing both a friend and former political rival who shared mutual respect and devotion to the principles of American democracy.
What themes were highlighted in President Bush's eulogy?
In his eulogy, President Bush highlighted themes of courage, honesty, and integrity in public service, as well as McCain's bipartisanship and dedication to advancing American ideals.
What message did President Obama convey in his eulogy?
President Obama's eulogy conveyed a message of unity, celebrating McCain's commitment to transcending partisan divides and his belief in a greater purpose that binds all Americans together.
How long were the eulogies delivered by Bush and Obama?
Both eulogies lasted approximately 10-15 minutes each, allowing ample time to honor McCain's legacy and share personal reflections.
Where can I watch the full eulogies delivered by Bush and Obama?
You can watch the full eulogies on various news websites, video streaming platforms such as YouTube, and through the archives of cable networks that covered the funeral services.
Did John McCain plan his own funeral service?
Yes, John McCain was heavily involved in the planning of his own funeral service, including personally selecting Presidents Bush and Obama to deliver the eulogies.
What were some of the notable reactions to the eulogies?
The eulogies were widely praised for their heartfelt tribute to Senator McCain, their civility, and their call for a return to the values of bipartisan cooperation and American leadership.
Were there any other notable speakers at the funeral service?
Other notable speakers at the funeral service included Senator Lindsey Graham, former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, and McCain's daughter Meghan McCain, among others.
What impact did the eulogies have on the public?
The eulogies resonated with the public, serving as a reminder of McCain's enduring legacy and inspiring many to reflect on the values of service and patriotism.
How did the eulogies address McCain's military service?
The eulogies paid tribute to McCain's military service, particularly his time as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, highlighting his bravery, resilience, and sacrifice for his country.
Did the eulogists share any personal anecdotes about their interactions with McCain?
Yes, both Presidents Bush and Obama shared personal anecdotes, reflecting the close relationships they formed with McCain over the years and the impactful interactions they had with him.
Was there a particular moment during the eulogies that stood out?
Many noted the moment when President Obama reflected on the shared humanity and American values that he had with McCain, despite their political differences, as a poignant highlight of the service.
Where was Senator John McCain laid to rest?
Senator John McCain was laid to rest at the U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery in Annapolis, Maryland, next to his lifelong friend Admiral Chuck Larson.
Did President Trump attend the funeral service?
President Donald Trump did not attend Senator McCain's funeral service, as per the wishes of the McCain family.
Did the eulogies make any direct references to the current political climate?
While not mentioning specific figures or events, the eulogies did allude to the current political climate, emphasizing the importance of unity, civility, and upholding democratic values.
What was the response from Senator McCain's family to the eulogies?
Senator McCain's family expressed their gratitude for the touching tributes and the honor bestowed upon him by the former Presidents' heartfelt eulogies.
How did the media cover the eulogies?
The media provided extensive coverage of the eulogies, with many outlets featuring full transcripts, video excerpts, and analysis of the speeches’ significance and impact.
Were Bush and Obama's eulogies similar in tone?
While each eulogy had a distinct perspective, both shared a similar tone of respect, admiration for McCain's service and impact, and hope for the future of American political discourse.
Did the funeral service reflect John McCain's bipartisan approach to politics?
The funeral service, including the selection of eulogists from both ends of the political spectrum, was a reflection of McCain's longstanding commitment to bipartisanship and working across party lines.
What role did patriotism play in the eulogies?
Patriotism played a central role in the eulogies, with both Presidents Bush and Obama emphasizing McCain's love for his country and his dedication to ensuring its enduring values and principles.
The eulogies given by George W. Bush and Barack Obama at Senator John McCain's funeral service are powerful reminders of the ways in which a well-written and heartfelt speech can honor the memory of a loved one and bring people together, transcending political and personal differences. As you’re working on your eulogy, using tools like Eulogy Assistant can help you craft a meaningful and moving speech that creates a lasting impression. If you found this article helpful, please feel free to share it with others who may be seeking guidance and inspiration in preparing a eulogy of their own. Be sure to explore other articles and guides on Eulogy Assistant for more helpful advice and support.