Former President George W. Bush appeared on the field during Monday Night Football just hours before the announcement of his former vice president, Dick Cheney, had passed away.
Bush, 79, and his wife, former First Lady Laura Bush, participated in a pre-game ceremony. This honored Medal of Honor recipients during the national anthem. The Dallas Cowboys faced the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, November 3.
The former first couple also took part in the coin toss before the game. The Cardinals ultimately secured a 27-17 victory over the Cowboys.
Cheney’s death was announced in a statement issued by his family on Tuesday, November 4. The former Vice President, who served in the Bush White House from 2001 to 2009, died Monday.
He was 84 years old and succumbed to complications from pneumonia and heart and vascular disease. Cheney had a long history of cardiovascular issues, enduring five heart attacks before undergoing a heart transplant in 2012 at age 74.
President Bush issued a statement on Tuesday regarding Cheney’s death. He described the passing as “a loss for the nation and a sorrow for his friends.”
“Laura and I will remember Dick Cheney for the decent and honorable man he was,” Bush wrote. “History will record him among the best public servants of his generation: a patriot who brought integrity, great intellect, and seriousness of purpose to every post he held.”
Bush expressed continued gratitude that Cheney chose to be “by my side” during his eight years in the Oval Office. He called Cheney “a serene and steady presence in the White House amidst great national challenges.”
The former President added, “I relied on his honest and direct counsel, and he never failed to give his best. He stayed true to his convictions and prioritized the freedom and security of the American people.”
Bush concluded his tribute by stating, “Dick’s service always reflected credit upon the country he loved. Dick’s love for America was surpassed only by his love for his family.” He extended his deepest condolences to Cheney’s wife, Lynne, their daughters Liz and Mary, and their grandchildren.
Cheney’s wife, Lynne, to whom he was married for 61 years, along with his daughters Liz and Mary, and other family members, were by his side when he passed on Monday night.
The family statement highlighted his extensive public service. This included roles as White House Chief of Staff, Wyoming Congressman, Secretary of Defense, and Vice President of the United States.
“Dick Cheney was a great and good man who taught his children and grandchildren to love our country and to live lives of courage, honor, love, kindness, and fly fishing,” the statement read. “We are grateful beyond measure for all Dick Cheney did for our country. And we are blessed beyond imagining to have loved and been loved by this noble giant of a man.”