People who had never met the late President George H.W. Bush filled the East Room inside the Richard Nixon Library and Museum in Yorba Linda to pay their respects to the 41st president of the United States on Wednesday morning.

“It’s a very rememberable occasion. I think this proves the transition of government works well,” said Richard Frauenzimmer, a Vietnam War Veteran who served in the Air Force.

Frauenzimmer was touched by the state funeral, and didn’t hold back his emotions as he watched Bush’s casket being carried into the Washington National Cathedral. Frauenzimmer was the first person in the room to stand and salute the former president.

 

“George Herbert Walker Bush represents the best of the United States,” said Frauenzimmer.The Richard Nixon Library and Museum opened its doors to people to watch the funeral on a big projector. Visitors were encouraged to write messages and sign a book, which will be delivered to the Bush family.

“I wrote, 'Dear Bush Family, thank you for sharing your G.H.W. with us. He was president as I was a young mom, and he made me feel proud and safe in my country,'” said Yorba Linda resident Julia Humphrey.

Inside the viewing room sat Tamara Roe who decided not to watch the funeral at home, but instead to join other people at the museum.

“I love everything historical and especially someone who exemplifies being a war hero, and I think that’s the most special thing about President Bush,” said Roe.

Even though most of the men, women and veterans in the room never crossed paths with President Bush, they mourned the loss of a man they consider a true American.

The book with messages from well-wishers will be available at the Nixon Library through December 16 during normal library hours. Admission is not required to sign the book.