Governor Cuomo Directs Flags to Half-Staff In Honor of President George H. W. Bush

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today directed that flags on all state government buildings be flown at half-staff in honor of President George H. W. Bush from Tuesday, December 4 until interment. 

"President George H. W. Bush was a statesman and patriot who dedicated his life to serving his country. In World War II, he answered the call of duty and became a decorated Navy pilot, and in the decades that followed, he helped to shape the largely peaceful world that we have enjoyed since 1945. His greatest legacy may be the successful end of the Cold War, which occurred on his watch. His leadership was an important factor in the three decades of stability Europe has enjoyed since the fall of the Iron Curtain. 

"He was also a great unifier of Americans at home, always willing to put country before party. President Bush showed the compassion, decency and good humor that is often lacking in our politics today. He understood that our values, no less than wealth and power, are the source of America's stature in the world 

"On behalf of the New York Family, we are forever grateful for his service, mourn his passing and will keep his family in our prayers."