The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum on the campus of Texas A & M University was high on my “Want to Do” list. How interesting it is to view a slice of history through the eyes of a key player.
One of our first thoughts was that parking was free, and there was not the frustration we experienced at the George W. Bush Presidential Library in Dallas.
During the orientation movie, President Bush talked about the reasons he chose the Texas A & M campus as the site of the library. The high principals exhibited at A & M University mirrored his own beliefs. I liked that.
Ever-Lovin’ wanted me to be sure and see the pictures of Barbara’s mother Pauline Robinson. She was a beautiful lady, but what a hair-do. It is always interesting to see family photographs.
While at Yale, President Bush was captain of the Yale soccer and baseball teams. As president, he always kept his Yale baseball glove in his desk drawer. I was most impressed with President Bush’s determination and drive. He entered World War II as an eighteen year old and became a pilot. He survived being shot out of the sky. When the war was over, he entered Yale University and graduated in 2 1/2 years. He felt he needed to get on with his life and start earning a living because he had a wife and son (George W.) to support.
He spoke fondly of “love at first sight” with Barbara. This is a replica of her wedding gown. Personal mementoes are always so interesting.
In a Studebaker simular to this (Ever-Lovin’ was most impressed with this automobile), the Bushes moved to Midland, Texas to make their fortune. Of course, I always appreciate references to the good people of West Texas.
There was the photo op in the replica of the Bush’s Oval Office.
There was also a replica his office at Camp David. I always wondered what Camp David was like.
Another room let us see what the Situation Room during the Gulf War was like.
For me, one of the most amazing piece of history in the museum was the piece of the actual Berlin Wall that came down during President Bush’s presidency. I could not believe I was seeing a piece of the actual wall that signaled the end of the Cold War. So many people lost their lives while trying to escape to freedom over this wall. We take our freedom for granted.
I also thought this “Gate of Kuwait” that was presented to President Bush from the people of Kuwait very interesting.
Presented to President Bush was “The Gate of Kuwait.” Made of teak, studded with domed nails, and sometimes elaborately carved, such doors were once the primary access to the walled homes of Kuwait’s leading citizens. Over one hundred years old, the door is framed with plates bearing the names of American servicemen who died in the Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.
The inscription below the door cites the old Kuwaiti proverb:
“When a man gives you the key to his home, it means you are the best and most valuable friend to him; when a man gives you the door of his home it means that you are one of his family.”
A gift of great significance, this door symbolizes George Bush’s place in Kuwait history as well as his place in Kuwaiti hearts.
Throughout our visit to this presidential library I was impressed with how humbly George Bush served. Being a “Point of Light” isn’t just what he has preached, it is how he has lived his life.
On the grounds of the library is a pond. It is beautiful and peaceful. The Bushes have an apartment at the library, and they mentioned that sometimes Barbara can be seen walking her dog. They will be buried here.
On the back of the building by the pond, is this quote:
“Let future generations understand the burden and the blessings of freedom.
Let them say we stood where duty required us to stand.”
I loved going to the President George Bush Library. It made me proud to be an American.
Blessings to you and yours,
If you get a chance, do go visit this library.