Brown condolences over Ford death

As the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford is laid to rest today in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Premier Ewart Brown has offered condolences on behalf of the people of Bermuda.

The gesture was expressed in the form of a letter dated December 29, 2006, and was sent to Gregory Slayton, the US Consul General to Bermuda.

The Premier wrote in the letter: “Allow me to express the sincerest condolences of the Government and the People of Bermuda on the passing of former President Gerald R. Ford.

“President Ford has rightly been described as a man of great integrity and a genuine public servant.

“The people of Bermuda join with the people of the United States of America in mourning the loss of this good and caring man.

“His life and example of leadership in troubled times have inspired many around the world and Bermuda is no exception.

“I would ask that you share this message of condolence with President Bush as he leads your countrymen in this period of national mourning.”

An elaborate memorial service befitting a statesman was held yesterday for the former President at the Washington National Cathedral.

It was also a national day of mourning for Americans.

President George W. Bush, Ford’s Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, and NBC newsman Tom Brokaw read eulogies at the service for Mr. Ford who died at age 93 at his home in Rancho Mirage, California the day after Christmas.

Courtesy of Royal Gazette reporter Glenn Jones