Why Lifelong Sock Lover George H.W. Bush Will Be Buried in This Pair
Matthew Underwood
Last Friday, George H.W. Bush, the 41st president of the United States, died in his home in Houston at the age of 94. Today, a ceremony will be held for him at the the Capitol in Washington D.C., where he will lie in state in the rotunda, before being taken back to his final resting place in Texas on Thursday.
The former president leaves behind a long legacy in international politics. But the decorated war veteran is also fondly remembered for his love of fun, colorful socks. It is therefore both touching and fitting that, according to his spokesman Jim McGrath, he will be "carried to his final rest wearing socks that pay tribute to his lifetime of service, starting as an 18 year-old naval aviator in war."
The 41st President will be carried to his final rest wearing socks that pay tribute to his lifetime of service, starting as an 18 year-old naval aviator in war. That legacy is now being carried, in part, by the brave, selfless men and women aboard @CVN77_GHWB. #Remembering41
— Jim McGrath (@jgm41) December 3, 2018
"I'm a self-proclaimed sock man," Bush once said in an email from the Republican National Committee. "The louder, the brighter, the crazier the pattern – the better."
Enjoyed my annual lunch with President and Mrs. Bush in Maine. Envious of his "western cactus"-themed socks.#sockswag
— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) September 5, 2013
Proving that he was a man ahead of his time, he even had socks that bore the adorable face of his service dog, Sully.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Sully H.W. Bush (@sullyhwbush) on
But outside of fun, Bush also wore socks that made a statement or raised awareness, as he did on World Down Syndrome Day last March.
Yesterday I was inspired by my friend John Cronin to wear these beauties from @JohnsCrazySocks marking World Down Syndrome Day. A great sock supporting a wonderful cause. #johnscrazysocks #worlddownsyndromeday #happiness #downsyndrome
— George Bush (@GeorgeHWBush) March 22, 2018
Or when he broke everyone's hearts by wearing book socks at Barbara Bush's funeral service to pay tribute to his wife of 73 years and her lifelong commitment to family literacy.
The socks worn by the 41st President of the United States of America at today's funeral for former First Lady Barbara Bush.
— Jim McGrath (@jgm41) April 21, 2018
And other times, he would use socks to tease his friends, as when he greeted Bill Clinton while wearing socks printed with his face.
Special visit today with a great friend — and now, a best-selling author. Luckily I had a freshly laundered pair of @BillClinton socks to mark the occasion.
— George Bush (@GeorgeHWBush) June 25, 2018
For more on beloved politicians who love some next-level ankle décor, check out Justin Trudeau's amazing Star Wars-themed socks!
To discover more amazing secrets about living your best life, click here to follow us on Instagram!
Diana Bruk Diana is a senior editor who writes about sex and relationships, modern dating trends, and health and wellness. Read more Read This Next
-
The "American Bro" Is an International Embarrassment
What the insidious rise of online frat culture means for the modern man. May 26, 2017 -
10 Famous Men Who Wear the Same Outfit Every Day
Is it a uniform? Or is it laziness? June 22, 2017 -
10 Things You Didn't Know about Justin Trudeau
Athlete, nerd, hopeless romantic, thespian. Yes, there’s a lot more to Canada’s Prime Minister than just politics. March 21, 2017 -
Jon Hamm: The Best Life Interview
Jon Hamm, star of TV's Mad Men, reveals the secrets of manliness in a postmodern world. November 15, 2016 -
Driving Tips Smart Men Know
Ten easy ways to be the safest driver on the road. April 3, 2017 -
Men Who Set the Time: Cash Warren
The successful producer, entrepreneur and husband of Jessica Alba reveals how you, too, can live your best life. October 31, 2016 -
Dr. Oz: The Best Life Interview
Mehmet Oz, M.D., asks the toughest question: Are you living or dying? October 23, 2016 -
Dr. Oz's 15 Best Life Tips
October 23, 2016 -
The One That Got Away
A single nutrient—omega-3 fatty acids—may have turned early humans into civilized man. Has stripping it from our diet given rise to cancer, diabetes, and other civilized diseases? Our correspondent investigates. February 23, 2017 -
George Clooney Is Having Twins. Here's What Women Everywhere Are Saying About It
The legendary ladies' man who once swore off fatherhood went from zero to "Full House" very quickly—and the Internet has responded. February 10, 2017
