The body of former President Jimmy Carter has arrived in Washington, D.C., where a three-day period of official mourning is set to take place. This somber occasion includes a lying in state at the Capitol, leading up to his funeral scheduled for Thursday.
As military personnel stood at solemn attention, Mr. Carter’s flag-draped casket was carefully transferred from Air Force One to a hearse emblazoned with the presidential seal. This moment truly reflects the gravity of the circumstances, echoing the honor that comes with a leader’s passing.
The motorcade then made its way to the U.S. Navy Memorial located on Pennsylvania Avenue, where his remains were moved into a horse-drawn hearse for a stately procession to the Capitol. This majestic transition pays tribute to the legacy left behind by the 39th President of the United States.
The state funeral for Mr. Carter, who served from 1977 to 1981, comes simultaneously with the preparations for Republican President-elect Donald Trump to take the helm from Democratic President Joe Biden. How bittersweet it must be, as Mr. Carter’s legacy looms large amidst these political transitions.
Mr. Carter, who hailed from Georgia and originally worked as a peanut farmer, faced a tumultuous presidency marked by economic challenges and the tough Iran hostage crisis. Ultimately, he was defeated in his quest for re-election by Republican Ronald Reagan. What an arduous journey it was for him during those years!
However, in the years that followed his presidency, Mr. Carter became a beacon of humanitarian work and goodwill. People often remarked that his contributions to society in his post-presidential years overshadowed his time in office. In recognition of his tireless efforts, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, solidifying his legacy as a champion of peace.
Living longer than any other U.S. president, Mr. Carter had been receiving hospice care for nearly two years before he passed away on December 29 at the remarkable age of 100. His last appearance in public was at his wife Rosalynn’s funeral in November 2023, where he appeared frail and utilized a wheelchair. It was a poignant reminder of the passage of time.
In August, his grandson Jason Carter shared that Mr. Carter was eager to vote for Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris, who ultimately lost to Mr. Trump. This glimpse into his thoughts highlights the ongoing engagement he felt toward democracy, right up to the end of his life.
In a show of respect, President Biden ordered flags at government buildings to be flown at half-mast for 30 days, acknowledging the profound loss to the nation. Interestingly, during this time, the incoming leader indicated that these flags shouldn’t be lowered during his inauguration, underscoring the transition of power that lies ahead.
At a recent press conference, Mr. Trump voiced his intention to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, an asset that Mr. Carter relinquished to Panama during his presidency. The juxtaposition of past and future in this context is telling of the political landscape.
Members of Congress will have the opportunity to pay their respects tonight at a solemn service in the Capitol Rotunda, prior to allowing the general public to honor Mr. Carter. His remains will lie in state under military guard for 24 hours, after which a motorcade will escort his body to Washington National Cathedral.
On a global note, President Michael D. Higgins of Ireland and his wife Sabina made a heartfelt visit to the American Embassy in Dublin to sign the book of condolences in memory of the former U.S. President, sending a resonating message of solidarity and respect.
Both President Biden and Mr. Trump are anticipated to be present at the funeral on Thursday, alongside former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. In a powerful gesture, President Biden is scheduled to deliver the eulogy, encapsulating the impact of Mr. Carter’s life.
Following the solemn service, Mr. Carter’s remains will be returned to his beloved Georgia, where he will be laid to rest in his hometown of Plains. It’s a bittersweet closure to a life dedicated to service and compassion.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
