WASHINGTON (Gray DC) – An Armed Forces Body Bearer team carried Sen. Lindsey Graham’s casket up the front steps of the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, marking the start of a multi-day series of memorial ceremonies honoring the four-term senator.
Vice President JD Vance and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) delivered remarks at a ceremony inside the Capitol Rotunda. Friends, family and the South Carolina congressional delegation attended the service.
Rep. Sheri Biggs (R-S.C.) addressed those gathered on behalf of her state.
“I’m incredibly honored to offer on behalf of the people of South Carolina, our immeasurable gratitude for the statesman, and even better friend, Senator Lindsey Graham,” Biggs said.
The hour-long ceremony included performances from the Army Band Brass Quintet and the Air Force Band. Vance spoke about Graham’s approach to political disagreement.
“I choose to remember Lindsey Graham as a man who could disagree with you without being disagreeable,” Vance said. “I chose to remember Lindsey Graham as a person who could fight with you on one issue, but fight for you on another issue. I remember Lindsey Graham as a man who loved people.”
Graham’s colleagues remembered him as a cornerstone of foreign affairs and as Senate Budget Chairman. Thune closed his remarks with a personal note.
“And to Lindsey, rest in peace my friend. I look forward to the days when you make us all laugh again,” Thune said.
Following the Capitol ceremony, Graham’s casket was taken to the National Cathedral. Funeral proceedings are scheduled to continue in South Carolina on Wednesday.
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