Former President Bush Slammed For Dancing During Memorial For Slain Dallas Officers
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Former President George W. Bush's awkward arm swaying in sync with a choir's singing during a memorial service for the five police officers slain in Dallas last week is drawing mockery and criticism on social media.
George Bush is having way to much fun at this #DallasPolice Memorial service. pic.twitter.com/YPqsrkqTMg
— Jon Sheeeezer (@JonSchieszer) July 12, 2016
Bush smiled, swayed and moved his arms up and down while holding the hands of wife Laura Bush and first lady Michelle Obama during the Dallas Police Choir's rendition of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic.'' At one point he said something to Michelle Obama, who smiled and laughed.
You can watch the full memorial service below, or fast forward to approximately 1:15:00 for the start of the song.
Dallas Police Memorial ServicePresident Barack Obama and former President George W. Bush are among those who paid tribute to the slain Dallas police officers at a memorial service. More: http://cbsloc.al/29FeLFL
Posted by CBS New York on Tuesday, July 12, 2016
Video of Bush at the event has sparked a strong reaction online. Some criticize Bush's behavior as inappropriate given the solemn occasion. Others are using the moment to post videos of Bush dancing awkwardly in the past.
George Bush dancing to "Glory Glory Hallelujah" at the #DallasMemorial while smirking makes my heart hurt #Dallas
— Kelly Byrd Marín (@KelByrd) July 12, 2016
George Bush smiling and dancing during the singing at the #DallasMemorial ? I wonder how hard Laura was squeezing his hand to stop
— Cortland Armour (@armour_twit) July 12, 2016
Did anyone else see George bush dancing on stage at the #dallasmemorial while holding Michelle Obama's hand? #akward pic.twitter.com/EQtJSaEW3R
— Author Davis (@AuthorJDavis) July 12, 2016
Bush, a Dallas resident, spoke at the memorial service honoring the officers who were killed while guarding a peaceful protest against the police killings of black men in Louisiana and Minnesota last week.
"They and their families share the unspoken knowledge that each new day can bring new dangers, but none of us were prepared, or could be prepared for an ambush by hatred and malice. The shock of this evil still has not faded," Bush said.
"With their deaths, we have lost so much," Bush said. "We are grief-stricken, heartbroken and forever grateful."
PHOTOS: Memorial Service For Slain Dallas Police Officers
He said that Americans should "remember their shared commitments for common ideals" as a means of bridging divisions. Bush said that Americans know we have one country and don't want the unity of grief and fear, but hope.
Other speakers included President Barack Obama and Dallas Police Chief David Brown.
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