Fourteen US Presidents served during the Queen’s seven-decade reign, and living former Presidents have issued statements of condolence following her death. Former President Barack Obama, in a joint statement with First Lady Michelle Obama, said he was “in awe of his legacy of tireless, dignified public service.” “Michelle and I were lucky enough to meet Her Majesty and she meant a lot to us,” the Obamas wrote. “At a time when we were just beginning to navigate life as President and First Lady, she welcomed us onto the world stage with open arms and extraordinary generosity. Time and again, we were struck by her warmth,” they added. Former President Donald Trump also issued a statement on the queen’s death, writing in part, “her leadership and enduring diplomacy secured and advanced alliances with the United States and countries around the world. However, she will always be remembered for her loyalty to her country and her unwavering devotion to her countrymen and women.” “Melania and I will always cherish our time with the Queen and never forget Her Majesty’s generous friendship, great wisdom and wonderful sense of humour. What a stately and beautiful lady she was—there was none like her!” Trump also said. Meanwhile, 43rd President George W. Bush wrote that “spending time at Buckingham Palace and drinking tea with Her Majesty – and her Corgis – are among our fondest memories of the presidency.” “Laura and I had the honor of meeting Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was a woman of great intellect, charm and wit,” he wrote. “Queen Elizabeth led England through dark times with her trust in her people and her vision for a brighter tomorrow. Our world has benefited from her steadfast determination, and we are grateful for her decades of service as sovereign,” Bush added. Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton marked the death of Queen Elizabeth by remembering her as a person of “unwavering grace, dignity and genuine concern for the welfare of all her people”. “In sunshine or storm, she was a source of stability, peace and strength,” a Clinton spokesman said in a statement provided to CNN.
