George H.W. Bush, the 41st president of the United States, died Friday.
Dr. Louis W. Sullivan, M.D., who served as Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Bush from 1989 to 1993 and is a resident of Oak Bluffs, issued the following statement Saturday morning:
“The world has lost a great leader in George H.W. Bush, with whom I had the honor of serving as secretary of the U.S Department of Health and Human Services,” he said. “In addition to his political and military leadership, President Bush was a great supporter of education and equal opportunity for all Americans.
“Some of his medical achievements include providing substantial funding for AIDS education, research and care. He also supported our efforts to reduce drug addiction, tobacco use and to develop other preventive programs.
He had a great partnership in his wife, Barbara Pierce Bush who worked to increase adult literacy in the United States and around the world.
The Bushes were shining examples of moral leadership for America and internationally. He helped to bring an end to the Cold War and usher in a period of economic prosperity.
President Bush was a war hero, a civil and political leader and promoter of international peace. He leaves behind a unique, inspiring and enduring legacy.”
