All the living US presidents and many other dignitaries gathered to pay their final respects to George H.W. Bush today. A few outtakes. Historian and biographer Jon Meacham: “The George Herbert Walker Bush who survived that fiery fall into the waters of the Pacific three quarters of a century ago made our lives and the lives of nations freer, better, warmer, and nobler. That was his mission, that was his heartbeat.” Former Senator Alan Simpson: “He loved a good joke, the richer the better, and he’d throw his head back and give that great laugh. But he never, ever could remember a punch line. And I mean never.” George W Bush: “We’re going to miss you: your decency, sincerity and kind soul will stay with us forever. … The best father a son or daughter could have. And in our grief, let us smile knowing that Dad is hugging Robin and holding Mom’s hand again.”

+ “When the President noticed members of his protective detail shaved their heads in solidarity for the 2-year-old, who was undergoing lifesaving treatment, he joined in without hesitation.” From a former Secret Service agent: Why we loved Timberwolf.

+ And yes, things were a little awkward. (But these days, a little awkward seems like a big relief.)