Please note that the following is a digitized version of a selected article from White House History Quarterly, Issue 75, originally released in print form in 2024. Single print copies of the full issue can be purchased online at Shop.WhiteHouseHistory.org
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reflecting on my early days in washington, I recall the privilege of serving on the 50th American Presidential Inaugural Committee for President Ronald Reagan and Vice President George H. W. Bush. While I was certainly on the lowest rung of those fortunate enough to be a part of this historic occasion, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. I witnessed firsthand the inner workings of the executive branch, Congress, and the military, all coming together in careful coordination to anticipate and execute a presidential Inauguration.
What struck me most was how partisanship was set aside to commemorate one of the most quintessentially American acts and ceremonies. Although this was not a transition between presidents, it honored the constitutional process of affirming the reelection of a president and symbolized the unifying spirit of coming together as a nation. As Ronald Reagan said in his 1985 Inaugural Address, “History is a ribbon, always unfurling. History is a journey. And as we continue our journey, we think of those who traveled before us. . . Now . . . we see and hear again the echoes of our past. . . . It is the American sound. It is hopeful, big-hearted, idealistic, daring, decent, and fair. That’s our heritage; that’s our song. We sing it still. For all our problems, our differences, we are together as of old.” His words remind us of the solemn responsibility that comes with every Inauguration, as we reaffirm the values on which our country was built. Inaugurations are not just ceremonial events;
