Corpus Christi (Kiii News) — As people across the world and right here in the Coastal Bend continue to reflect on the late president George H.W. Bush, you might not know that President Bush's beginnings had ties to Corpus Christi.
Bush learned how to fly planes at NAS Corpus Christi, earning his wings and becoming the youngest naval aviator at that time.
You can learn more about President Bush's military history on board the U.S.S. Lexington Museum.
During World War II, Bush was piloting the TMB Avenger when his plane came under attack and he had to bail out.
After he was picked up, he spent a brief time aboard the U.S.S. Lexington. The aircraft carrier took him back to his squadron.
The museum now displays a replica of Bush's plane and shares his military story.
Corpus Christi resident Leah Camp told 3 News, "It's history that everyone should be able to read and know about."
Michael San Miguel also lives in Corpus Christi. He says he appreciates the late president's military background. "I think anyone who has an understanding of the military understands that it is a very important task that they have especially when they put soldiers in harms way."
The former president will be laid to rest on December 6th at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library in College Station.
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