Federal Government Closed Wednesday, Dec. 5 to Honor President George H.W. Bush

Interior Team,

Over the weekend the nation lost a former President, war hero, distinguished statesman, loving father, and a Navy veteran. The late President George H.W. Bush exemplified the best in America. It is altogether fitting that we honor his memory and his service. Accordingly, President Donald J. Trump has issued an executive order declaring a National Day of Mourning and closing the government, including all Department of the Interior facilities, this Wednesday, December 5, 2018.

For those of you who are able to honor him in person, President Bush will lie in state for public viewing in the Capitol building here in Washington, D.C. People may begin lining up Monday afternoon until the Capitol opens to the public at 7:30 p.m. The late president will lie in state until 7:00 a.m. Wednesday. Regardless of our proximity to the Capitol, I hope we will all take time on Wednesday to remember President Bush and keep his family in our prayers.

Some Interior employees will need to remain on duty because their work involves national security or law enforcement. Supervisors can provide any necessary guidance.

God bless you all, and may God bless the United States of America, for which President George H.W. Bush dedicated so much of his life.

Sincerely,
Secretary Zinke