Family & Kids

Marriage is a sacred union between two people in love. The longer people stay married, the more admiration they deserve. However, it is not the time that matters, but the real bond between the spouses, support, and partnership despite hardships and life's challenges.

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This couple has proven that love beats time and obstacles. The 41st President of the United States, George Herbert Walker Bush, and his wife, Barbara Pierce Bush, have celebrated a significant milestone – 73 years of marriage.

[caption id="attachment_179886" align="alignnone" width="800"] By Joseph Lozada. (U.S. Department of Defense [1]) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons[/caption]They set a record among former presidents and first ladies. Standing by each other for so many years serves as an example of true devotion!

[caption id="attachment_179887" align="alignnone" width="800"] By Quadell at en.wikipedia. [Public domain], from Wikimedia Commons[/caption]The couple met when they were very young. 16-year-old Barbara first saw 17-year-old George during Christmas break at a dance party.

[caption id="attachment_179888" align="alignnone" width="800"] National Archives and Records Administration [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons[/caption]Before he went off to serve in World War II as a Navy torpedo bomber pilot, the couple got engaged. They married in 1945, just before the war ended.

[caption id="attachment_179890" align="alignnone" width="800"] Eric Draper [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons[/caption]Both were so dedicated to each other. During their first years of marriage, they had to move a lot, as George Bush’s Navy squadron training demanded his presence in every state where there was a base. Barbara followed everywhere – Michigan, Maryland, Virginia, and many more Eastern states.

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George named three planes after her!

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In 1989, when George H.W. Bush was elected as the 41st President, Barbara was by his side and took her role as First Lady with responsibility and enthusiasm.

[caption id="attachment_179889" align="alignnone" width="800"] National Archives and Records Administration [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons[/caption]Their life was not smooth sailing. The couple lost a child, Robin, born in 1949, who died at the age of three from leukemia. Both spouses were diagnosed with an overactive thyroid ailment known as Graves' disease when they resided in the White House.

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Still, the Bush couple has so much to be proud of! They have 5 children, 14 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, and strong relationships with each other.

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This longest married couple deserves tremendous respect as they have shown to the world that love conquers all!

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