Keeping up with a tradition prevalent since the late 1800s, of installing marble busts of former Vice Presidents, Dick Cheney, the nation's 45th vice president, had his bust unveiled at the Capitol on Dec. 3.
"For eight years, Dick stood by my side and always did what was right for our nation. I could not ask for a better vice president than Dick Cheney. He's a good man who loves his country and really loves his family," former President George W. Bush said, emphasizing Cheney's accomplishments during his administration, according to CNN.
"I told mother and dad I was coming here for the bust unveiling. Dad perked up, and he said, 'Send my best regards to old iron ass.'" Bush said, referring to his father, George H.W. Bush, who in his forthcoming biography, "Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush," is critical of Cheney, reports NPR.
"I must confess I'm somewhat reluctant to come back to Washington. The last time I showed up here I was hanged in the White House. This time I've returned only to find my vice president getting busted in the Capitol," Bush said referring to his official portrait, according to ABC News.
The current vice president, Joe Biden, had some words of his own to share about his predecessor at the event.
"I actually like Dick Cheney. I can say without fear of contradiction, there's never one single time been a harsh word, not one single time in our entire relationship," Biden said, talking about his relationship with Cheney, according to NPR.
"Being cast in marble is something that every vice president looks forward to. It's not only a high honor, it's our one shot at being remembered." said Cheney, who was accompanied by his wife Lynne and children, reports ABC News. The bust was made by sculptor William Behrends of Tryon, North Carolina.
