93-year-old George H.W. Bush and his wife, 92-year-old Barbara, have certainly led a wonderful life together. The former president met his future wife when he was just 16 years old. Barbara was home from boarding school on the holiday break and the two hit if off right away. They did long distance for two years, after which George popped the question.
George was then shipped off to serve as a naval pilot in World War Two, where he was the youngest pilot. He was shot down by Japanese antiaircraft fire and had to be rescued from the water. While home on leave in January of 1945, George and Barbara got married.
In September 1945, George was honorably discharged from the Navy, and his interest turned to politics. The couple welcomed their first child, George W. Bush, in 1946.
The Bushes welcomed four sons together: George, John Ellis (Jeb), Marvin, and Neil, as well as a daughter, Doro. The couple had another daughter, born in 1950, named Robin. Sadly, she passed away from leukemia at the age of three.
In 1988, George ran as the Republican candidate for president and won. He was sworn in on January 20, 1989, with his loving wife Barbara by his side.
President Bush served until 1993, and was lucky enough to watch his son take on the same title in 2001. However, as the senior Bush gets older, his health has started to decline. Despite being the longest-surviving President in history, George has had his share of health scares. In April 2017, he was admitted to the hospital for pneumonia for the second time in four months.
Statement on President @GeorgeHWBush treatment @MethodistHosp. pic.twitter.com/uktmHViLZZ
— Jim McGrath (@jgm41) April 18, 2017
George Jr. assured the public that his father was recovering well.
Through it all, George had his rock by his side.
Now, the two are celebrating a huge (and historic!) milestone.
On January 6, 2018, George and Barbara celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary, which makes them the longest-married presidential couple in United States history!
A family spokesperson says the couple celebrated in a "very low-key manner," with calls from friends and family.
Former White House photo director, Eric Draper, posted a picture of the couple with well wishes, calling their love an inspiration.
Happy Anniversary to Former President @GeorgeHWBush and former first Lady Barbara Bush. They are the longest-married...
Posted by Eric Draper on Sunday, January 7, 2018
The Bushes share five children and 17 grandchildren, plus seven great-grandchildren!
