M George Bush

George H. W. Bush (1924–2018), the 41st President (1989–1993), had a long career in public service – including roles as a WWII Navy pilot, congressman, diplomat, CIA director, and Vice President under Reagan. As President, he led the nation during the end of the Cold War and forged a coalition to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait in the Gulf War (1991). Domestically, he signed the Americans with Disabilities Act but faced economic recession and broke a “no new taxes” pledge, which hurt his re-election prospects.

Interesting anecdote: Ever the adventurer, Bush celebrated milestone birthdays by skydiving. He made parachute jumps on his 75th, 80th, 85th, and remarkably even on his 90th birthday. His jumps – including a tandem skydive at age 90 in 2014 – showcased his lifelong spirit of daring and zest for life.