Dick Cheney remembered for putting Constitution above politics | REUTERS

This transcript is a eulogy for Dick Cheney, delivered by his daughter, Liz Cheney. It focuses on his character, his commitment to the Constitution, and his final moments.

Key Concepts

• Constitutionalism: Cheney's unwavering commitment to the U.S. Constitution above party loyalty.
• Service to the Republic: His dedication to serving the United States.
• Family Love: The profound love and connection he shared with his family, particularly his wife and daughter.
• Spiritual Imagery: The use of celestial imagery to describe his passing.

Main Topics and Key Points

• Political Ideology and Principles:

  • Despite being inspired to public service by President Kennedy (a Democrat), Dick Cheney ultimately became a Republican.
  • A core principle for Cheney was that the "bonds of party must always yield to the single bond we share as Americans."
  • He viewed any conflict between defending the Constitution and defending his political party as a non-choice, prioritizing the Constitution. This highlights his strong sense of civic duty and constitutional fidelity.

• Character and Legacy:

  • Cheney is described as a "giant to the end" and a "lion of a man."
  • His primary motivations were love for and service to the "great republic."

• Final Moments and Family:

  • The night before his death, the sky above his parents' house was filled with clouds described as "winged angels." This imagery is presented as a profound and unusual celestial event, suggesting a spiritual presence.
  • His last words were to his wife, expressing his love for her.
  • The eulogy concludes with a direct address to him from his loved ones, using a quote from John Milton's "Lycidas": "Good night, sweet dad. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest." This signifies a peaceful and blessed departure.

Key Arguments or Perspectives Presented

The central argument is that Dick Cheney was a man of profound integrity, whose loyalty to the U.S. Constitution and the nation superseded all other allegiances, including party affiliation. His character is portrayed as strong and dedicated, and his passing is framed with both deep personal love and a sense of spiritual significance.

Notable Quotes or Significant Statements

• "But he knew that bonds of party must always yield to the single bond we share as Americans." (Liz Cheney)
• "For him, a choice between defense of the Constitution and defense of your political party was no choice at all." (Liz Cheney)
• "He was a giant to the end, a lion of a man who loved and served this great republic." (Liz Cheney)
• "Good night, sweet dad. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest." (Liz Cheney, quoting John Milton)

Synthesis/Conclusion

This eulogy paints a picture of Dick Cheney as a principled statesman whose unwavering commitment to the U.S. Constitution defined his public life. It emphasizes his deep love for his country and his family, culminating in a poignant farewell that blends personal grief with spiritual hope. The narrative highlights his dedication to American ideals and his strength of character, even in his final moments.