Washington, D.C. — In a scene both somber and historic, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were seen greeting one another with warmth and solemn respect at the funeral service of former Vice President Dick Cheney, held at the majestic Washington National Cathedral on Friday morning. The service, attended by a cross-section of America’s political elite, military leaders, and Cheney’s family, became a poignant moment of unity and reflection in a deeply divided nation.
As dignitaries arrived at the cathedral, the air was thick with reverence, memories, and the weight of history. Dick Cheney, who served as the 46th Vice President of the United States under President George W. Bush, was a towering figure in American politics for decades. His passing drew together not only current and former government officials but also political rivals, friends, and adversaries—each coming to pay their respects to a man whose influence shaped the nation’s course at the dawn of the 21st century.
Among the first to arrive were President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, both dressed in black, their faces reflecting the gravity of the occasion. Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff followed shortly after, greeting attendees and exchanging nods with former presidents, cabinet members, and Supreme Court justices.
The moment that captured the nation’s attention came as President Biden entered the nave, pausing to greet Vice President Harris. Cameras captured the two leaders exchanging a heartfelt handshake and a brief embrace—an image that quickly went viral as a symbol of unity and continuity at a time of national mourning.
According to those seated nearby, their exchange was brief but meaningful. “It was a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes,” said one attendee, a longtime Senate aide. “In that moment, politics fell away. It was about service, sacrifice, and the enduring institutions of American democracy.”
The greeting was followed by a few whispered words between the President and Vice President, their faces solemn but supportive. Observers noted the mutual respect and camaraderie that has defined their partnership, even amid the pressures and challenges of the past few years.
The cathedral’s grand interior was filled with a veritable who’s who of American power. Former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama were in attendance, as were former Vice Presidents including Al Gore and Mike Pence. Congressional leaders from both parties, current and former Supreme Court justices, and military chiefs filled the pews, each one a testament to Cheney’s far-reaching influence.
The service was also attended by international dignitaries, ambassadors, and representatives from allied nations, underscoring Cheney’s role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during a turbulent era.
The funeral service itself was marked by a series of moving tributes, each highlighting a different facet of Cheney’s legacy. President George W. Bush delivered a eulogy that was both personal and political, recalling Cheney’s “unwavering commitment to the security of our nation” and his “deep love for his family.”
“Dick was a man of principle, a man of conviction, and a man who never wavered in the face of adversity,” Bush said. “He was my friend, my confidant, and my partner in some of the most difficult days our country has ever faced.”
Other speakers included Cheney’s daughter, Congresswoman Liz Cheney, who spoke of her father’s devotion to his family and his belief in the promise of America. “He taught us to stand up for what we believe in, even when it’s hard,” she said, her voice breaking with emotion. “He believed in the Constitution, in the rule of law, and in the idea that America’s best days are always ahead.”
The service included hymns, prayers, and readings from scripture, each chosen to reflect Cheney’s faith and his lifelong commitment to public service. The National Cathedral’s soaring organ filled the space with music both mournful and uplifting, as attendees reflected on the passage of time and the enduring values that bind the nation together.
In his homily, the Dean of the Cathedral spoke of Cheney’s complex legacy, acknowledging both his achievements and the controversies that marked his career. “He was a man who made difficult decisions in difficult times,” the Dean said. “He was not perfect, but he was steadfast. He loved his country, and he served it to the best of his ability.”
As the service drew to a close, President Biden and Vice President Harris stood together with other leaders for a moment of silent reflection. The image of the two—representing both the continuity and the change of American leadership—was a powerful reminder of the nation’s resilience.
Outside the cathedral, crowds gathered behind barricades, some holding flags and signs of remembrance. As the motorcade carrying Cheney’s casket departed, a hush fell over the crowd—a final tribute to a man who, for better or worse, left an indelible mark on American history.
Within hours, video clips of Biden and Harris’s greeting at the service began circulating on social media. Commentators noted the significance of the moment, especially amid recent reports of tension within the administration. “It was a reminder that, in times of national mourning, our leaders can set aside differences and come together,” wrote one columnist. “That’s something we need more of.”
The hashtag #BidenHarrisUnity trended nationwide, as Americans from across the political spectrum shared their reactions. Many praised the dignity and grace shown by both leaders, while others reflected on the importance of honoring public service, even when legacies are complicated.
As the nation moves forward, the images from Dick Cheney’s funeral—of rivals and allies, presidents and vice presidents, standing together in remembrance—serve as a powerful reminder of the values that unite Americans: service, sacrifice, and the enduring promise of democracy.
For President Biden and Vice President Harris, the day was a moment to put aside politics and honor a predecessor. For the country, it was a chance to reflect on the past, reckon with the present, and look toward the future with hope.