Museum Tour - The Kuwaiti Door

Having been invaded and tyrannized by Iraq, Kuwait knew to what extent it owed its reclaimed freedom to George Bush. The small Arab country went to great lengths to show him its gratitude during his first visit there on April 14, 1993 - two years after the end of the Gulf War. Feted as guests of the Emir, the presidential party stayed in his Bayan palace. In addition, the former U.S. President was awarded the nation's highest civilian honor - the Mubarak, the great medal, never before bestowed on an American. "Mere words cannot express how proud I feel to be with you on the hallowed ground of Kuwait," President Bush told the Kuwait Parliament. "Thank you for honoring me and my country."

Also presented to President Bush was "The Gate of Kuwait." Made of teak, studded with domed nails, and sometimes elaborately carved, such doors were once the primary access to the walled homes of Kuwait's leading citizens. Over one hundred years old, the door is framed with plates bearing the names of American servicemen who died in the Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

The inscription below the door cites the old Kuwaiti proverb:

"When a man gives you the key to his home, it means you are the best and most valuable friend to him; when a man gives you the door of his home it means that you are one of his family."

A gift of great significance, this door symbolizes George Bush's place in Kuwait history as well as his place in Kuwaiti hearts.