Before the looters took over

George H.W. Bush (1924-2018) in 1989.

“The government is here to serve, but it cannot replace individual service. And shouldn't all of us who are public servants also set an example of service as private citizens? So, I want to ask all of you, and all the appointees in this administration, to do what so many of you already do: to reach out and lend a hand. Ours should be a nation characterized by conspicuous compassion, generosity that is overflowing and abundant. And you can help make this happen outside of your workplace, in your communities and your neighborhoods, in any of the unlimited opportunities for voluntary service and charity where your help is so greatly needed.’’

—George H.W. Bush, 41st U.S. president, from 1989 to 1993. He was born in Massachusetts and grew up in affluent Greenwich, Conn. These remarks were in a speech to members of the Federal Senior Executive Service on Jan. 26, 1989.