G W Bush should have showed up. It was an opportunity for him to show true appreciation.
Excerpts from statement linked below:
“Laura and I have been watching the tragic events unfolding in Afghanistan with deep sadness. Our hearts are heavy for both the Afghan people who have suffered so much and for the Americans and NATO allies who have sacrificed so much.”
“We thank you from the bottom of our hearts and will always honor your contributions.”
GW Bush August 17, 2021
https://www.bushcenter.org/newsroom/statement-by-president-and-mrs-bush-on-afghanistan
I am ashamed to my core that I ever supported a Bush.