You have seen the much publicized President Obama’s infamous selfie ( below). There were many other great and beautiful images at the Mandela Memorial Service that made it such an extraordinary event. From the attendance by over 90 heads of states, to the handshake between the US and the Cuban leader Castro. Although it was pouring with rain, an estimated crowd of 50,000 filled FNB soccer arena. The mood was not somber as you would expect. It was jubilant with celebrations, singing and dancing throughout the 4 hour event. It was a wonderful send-off, worthy of an extraordinary life well lived.
President Obama helps Danmark Prime Minister Helle Thorning Schmidt with the cellphone before taking a self portrait with British Prime Minister David Cameroon.
The attendance was estimated at 50,000 people
The crowd responding with slogans, songs and dance
The President and Michelle Obama, President and Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton arrive in South Africa on Air Force One
Over 90 current heads of states were in attendance
The controversial handshake between President Obama and Raul Castro. This was a first recorded handshake between two country leaders since 1959
Mandela’s 2nd wife Winnie and Bishop Desmond Tutu
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon with South African President Jacob Zuma
Celebrities were also in attendance. Bono with South African born Charlize Theron
Waiting for dinner. President George and Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton joined President Obama on the Air Force One to South Africa. President Bill Clinton and President Carter who also attended the memorial service travelled separately
Aboard the Air Force One to South Africa. President Bush shares his painting work
President Obama speaks at the memorial service
The Bush and the Clinton families
Farewell Kiss
Beautiful Images From Mandela Memorial Service