WASHINGTON D.C. -- Thursday morning was a somber one for the Graham family and other members of the North Carolina delegation including Richard Burr and Robert Pittenger.
Both men were on hand on the east side of the US Capitol Building for the 20 minute departure ceremony. Reverend Billy Graham’s casket had been on display in the US Capitol Rotunda all day Wednesday. Thousands of people from across the country spent hours waiting in lane in order walk through the rotunda to pay their respects.
PHOTOS: Rev. Billy Graham honored at U.S. Capitol
Wednesday members of the military carried Graham’s casket down the steps and placed inside the hearse before driving to Dulles Airport.
“I’m lifted up because I know the meaning that he’s had on our country and the world. What an honor to be there and participate at this great moment for the United States and honor the (Graham) family,” explained Congressman Pittenger from North Carolina.
Franklin Graham and other members of the family were given a flag that had been flown over the rotunda this morning.
Congressman Pittenger told NBC Charlotte even though Graham’s body is now back in Charlotte, he will forever have a place in Washington, DC.
“It’s been approved and it will happen,” the Congressman said.
Pittenger is talking about a statue of Billy Graham, the statue is said to replace former North Carolina Governor, Charles Aycock inside Statuary Hall.
“There will be a statue of Billy Graham in the Capitol. It’s been approved by the North Carolina legislature,” Pittenger said.
We’re told design work and construction could begin in a matter of months.