Michigan Mourners Honor State's only President

Some carried their winter caps in their hands. Some held children's hands, while others snapped off military salutes.
Jan 03, 2007 12:04 PM EST

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP) - Some carried their winter caps in their hands. Some held children's hands, while others snapped off military salutes.

A constant stream of mourners is paying last respects to the president that one Michigan resident says is their "legacy" -- a man from "simple beginnings" who changed history.

Some wore Michigan sweatshirts to pay tribute to the president who was a star athlete in his youth. A football left at a makeshift memorial outside was left with the words, "A true American and hometown hero."

An estimated 60-thousand people will have passed by the casket resting inside the Ford museum in Grand Rapids, before private services this afternoon at a nearby church.

Jimmy Carter, who went from rival presidential candidate to close friend, will be among those paying tribute to the 38th president.

Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.