Capital bids bye from under security blanket

With presidential pomp and traditions born more than a century ago, the US capital prepared to honour Ronald Reagan, 93, this week with an additional 21st century touch—heightened security. Washington’s observances for former President Reagan, who died on Saturday, have been designated as a National Special Security Event, which means the Secret Service will be in charge of security.

Though the Secret Service, charged with security for the US President, did not detail plans, thousands of police officers and and other security officials were expected to fortify the nation’s capital. Apart from a number of expected street closures, stringent rules will be in place for the viewing of the casket. President George W. Bush proclaimed Friday a day of national mourning for Reagan and closed the federal government for the day.

The last presidential memorial to be held in Washington was in 1973 for Lyndon Johnson. Reagan’s funeral is expected to follow some of the traditions used then. On Friday, a motorcade will transport Reagan’s body to the National Cathedral, where the funeral service will be conducted. Later, the casket will be flown back to California for a private burial at the library. — (Reuters)