In the US who attends the funeral of a head of state of another nation?

Question

A while ago, when a prominent figure from another country passed away, I thought I heard that the Secretary of State attended the funeral and not the president. WHat is proper protical and why is it so

Answer 1

There is no formal policy.

If it's a major ally, often the President will attend. Less important allies, or important other countries will often have the vice-president in attendance.

George H.W. Bush was often dispatched to attend important funerals. He used to have a saying, "You die, I fly."

Answer 2

If the Australian or Brittish Prime Minister passed away most would expect the President to attend personally, given their close association. It would be exceedingly difficult to police the US Presidents arrival in many countries so I would agree a Representative or Head of State should attend. Even in Australia the security surrounding the President and his enclave is amazing, freeway traffic is stopped on both sides 5 minutes either way of his entourage to allow his unrestricted travel.

Answer 3

If a world leader who is in power dies while in office, and if they are an ally or influential world power, the US President usually attends, along with a delegation. You are referring to Boris Yeltsin. He was a former leader so the President asked Clinton, Bush and senior administration officials to attend in behalf of the American people.

Answer 4

Why is it the president can attends funerals of foreigners deaths and not attend a single funeral of a returning veteran who died with distinction?

Answer 5

I would the ambassador of that nation would represent the country....