Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster received a “clap out” from a large crowd of Trump administration staffers on Friday as he left behind his role as national security adviser.
Just before 4 p.m., the crowd, which gathered between the White House and the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, broke into cheers for about three minutes as they witnessed McMaster waking out, according to a press pool report.
Journalists nearby took photos and video of the send-off, with one noting the large gathering was “unusual” for a departing national security adviser.
Large group of people gathered on a West Executive Drive next to the West Wing right now, which is unusual. Not clear why, but speculation is it has to do with National Security Advisor McMaster’s last day today. pic.twitter.com/N8WhVDXBnG
— Eamon Javers (@EamonJavers) April 6, 2018
A statement from White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said McMaster met with John Bolton, the former United Nations ambassador who is taking his place next week, for a final transition meeting during the afternoon.
WATCH: White House staff say goodbye to H.R. McMaster on his last day as national security adviser. pic.twitter.com/ZlGABp7f6t
— NBC News (@NBCNews) April 6, 2018
After that meeting, McMaster and his family “met with the President who thanked McMaster for his service and time as National Security Advisor,” the statement added.
On his last day as National Security Adviser, Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster and wife, acknowledge applause from WH/NSC staffers during “clap out” tribute as he departs WH. (Official White House Photo by Keegan Barber) pic.twitter.com/4FI4dygmKW
— Mark Knoller (@markknoller) April 6, 2018
Late last month, President Trump announced via tweet Bolton would be replacing McMaster on April 9.
Earlier today, Pres Trump thanks and bids farewell to LTG McMaster, who @POTUS ousted as National Security Advisor. (Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian) pic.twitter.com/KIQNH1NgFE
— Mark Knoller (@markknoller) April 6, 2018
McMaster, an Army lieutenant general, wrote in a statement at the time that his departure from the Trump administration would coincide with his retirement from the military.
“After thirty-four years of service to our nation, I am requesting retirement from the U.S. Army effective this summer after which I will leave public service,” McMaster said. “Throughout my career it has been my greatest privilege to serve alongside extraordinary servicemembers and dedicated civilians.”
McMaster succeeded Michael Flynn as national security adviser back in February 2017.
