"Mandela an Example That Should Inspire the World."

Obama Calls "Mandela an Example That Should Inspire the World."

Obama has directed that American flags be lowered to half-staff through Monday in honor of the freedom fighter who died Thursday at age 95.

In a proclamation honoring Mandela, Obama wrote that "the United States has lost a close friend, South Africa has lost an incomparable liberator, and the world has lost an inspiration for freedom, justice, and human dignity -- Nelson Mandela is no longer with us, he belongs to the ages."

White House statement:

"The President conveyed how profoundly Mandela's extraordinary example of moral courage, kindness, and humility influenced his own life, as well as those of millions around the world.

"President Obama reaffirmed that the strong and historic partnership between the United States and South Africa will continue to draw strength from Mandela's legacy as we work together to promote equality, reconciliation and human dignity, and to build a more just and prosperous world."