Nelson Mandela was laid to rest in his ancestral home in Qunu on Sunday.
As his coffin was lowered into the grave, three military helicopters flew overhead, dangling the South African flag on weighted cables.
The scene echoed Mandela's inauguration as South Africa's first black president nearly two decades ago.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) SOUTH AFRICAN PRESIDENT, JACOB ZUMA, SAYING:
"We have to take your legacy forward..."
South African president Jacob Zuma spoke of Mandela's legacy and the country's future:
(SOUNDBITE) (English) SOUTH AFRICAN PRESIDENT, JACOB ZUMA, SAYING:
"One thing we can assure you of today Tata, as you take your final steps is that South Africa will continue to rise." (APPLAUSE)
Song rang out among the 4,500 dignitaries and mourners in attendance, celebrating Mandela's remarkable life.
Emotions ran high throughout the country, many glued to live broadcasts of the service.
In Soweto's Orlando stadium, hundreds g
