(Reuters) – Saluting, clenching fists and making the Roman Catholic sign of the cross over Hugo Chavez’s casket, Venezuelans crowded on Thursday to see their deceased leader one last time and pledge that his socialist revolution will not die.

Grieving supporters lined around a grandiose military academy in a mass show of devotion to Chavez, who died on Tuesday at age 58 after a two-year battle with cancer.

More than 2 million people have already paid their respects.

From soldiers in fatigues to officers in ceremonial dress, senior ministers to residents of the slums where Chavez was most loved, those in line vowed to defend his legacy and back his preferred heir, acting President Nicolas Maduro, in a new vote.

“We want to see the president, we want to be there for his last moments,” said Trinidad Nunez, 40, outside the building where Chavez’s body will lie in state until a funeral on Friday.

“It is up to us to carry on the revolution and do what Chavez asked us to do: support Maduro.”

Chavez was dressed in an army uniform and a signature red beret like the one he wore in a 1992 speech to the nation that launched his political career after he led a failed coup.

Read More via At Chavez’s coffin, Venezuelans vow more revolution | Reuters.

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