    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book I)]
    [February 3, 1996]
    [Page 162]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks in Manchester, New Hampshire, on the Death of an
    American Soldier in Bosnia
    February 3, 1996

        I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of an American soldier
    this morning in Bosnia. This is the first fatality suffered by American
    service personnel in Operation Joint Endeavor. Hillary and I join all
    Americans in extending our deepest sympathies to his family and his
    friends. Our prayers are with you this afternoon and so is the pride of
    the Nation, for he gave his life in the noblest of causes, the search
    for peace.
        I have been clear since before this operation began that our mission
    to secure peace in Bosnia would entail some risks. We have done
    everything we could to minimize those risks, and all Americans should
    know that we have provided our troops with the best training, the best
    equipment, to confront the challenges they face in Bosnia, and they are
    very well-led in a careful implementation of their mission. We will
    continue to take every precaution we can to protect our troops as they
    work to secure an enduring peace in Bosnia. And all of our troops should
    know that today our thoughts and our sincere gratitude are with them,
    especially on this difficult day.
        Thank you very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 3:30 p.m. at the Manchester airport. In his
    remarks, he referred to Sfc. Donald A. Dugan, USA.