    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book II)]
    [August 18, 1996]
    [Page 1303]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 1303]]

    Remarks on the Aircraft Tragedy in Wyoming and an Exchange With
    Reporters
    August 18, 1996

        The President. Before I leave, I'd just like to say how very sad and
    shocked Hillary and I were to receive word early this morning of the
    crash of the Air Force transport plane coming out of Wyoming. There are
    always significant dangers associated with our Armed Forces, the people
    in our Secret Service, and others who do this work, but this is
    especially painful to us because they worked for me. They did an
    invaluable service, and I'm very, very sad about it.
        The local law enforcement people are on the ground doing the search
    now. I have sent an Air Force team of inspectors there. We do not know
    what caused the crash at this time. And I think for the moment, I'd just
    like to say that our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the
    people who were lost, along with our everlasting gratitude.
        Thank you.
        Q. Mr. President, can you confirm reports that the pilot may have
    been having mechanical difficulties and----
        The President. When I got--I cannot confirm any final reports. Last
    night--maybe it was 2:30 this morning, quarter to 3, it was about that
    time when I got a call. I was told that they thought the pilot had
    turned around to come back to the airport. And that's the last--that's
    the last word I have on the facts. But we should be able to tell you
    more by the end of the day, because they're out there.

    ``60 Minutes'' Interview

        Q. Happy birthday, Mr. President. Did you lay a glove on Dole in the
    interview?
        The President. I don't have any idea. You all watch it and tell me.
    I wouldn't know. But I'm just happy to be here--still standing--at 50.
        Thank you.

    Note: The President spoke at 2:24 p.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House, prior to his departure for New York City.