[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.