    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book I)]
    [June 25, 1997]
    [Page 820]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Jacques Cousteau
    June 25, 1997

        Hillary and I, along with tens of millions around the world, were
    saddened to learn of the death of a man with rare insight and
    extraordinary spirit, Jacques Cousteau. While we mourn his death, it is
    far more appropriate that we celebrate his remarkable life and the gifts
    he gave to all of us.
        Jacques Cousteau will be remembered for many things. He enabled
    mankind to truly become part of the sea and the creatures that live
    there, inventing scuba gear and creating the first one-person submarine.
    Most appropriately, he will be remembered for his service to us all on
    the good ship Calypso. Through his many documentaries, movies, and
    television specials, Captain Cousteau showed us both the importance of
    the world's oceans and the beauty that lies within. We are all far
    richer, and more caring, for his having shared his time on Earth with
    the human family.
        One of his most important documentaries was titled ``The World of
    Silence.'' Thanks to a life spent dedicated to serving all of God's
    creation, his legacy will be not silence. Rather, it will be continuing
    to inspire people the world over to love, appreciate, and respect the
    sea.