    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [July 18, 1999]
    [Pages 1243-1244]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on the Search for John F. Kennedy, Jr., Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, and Lauren Bessette
    July 18, 1999

        As the search continues, I want to express our family's support, and
    offer our prayers and those of all Americans for John Kennedy, Jr.; his
    wife, Carolyn; her sister Lauren; and to their fine families.
        I also want to thank the Coast Guard and all those who have worked
    so hard in this endeavor.
        For more than 40 years now, the Kennedy family has inspired
    Americans to public service, strengthened our faith in the future, and
    moved our Nation forward. Through it all they have suffered much, and
    given more.
        In recent years, in particular, John Kennedy, Jr., and Carolyn have
    captured our imagination and won our affection. I will always be
    grateful for their kindnesses to Hillary and Chelsea and me.
        At this difficult moment, we hope the families of these three fine
    young people will feel the strength of God, the love of their friends,
    and the prayers of their fellow citizens.
        Thank you.

    Note: The President spoke at 4:13 p.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House. In his remarks, he referred to the search and rescue efforts off

    [[Page 1244]]

    the coast of Martha's Vineyard, MA, to locate the aircraft that carried
    Mr. Kennedy, his wife, and her sister, who were reported missing on July
    17.