    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book I)]
    [January 17, 2003]
    [Pages 65-66]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks After Visiting Wounded Soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical
    Center
    January 17, 2003

        I want to thank the General for--for his
    hospitality at this remarkable facility, which is full of healers and
    compassionate people, people who are trained with the very best of
    skills to take care of people who have been injured badly.
        Laura and I have just met with five
    incredibly brave soldiers, five of America's finest citizens, who have
    been severely injured in the line of duty. We had a chance to tell them
    how much we appreciated their service to America, how much we
    appreciated their loved ones. And we had a chance to see--some wives and
    a couple of moms who are anxious about--about the fate of the--of their
    child. And I had a chance to tell both soldier and loved one alike that
    their service to their country was noble and strong and good. And I
    appreciate that very much.
        Having been here and seeing the care that these troops get is
    comforting for me and Laura. We are--should and must provide the best
    care for anybody who is willing to put their life in harm's way. And I
    can report to the American people that these five soldiers, badly
    injured in the line of service, are getting the best possible care. And
    our Government is providing it to them.
        I want to thank you all. Have a great weekend, and we'll see you
    next week.

    Note: The President spoke at 2:15 p.m. in the second floor lobby. In his
    remarks, he referred to Maj. Gen. Kevin Kiley, USA,

    [[Page 66]]

    commanding general, North Atlantic Regional Medical Command and Walter
    Reed. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language
    transcript of these remarks.