[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.