    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [November 21, 2003]
    [Page 1601]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the 40th Anniversary of the Death of President John F.
    Kennedy
    November 21, 2003

        This weekend the American people turn our thoughts to images of 40
    years ago and to the good and graceful life that ended on November 22,
    1963. John F. Kennedy has been gone nearly as long as he lived, yet the
    memory of him still brings pride to our Nation and a feeling of loss
    that defies the passing of years.
        We remember a man who welcomed great responsibilities and had a gift
    for awakening the idealism and sense of duty in others. We remember a
    leader who called our Nation to high purpose and saw America through
    grave dangers with calm, discernment, and personal courage. We recall,
    with much affection and respect, the charming and dignified manner that
    became familiar to us all in the years of President Kennedy's service.
        On this day especially, we think of a young father whose wife and
    family faced sorrow with dignity and a courage of their own. America
    still misses our 35th President, and Laura and I
    join our fellow citizens in honoring the memory of John Fitzgerald
    Kennedy.