    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [November 7, 2003]
    [Page 1490]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on House of Representatives Action on the Defense
    Authorization Conference Report
    November 7, 2003

        I commend the House for passing the Defense Authorization conference
    report and showing strong bipartisan support for America's national
    security, our troops, and their families. This bill includes my request
    for a third straight pay raise, more resources for equipment and
    training, and quality of life improvements so that our military
    continues to be the finest fighting force in the world.
        The legislation also makes good progress toward transforming and
    modernizing our military so that it is best prepared to protect
    Americans.
        Finally, I am pleased that the House has resolved the issue of
    concurrent receipt for military retirees in a fair and responsible
    manner.