    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [December 9, 2003]
    [Page 1702]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Resignation of Mel R. Martinez as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
    December 9, 2003

        Mel Martinez is a good friend and an exceptional public servant. As
    a refugee from Cuba, Mel came to America in search of freedom and
    opportunity as one of the many young children sent by their parents as
    part of a Catholic relief program known as Pedro Pan. As Secretary of
    Housing and Urban Development, he has worked tirelessly to help every
    American realize the promise of our country for themselves and their
    families. I appreciate the energy, optimism, and compassion he brought
    to my administration. I thank him for serving our Nation so selflessly,
    and Laura and I wish Mel, his wife,
    Kitty, and their family well.