    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [January 13, 2005]
    [Pages 48-49]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks to Reporters Following Briefings in Arlington, Virginia
    January 13, 2005

    War on Terror/Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunamis Disaster Relief

        The President. Mr. Secretary, thank
    you very much for the briefing that we just had. The Secretary arranged
    for a briefing from Admiral Fargo and our
    commanders on the ground who are providing organization and handling the
    relief effort for the victims of the tsunamis. I got to tell you, our
    military is making a significant difference in providing relief and aid
    and help

    [[Page 49]]

    and compassion for those who have suffered. I am very impressed, Mr.
    Secretary, by how quickly we have responded and the assets that you have
    ordered deployed to help these people. And there's a lot of talk about
    how some in the world don't appreciate America. Well, I can assure you
    that those who have been helped by our military appreciate America.
        We also talked about the war on terror. We're constantly reviewing
    our strategy as to how to defeat the enemy--fully recognize that the war
    on terror will require a coordinated effort within our own Government as
    well as a coordinated effort with the countries around the world which
    understand the stakes of this war. I am pleased with the response from
    around the world, appreciate so many nations understanding that we must
    work together to defeat these killers. I'm mindful of the fact that we
    have--constantly have got to review our plans and never lose our will.
        So, Mr. Secretary, thanks for the
    briefing. It was a very good briefing, and you're doing a fine job on
    behalf of the American people.
        Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld. Thank you, sir.
        The President. Thank you all.

    Note: The President spoke at 11:21 a.m. at the Pentagon. In his remarks,
    he referred to Adm. Thomas B. Fargo, USN, commander, U.S. Pacific
    Command.