[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.