    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book II)]
    [September 5, 2005]
    [Pages 1397-1398]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks to the Community in Poplarville, Mississippi
    September 5, 2005

    [The President's remarks are joined in progress.]

        ----out of this despair is going to come a vibrant coast. It's--
    again, I understand if you're saying to yourself, ``Well, it's hard for
    me to realize what George W. is saying, because I've seen the rubble and
    I know what has happened to my neighbors.'' But I'd like to come back
    down here in about 2 years and walk your streets and see how vital this
    part of the world is going to be.

        I can't wait to join you in the joy of welcoming neighbors back into
    neighborhoods, and small businesses up and running, and cutting those
    ribbons that somebody is creating new jobs. That's what I think is going
    to happen.
        I just want you to know that when I'm thinking about how we can help
    this part of the world, Mississippi is on my mind. Mississippi is a part
    of the future of this country, and part of that future is to help you
    get back up on your feet. And I'm confident that your United States
    Senator Trent Lott, if I don't say it loud
    enough, he will. [Laughter] He'll remind us. But I appreciate you taking
    time out of your day.
        And by the way, I'm traveling with good company. My wife,
    Laura, is with me too.
        Let me conclude by asking for God's blessings on you all and your
    families and friends, and let you know we're here for the long term. I
    understand. I understand the damage. I understand the devastation.

    [[Page 1398]]

    I understand the destruction. I understand how long it's going to take.
    And we're with you. That's what I want you to know. God bless.

    Note: The President spoke at 2:12 p.m. at Pearl River Community College.
    The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language
    transcript of these remarks.