    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [December 5, 2006]
    [Page 2150]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Following a Meeting With Secretary of Defense-Designate Robert
    M. Gates
    December 5, 2006

        The President. Good morning. I just had a breakfast with my nominee
    to be the Secretary of Defense, Bob Gates. Bob Gates will be a fine
    Secretary of Defense. I appreciate the fact that he's getting a hearing
    today in the United States Senate. I hope for a speedy confirmation so
    he can get sworn in and get to work.
        Those who wear the uniform know they'll have a friend in Bob Gates
    in the Defense Department. He admires our military; he respects those
    who have volunteered to serve our country. He's going to do an excellent
    job for us.
        Again, Bob, I thank you for agreeing to serve.
        Secretary-designate Gates. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you very
    much.
        The President. Best of luck up there on Capitol Hill. Good luck to
    you.
        Secretary-designate Gates. Thank you.
        The President. Thank you all.

    Note: The President spoke at 7:48 a.m. in the Diplomatic Reception Room
    at the White House.