    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [December 26, 2006]
    [Page 2224]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Former President Gerald R. Ford
    December 26, 2006

        Laura and I are greatly saddened by the
    passing of former President Gerald R. Ford.
        President Ford was a great American who gave many years of dedicated
    service to our country. On August 9, 1974, after a long career in the
    House of
    Representatives and service as Vice President, he assumed the Presidency
    in an hour of national turmoil and division. With his quiet integrity,
    common sense, and kind instincts, President Ford helped heal our land
    and restore public confidence in the Presidency.
        The American people will always admire Gerald Ford's devotion to
    duty, his personal character, and the honorable conduct of his
    administration. We mourn the loss of such a leader, and our 38th
    President will always have a special place in our Nation's memory.
        On behalf of all Americans, Laura and I offer
    our deepest sympathies to Betty Ford and
    all of President Ford's family. Our thoughts and prayers will be with
    them in the hours and days ahead.

    Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language
    version of this statement.