[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.