    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2007, Book I)]
    [May 25, 2007]
    [Page 626]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Following a Visit With Wounded Troops and Their Families at the
    National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland
    May 25, 2007

        First, I applaud the bipartisan effort to get a emergency
    supplemental bill to my desk. The Speaker and
    the leader said they would get it done by
    Memorial Day recess, and they have, and I appreciate that very much.
        You know, this effort shows what can happen when people work
    together. We set a good bill that didn't have timetables or tell the
    military how to do its job, but also sent a clear signal to the Iraqis
    that there's expectations here in America, expectations that we expect--
    about how to move forward. I look forward to continuing to work with the
    Prime Minister and his Government in meeting
    those expectations.
        I also am honored to be here at this place of compassion and healing
    on Memorial Day weekend. It's a weekend which gives us a chance to honor
    those who have served this country, whether it be in this war or in
    previous wars.
        In being here, I also want to honor the healers here at Bethesda.
    It's--health care here is remarkable. They're dealing with some of the
    very tragic injuries in this war. People come here without much hope,
    and they leave, in many cases, healed and ready to move on with their
    lives. So I thank the doctors and the nurses.
        I also thank the soldiers and their families who I met here, people
    who are remarkably brave and courageous. I'm constantly amazed at the
    strength of character of those who wear the uniform. To be the Commander
    and Chief of such men and women is really an awesome honor.
        And so to our troops and their families: May God bless you. And may
    God continue to bless our country.
        Thank you all very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 12:36 p.m. In his remarks, he referred to
    Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki of Iraq.