    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book II)]
    [October 24, 2008]
    [Pages 1338-1339]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks Following a Briefing at the National Security Agency at Fort
    Meade, Maryland
    October 24, 2008

        I want to thank General Alexander for
    his hospitality to me and the Vice President and
    Director McConnell. We have been here
    at NSA, which is on the frontline of protecting the American people.
    Every time I come out here, I'm impressed by the caliber of people who
    work here, the amount of energy that goes into their jobs, and their
    deep desire to find an enemy and bring them to justice before they hurt
    us again.
        Ever since 9/11, the people in this building have done what the
    country expects them to do, and that is to work as hard as necessary to
    help protect the United States of America. The work here at the NSA is
    absolutely vital, and I wish all our citizens could meet the folks that
    work here and realize how smart they are, how capable they are, and how
    enthusiastic they are in doing their duty.
        So, General, thank you for your
    hospitality. We've enjoyed coming out here, and appreciate the efforts
    you're putting into protecting the homeland.
        Thank you all very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 12:50 p.m. in the Operations Building. In
    his remarks, he referred to Lt. Gen. Keith B. Alexander, USA, Director,
    National Security Agency.

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