    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 30, Number 19 (Monday, May 16, 1994)]
    [Page 1060]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on the Death of Lewis Puller

    May 12, 1994

        I am saddened by the death of my friend Lewis Puller, who served his
    country with honor and distinction. As the son of America's most
    decorated Marine veteran of World War II and a winner of the Pulitzer
    Prize for his moving story of his personal struggle, ``Fortunate Son,''
    Lewis Puller was a true American hero. His death reminds us all of the
    grief that still haunts so many of America's veterans today, of the
    wounds that never heal, and the loved ones left behind.
        My most memorable moment with Lewis was on Memorial Day a year ago
    at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, when he appeared at that ceremony
    unexpectedly and wheeled himself up next to me on the platform. I want
    his wife, Toddy, and his children, Lewis and Maggie, to know that it was
    an honor for me to be by his side on that day, and as Memorial Day
    approaches again, Lewis will hold a special place in my thoughts and
    prayers.