    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 21 (Monday, May 28, 2001)]
    [Pages 797-798]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Remarks at a Military Reenlistment Ceremony

    May 23, 2001

        I don't know if the Commander in Chief is allowed to say this, but
    I'm going to anyway. At ease. [Laughter]
        Mr. Secretary, thank you very much for your service to the country.
    It's fitting that he is here today, because a few months ago, Secretary
    Rumsfeld re-upped himself. [Laughter] And the Nation is better off for
    it. General Shelton, thank you for being here. Joint Chiefs, thank you
    all for coming--family and friends.
        Before I begin my remarks, I want to take note of a major event that
    took place today in the United States Senate. Just a little over an hour
    ago, the United States Senate, in an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote,
    voted to give the tax relief to the American people. The House of
    Representatives has already voted in favor of tax relief. So I'm pleased
    to report today that tax relief is on the way.
        I want to congratulate the 62 Senators who voted for this important
    measure. Senator Lott and Senator Grassley, Senator Baucus, Senator
    Miller, and Senator Breaux led the way in giving this victory to the
    American people. And they deserve our country's thanks and praise.
        The economy needs a shot in the arm, so I call on the House and the
    Senate to reach an agreement on the final tax relief package this week.
    The sooner the Congress completes its work, the sooner the American
    people will have their own money in their own pockets to save and invest
    as they see fit. Our economy cannot afford any further delays.
        And now to the task at hand. I am so appreciative that General
    Shelton and the other leaders of the military are here. The men and
    women now know how proud you are of their decision to take another tour
    of duty. And I'm proud, too. And I welcome you all to the White House.
        For two centuries this house has been the final point of decision in
    the chain of command. Here President Wilson decided that American
    soldiers would have to go to Europe to fight in World War I. Here
    Franklin Roosevelt first learned of the attack at Pearl Harbor, and
    within days, America began a 4-year war in two theaters. Here four
    modern Presidents dealt with the struggle in Vietnam, from beginning to
    end.
        Every major military operation of the last 200 years was set in
    motion at the White House. The circumstances have varied greatly, but no
    President has ever had reason to doubt the ability and commitment of the
    American Armed Forces. You have shown that commitment today. Like many
    thousands of others who will reenlist this year, you've done yourselves
    credit, and you've paid your country a high tribute. The choice was
    yours to make, and you volunteered again, and your country is very
    grateful.
        Our military depends on reenlistment. This is especially true now,
    as military technology and equipment grow more complex and more
    demanding. Perhaps more than ever, the success of our all-volunteer
    force requires that we keep the best people, the most experienced
    technicians, and mature leaders of the highest caliber. That is what
    America gains with each one of you who stays.
        In return, America owes you every ounce of support you need to carry
    out your daily mission. When reenlistment declines, that's usually a
    sign that such support is missing. I have promised never to let that
    support waver, never to take you for granted. As long as I live under
    this roof, our country and our military will be prepared to meet any
    challenge the future may bring.

    [[Page 798]]

        For many of you, the decision to reenlist wasn't made alone. You all
    know the saying: Soldiers enlist, but families reenlist. [Laughter] And
    we have many family members here. You're not taking an oath, but you're
    making an important commitment. And along the way, all of you have made
    your share of sacrifices. And I appreciate the chance to thank you for
    it.
        When I speak of supporting the military, that means family members,
    as well, the bases you call home and the schools where you send your
    children.
        For those who are about to take the oath, congratulations. You
    repeat some familiar words. You will do so with self-assurance that you
    might not have had the first time. That comes with hard work and
    discipline and service to our country. I want each of you to return to
    your posts with the knowledge that you have my gratitude and full
    confidence. Thank you again.
        And now it is my honor to turn over the proceedings to General
    Shelton, who will administer the oath of office.

    Note: The President spoke at 4:30 p.m. in the East Room at the White
    House.