    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 15 (Monday, April 15, 2002)]
    [Page 582]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Remarks During a Tour of the Citizens Police Academy in Knoxville,
    Tennessee

    April 8, 2002

        Thanks, I'm honored to be here. I'm here to explain to the Nation
    the importance of citizens becoming involved with preparedness in their
    communities. And I want to thank the chief and the mayor, and thank you,
    Captain, for providing an outlet for good citizens who love their
    country, and who generally have asked the question, ``What can I do to
    make my community a better place?''
        The reason we've come to Knoxville is because this is a model
    program. And I want other people to see what is possible. I also want
    them to see the good citizens in action, like yourselves. I want to
    thank you--I'm a grateful President, for a grateful nation, for helping
    your community.

    Note: The President spoke at 11:43 a.m. in Training Room A of the
    Knoxville Police Department Training Facility. In his remarks, he
    referred to Mayor Victor H. Ashe of Knoxville; and Chief of Police Phil
    E. Keith and Captain Don Green of the Knoxville Police Department. A
    tape was not available for verification of the content of these remarks.