[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 3 (Monday, January 20, 2003)]
[Pages 80-81]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks After Visiting Wounded Soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical 
Center

January 17, 2003

    I want to thank the General for--for his hospitality at this 
remarkable facility, which is full of healers and compassionate people, 
people who are trained with the very best of skills to take care of 
people who have been injured badly.
    Laura and I have just met with five incredibly brave soldiers, five 
of America's finest citizens, who have been severely injured in the line 
of duty. We had a chance to tell them how much we appreciated their 
service to America, how much we appreciated their loved ones. And we had 
a chance to see--some wives and a couple of moms who are anxious about--
about the fate of the--of their child. And I had a chance to tell both 
soldier and loved one alike that their service to their country was 
noble and strong and good. And I appreciate that very much.
    Having been here and seeing the care that these troops get is 
comforting for me and Laura. We are--should and must provide the best 
care for anybody who is willing to put their life in harm's way. And I 
can report to the American people that these five soldiers, badly 
injured in the line of service, are getting the best possible care. And 
our Government is providing it to them. I want to thank you all. Have a 
great weekend, and we'll see you next week.

Note: The President spoke at 2:15 p.m. in the second floor lobby. In his 
remarks, he referred to Maj. Gen. Kevin Kiley, USA, commanding general, 
North Atlantic Regional Medical Command and Walter Reed. The Office of 
the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language transcript of these 
remarks.

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