[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 38 (Monday, September 22, 2003)]
[Pages 1240-1241]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a 
Supplemental Appropriations Request for Ongoing Military and 
Intelligence Operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Elsewhere

September 17, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker:

    Two years ago, we responded to attacks on America by launching a 
global war against terrorism that has removed gathering threats to 
America and our allies and has liberated the Iraqi and Afghan people 
from oppression and fear.
    America is making steady progress in the war on terror. Nearly two-
thirds of al Qaeda's leadership has been captured or killed. In 
Afghanistan, we removed the Taliban from power and shut down terrorist 
training camps. In Iraq, we led a coalition that removed a dangerous 
tyrant who sponsored terror, possessed and used weapons of mass 
destruction, and for 12 years defied the clear demands of the United 
Nations Security Council.

[[Page 1241]]

    Today, I am submitting a request for 2004 supplemental 
appropriations for ongoing military and intelligence operations in Iraq, 
Afghanistan, and elsewhere. Our men and women in uniform, alongside our 
coalition partners, are bringing peace and stability to Iraq and 
fighting the terrorist threat. In Afghanistan, our Armed Forces continue 
to track down terrorists and provide security as the Afghan people 
rebuild their nation. Our commitment to ongoing operations against 
terrorism is worthy of our country and critical to our security.
    My request also supports the Coalition Provisional Authority's 
reconstruction operations in Iraq and supports reconstruction efforts in 
Afghanistan. These reconstruction funds are essential to secure the 
transition to self-government and to create conditions for economic 
growth and investment. By helping the Iraqi and Afghan people build free 
and democratic nations, America and our allies are bringing freedom and 
hope to a troubled region, and undermining a key base of operations for 
terrorists. The sooner we achieve these conditions, the sooner our 
troops will return home.
    This request reflects urgent and essential requirements. I ask the 
Congress to appropriate the funds as requested, and promptly return the 
bill to me for signature. I hereby designate the specific proposals in 
the amounts requested herein as emergency requirements. I urge the 
Congress not to attach items that are not directly related to the 
emergency abroad.
    The details of the request are set forth in the enclosed letter from 
the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
     Sincerely,

                                                George W. Bush

Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of 
this letter.