    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 12 (Monday, March 22, 2004)]
    [Pages 433-434]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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

    March 19, 2004

        It is such an honor to come to a hospital like Walter Reed, for a
    couple of reasons. One is to meet the wounded who have made a decision
    to sacrifice for this Nation's security and for freedom in the world. It
    is an honor to meet their parents or their wives, their children--brave
    souls who support their loved one with all their heart.
        It's an honor to be with the doctors and nurses of this fantastic
    facility who are doing unbelievable work in helping bring these people
    back on their feet, back into their communities.
        One of the most important things for a Commander in Chief is to be
    able to say to a loved one, if your son or daughter or husband or wife
    gets injured, you'll get the best possible care as quickly as possible.
    Every time I come to Walter Reed, it confirms that which I know, which
    is: we're providing the very best--the best care, the best compassion.
    We're moving these soldiers from the battlefield to hospitals as quickly
    as we can so they can begin their rehab.
        And it's fantastic to go upstairs. The spirit is strong. The
    attitudes are terrific. Several soldiers told me today, badly injured
    soldiers--they want to get well quickly and get back on their duty
    stations in Iraq, want to serve our Nation.
        It is so refreshing and great to be here. I want to thank you,
    General, for your hospitality.

    Note: The President spoke at 3:05 p.m. In his remarks, he referred to
    Maj. Gen. Kevin Kiley, USA, commanding general, North Atlantic Regional
    Medical Command and Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

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