[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 52 (Monday, December 27, 2004)]
[Page 3009]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks Following a Visit With Wounded Troops at Walter Reed Army 
Medical Center

December 21, 2004

    Laura and I have just come from a remarkable place called the Fisher 
House, a facility where wounded soldiers and their families are provided 
comfort during their trials. And we just want to thank the people who 
have supported the Fisher House, thank the folks here at Walter Reed for 
providing such incredibly good health care.
    Today we had a rocket attack that took a lot of lives. Any time of 
the year it's a time of sorrow and sadness when we lose a loss of life. 
This time of year is particularly sorrowful for the families as we head 
into the Christmas season. We pray for them. We send our heartfelt 
condolences to the loved ones who suffer today. Just want them to know 
that the mission is a vital mission for peace. The idea of a democracy 
taking hold in what was a place of tyranny and hatred and destruction is 
such a hopeful moment in the history of the world.
    And I want to thank the soldiers who are there and thank those who 
have sacrificed and the families who are worried about them during this 
Christmas season for their sacrifices. This is a very important and 
vital mission. I'm confident democracy will prevail in Iraq. I know a 
free Iraq will lead to a more peaceful world. So we ask for God's 
blessings on all who are involved in that vital mission.
    Thank you very much. Have a good holiday.

Note: The President spoke at 3:07 p.m.