QUOTE OF YESTERDAY
President Bush Visits National Fallen Firefighters Memorial
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial
Emmitsburg, Maryland
THE PRESIDENT: Thanks for the warm welcome. David, thank you very much for your introduction. Nothing better than being introduced by an old fire chief. And I thank you for your service, Dave. It is such an honor to be here. I was telling Laura on the phone -- she didn't make it, I apologize, and so does she -- but I said I'm going down the hill -- I was up at Camp David -- I'm going down the hill to be with some remarkable people and their families, and to honor those who served. I said, I can't wait to go, and to be in their midst, because I hold the firefighters in such high regard; I have a deep respect in my soul for people who serve our communities.
As David mentioned, far too often we go to sites that have been devastated by natural disaster, for example. Every time the firefighters are there, every time. It's clear that the people here who wear the uniform have a different view of jurisdiction than a lot of our citizens. You know, from New York after 9/11, to New Orleans after Katrina, there were firefighters from around the country there to help. The bond between the firefighters is obviously unique; it is definitely a source of strength. And it's a reminder that the work here is a calling, not a job.
I want to thank the foundation for working hard to ensure that the families of those who have died in -- are well treated. I want to tell you today that the Hometown Heroes Act will be fully implemented. This program will be administrated the way it was intended to be administrated. (Applause.) That's the least we can do as we honor the families of those who have died in the line of service.
I also am amazed at the compassion I see amongst those who wear the uniform for their comrades. Anyway, thanks for having me. I'm sorry it's under these circumstances that we have to be together. I hope our presence can help heal your hearts just a little bit. I'm looking forward to giving you a hug if you want a hug, or smiling for a picture if you want to smile for a picture. But most of all, I'm looking forward to honoring your loved ones.
PHOTO OF YESTERDAY
President George Bush greets and offers comfort to friends and family members of firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty, during a ceremony at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial service in Emmitsburg, Md., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2007. White House photo by Chris Greenberg