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Statement By The President At Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo
U.S.Newswire, 7/24/2001 09:41
To: National Desk
Contact: White House Press Office, 202-456-2580
WASHINGTON, July 24 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The following was released today by the White House:
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
AT CAMP BONDSTEEL, KOSOVO
Last month in Warsaw, I spoke about the importance of building a Europe that is whole, free, and at peace. I said that this new Europe must include the Balkans. A few years ago, that vision would have seemed fanciful. Today, as I meet here with our forces at Camp Bondsteel, that vision is within our reach.
Croatia has become a responsible source of regional stability. The people of Yugoslavia have chosen democracy over dictatorship and have sent their former dictator to The Hague. Albania's recent elections, while less than perfect, were still a step forward in its democratic development. There are moderate governments in Bosnia-Herzegovina willing to work as serious partners with the international community in preparing their country for European integration. For the first time in history, all the governments of the region are democratic, committed to cooperating with each other, and predisposed to joining Europe.
But difficult challenges remain. Civil institutions are weak and vulnerable to corruption. Organized crime is widespread, sometimes hiding behind narrow, nationalistic agendas. There is too much dependence on foreign assistance and not enough foreign investment. And ethnic extremists are still stoking the flames of intolerance and inciting violence, hoping to subvert democracy, redraw borders, or advance criminal pursuits.
The greatest challenge today is in Macedonia, where armed insurgents threaten peace and stability. Some here in Kosovo are trying to help the insurgents.
Let me be clear: The United States stands against all who use or support violence against democracy and the rule of law. That's why American forces in Kosovo are interdicting the flow of arms into Macedonia. And that's why I imposed sanctions against individuals and organizations assisting the insurgents. The United States, EU, and NATO strongly back ongoing efforts to find a political settlement -- one that addresses the legitimate grievances of the Albanian population while protecting Macedonia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, its political unity, and its democratic future. I call on all parties to maintain the cease-fire. And I call on the elected leaders to work with EU envoy Leotard and Ambassador Pardew to overcome the remaining differences to achieving a settlement that will keep Macedonia at peace and on the road to Europe.
Those here in Kosovo who support the insurgency in Macedonia are hurting the interests of ethnic Albanians throughout the region. The people of Kosovo should focus on Kosovo. They need to concentrate on developing civil institutions that work and a political climate that supports and sustains democracy, the rule of law, ethnic tolerance, and cooperation with neighbors. November's election will be an important step in that direction. We call on all people of Kosovo to participate, so that no one is denied the benefits of democracy.
As the people and countries of the Balkans move closer to Europe, it is only natural that Europe assume increasing leadership and responsibility. I welcome the European Union's commitment to play a leading role in the stabilization and development of the region. I similarly welcome the willingness of our allies to provide the bulk of the NATO task force poised to collect the insurgents' weapons after a peaceful settlement in Macedonia. The cooperation of the United States, NATO, and the EU in Macedonia is a model that we can build upon in the future.
More than thirty countries -- NATO allies, NATO partners, and other friends -- are, together with America, providing forces here in Kosovo. We understand that America's contribution is essential, both militarily and politically. We will not draw down our forces in Bosnia or Kosovo precipitously or unilaterally. We came in together, and we will go out together. But our goal is to hasten the day when peace is self-sustaining, when local, democratically elected authorities can assume full responsibility, and when NATO's forces can go home. This means that we must re-organize and re-energize our efforts to build civil institutions and promote rule of law. It also means that we must step up our efforts to transfer responsibilities for public security from combat forces to specialized units, international police, and ultimately local authorities. NATO's commitment to the peace of this region is enduring, but the stationing of our forces here should not be indefinite.
The American soldiers here at Camp Bondsteel -- and at bases and on patrol elsewhere in Kosovo and in Bosnia -- symbolize America's commitment to building the better, broader, more peaceful Europe that is within our grasp. We are very proud of our soldiers and of the American diplomats and civil police who work alongside them. Together with our allies and friends and the people of the Balkans, we are confident that we will reach this common goal.
Well Pericles old chap here is the Presidents statement.
Cheers Tony
Here is more.
Transcript of Bush Remarks To The American Troops In Kosovo
U.S.Newswire, 7/24/2001 09:37
To: National Desk
Contact: White House Press Office, 202-456-2580
WASHINGTON, July 24 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The following is a transcript of remarks by the President to the American troops in Kosovo: Camp Bondsteel Kosovo
1:08 p.m. (Local)
PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you very much. It's always a proud moment for the Commander-in-Chief to see the troops who uphold the values of our country.
Especially here, seeing in a foreign land, brings home the true meaning of the sacrifices you make for our freedom.
Thank you, General David, for your kind introduction and your hospitality. Laura and I are honored to be here. I also want to recognize the leadership of Senior NCO Command Sergeant Major Marvin Hill. (Applause and cheers.)
I want to know what you did, Marvin. (Laughter.) You got some of the folks kind of excited when I mentioned your name. (Cheers.)
We're honored to be here. I realize that on July 4, you had the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. (Applause and cheers.) I recognize I don't look quite as pretty -- but I am from Texas. (Applause.) And I'm proud to be an American. (Applause.) And I know you are, as well, because we represent a great land, great land. (Applause.)
I'm also looking forward to having a lunch with some of you in a while. The General mentioned that I like PT -- I'm going to eat lightly because I look forward to leading a run up Radar Hill after lunch. (Applause and cheers.) Are you ready to go? (Applause and cheers.)
I want you to know that there's no higher honor than to serve as your Commander-in-Chief. America appreciates your service and sacrifices for our country. And I'm here to tell you that.
It's good to be here with the Screaming Eagles of the 101st Airborne. (Applause and cheers.) You just lived up to your name. I also want to thank the members of the United States Army Reserve, the Air Force, the Navy and Marine Corps, and the National Guard units from Nebraska, Rhode Island and Tennessee. (Cheers.) I thank the civilians and contractors who helped build this base. (Cheers.)
My first opportunity as President to address America's military forces came at Fort Stewart, Georgia. (Cheers.) It's great to be back with the Dog-Face soldiers of the -- (cheers.) I think I'll repeat what I said there -- Oorah! (Cheers.)
And finally, I want to thank all our allies who join in this mission -- Greece, Italy, Jordan, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. (Cheers.) It's a long list. It speaks volumes about why you are so good at your mission. You come from many nations, many cultures and many continents -- just like amongst the U.S. military personnel, many races and many faiths, many traditions represented.
Your diversity and close cooperation, General, in the cause of peace, is an example of the people of this region. And it's a rebuke to the ethnic intolerance and narrow nationalism that brought us here in the first place. <
As we head into the 21st century, we must not allow difference to be a license to kill, and vulnerability an excuse to dominate. We will pursue a world of tolerance and freedom. From Kosovo to Kashmir, from the Middle East to Northern Ireland, freedom and tolerance is the defining issue for our world. And your service here has set an example for the whole world to see.
We're making good progress. Thanks to you and those who served before you, the people of Kosovo are able to buy food and find shelter, go to school, and get medical help. Thanks to you, there will be elections here in November -- elections where we want to see the widest-possible participation.
Thanks to you, there are fewer arms flowing into Macedonia and a hope for peace in that land. Thanks to you and the service of our forces throughout the Balkans, the region is growing closer to the rest of Europe.
But there's still a lot of work to do. Civil institutions must be put in place and made stronger. Organized crime must be brought under control. War criminals must face justice. Kosovo must not be a safe haven for insurgencies elsewhere.
America has a vital interest in the European stability, and therefore, peace in the region. That's why I've recently taken steps to cut off outside support to the rebels in Macedonia. That's why we need you to keep patrolling the border and cutting off the arms flow.
Each and every day your work is important to people of this region and for peace that NATO is committed to building here. America and allied forces came into Bosnia and Kosovo; they came in together, and we will leave together. Our goal is to hasten the day when peace is self-sustaining; when local democratically-elected authorities can assume full responsibility; and when NATO forces can go home. (Applause.)
As well, you not only need to have a clear mission here, but we need to have a Commander-in-Chief with a clear vision, who sets clear goals for our military. (Applause.) And those goals are to be well-equipped and well-trained, to be able to fight and win war, and therefore, prevent war from happening in the first place. (Applause.)
I know how hard frequent deployments are on you and your family. I know that America owes you a decent quality of life. And those who wear America's uniform deserve America's full support. (Applause.) And you've got it. (Applause.)
I'm going to do something unusual here. I brought with me a piece of legislation, a supplemental spending bill for this year's defense budget. It's been passed by the House, passed by the Senate, differences were reconciled. So I'm going to sign it here, because it contains $1.9 billion for pay, benefits and health care. (Applause.) And, by the way, the tax cut is real, too. (Applause.)
I'm also pleased that next year's defense budget request includes an additional $2.2 billion for pay and benefits --beyond the supplemental I'm signing here today. And that will include housing, as well as an additional $2.3 billion for improved health care.
(Applause.) And it's important for the Congress to hear this message. It's important for Congress to start dealing with next year's defense budget now.
(Applause.) To not only include the request we made initially, but the amendment to the defense bill.
The Congress has got to keep in mind the needs of those who wear the uniform. (Applause.) And I expect quick response from the members of the United States Congress. (Applause.) When I ran for promise -- I promised America that help is on the way for the men and women who wear our uniform. (Applause.) Today, I'm proud to say, help is arriving. (Applause.) I'm committed that America does a better job of supporting you all.
For every one of you has dedicated yourself to something greater than yourself. You put your country ahead of your comfort. You've committed your lives to defending our nation's highest ideals. And thanks to you, the march of freedom continues around the world.
It's an honor to be here. It's a huge honor to be the Commander-in-Chief. Thank you for your service to a great country. (Cheers and applause.) END 1:18 p.m. (Local)
Strange, he left out the contractor who built the base; Cheney's old outfit, Brown & Root.
Maybe they will come into the news again when the runway gets built.
No mention of the MPRI or the Caspian Pipeline, either.
Strange, he left out the contractor who built the base; Cheney's old outfit, Brown & Root.
Check out paragraph seven of #3, to wit:
I thank the civilians and contractors who helped build this base. (Cheers.)
Lets hear it for the President of the USA
For those who don't know, Camp Bondsteel is named for Medal of Honor recipient James Leroy Bondsteel, an American hero above and beyond "Rambo" or any other fictional character. We moved to Alaska at the same time, and Jim went to work as a counselor at the V.A. Tragically, he was subsequently killed in a motor vehicle accident. There is a monument to him at the Alaska War Memorial on the Parks Highway. Every time I drive to Fairbanks I get out and visit it (just wish they would plow the Memorial out a little better in the Winter!) You can read his MOH citation at www.hallofheroes.com/moh (Sorry, I can't seem to get the URL posted).
Lets hear it for the President of the USA
Big Bump to the top
and this little tidbit
"There are moderate governments in Bosnia-Herzegovina willing to work as serious partners with the international community in preparing their country for European integration. For the first time in history, all the governments of the region are democratic, committed to cooperating with each other, and predisposed to joining Europe."
Then why is he sending another 1,000 National Guard troops over?
"For the first time in history".
Well, not exactly. Kingdom of Yugoslavia had democratic government from inception until January 6 1929. On tha t date dictatorship was proclaimed to defend the state from communists. Communists openly declared dismemberment of Kingdom as their goal.
Devil is in details, and that's why 1000 NG are heading to Bosnia.
I said that this new Europe must include the Balkans
Heh, I thought the Balkans were part of Europe. In fact the name "Europe" came from the Balkans (Greek mythological figure) if you want to get technical.
Bush was in country for 4 hours. If only our troops were so lucky.
let's hear what for the President??
The overseas use of National Guard troops 'spares' the drain on regular military numbers and funding. The troops are typically rotated after 6 months. That denies an accumulation of knowledge about 'gray' operations - particularly those involving the CIA projects. The National Guard also, typically, has more actual military experience. That's changing with the last of the Viet Nam era retirees.
Any idea where the troops are being drawn from? The military now has a computer program (Boeing product) to select individuals from any unit, so as to assemble a 'unique component,' made up of the best expertise and to keep any sensitive information 'scattered.'
In any case, that's a sign of rotten things to come. They will probably be used to guard Bondsteel & facilitate the CIA operations. If aviation units are called up, that's a real bad sign. Medical units, the same way.
Watching the role of the MPRI is important.
Did you read any of the posts prior to tonycavanagh I was replying to him
yes I did. Now why are you praising what Bush said?
I went over to Bosnia as a member of the Territorial Army are version of your National Guard, I agree though must of us were ex regs.
We took over an old abandon school as sleeping quarters, that was when the civilian skills came in handy we had a carpenter and a electrician with us.
Cheers Tony
The folks I've talked to who have actually been over there advised that the 'atrtocities' were exagerrated to an extreme and were pretty well equal on both sides. Was that your discovery, as well?
Hello SKYDRIFTER
It really depends by what an individual would consider an atrocity.
By the time I had got out there in 1993 the Bosnian conflict had just ended its first phase of what was a very bloody three sided civil war.
The Croats had cleaned out the top end of Bosnia of both Muslim and Serbs, the Serbs had cleaned out the bottom of Muslim and Croats, and some central regions had been cleansed out by Muslims of mainly the Serbs.
The cleansing consisted of Artillery bombardments followed by the use of locally recruited volunteers with a mix of Para military and for the Serbs some regular units.
We are not talking about an official decision to eradicate a race by any of the warring parties, it was more a case of getting rid of all those who were not of your type by any method possible from a designated region.
The lessons I learnt from Bosnia was what an absolute swine the human race is, and how cowardly all the so called decent people are that they will allow the criminals and psychos free reign to carry out acts in there name.
Society was turned on its head no one controlled that war, we had individuals suddenly declaring them self’s local chieftains and declaring whole areas as there fiefdoms, yes there were atrocities yes there were pits with bodies in them I watched one being dug up.
All the criminals had a field day and those who suffered ordinary people, not the Para militaries not the politicians.
Tony
Thanks for the feedback; that fits all other contacts I've had with those who were actually there.
This is quite similar with the U.S. ploys in Viet Nam, always trying to keep their puppet in place amidst the overwhelming political corruption which made communism appear sacred, in contrast.
In Viet Nam, they'd arrange a murderous coup. Now they just put the intended victims up for a sham trial.
Similar to issuing traffic tickets at a car race - to ensure the sheriff's son wins.
NATO is simply a largely unwitting vehicle of the New World Order.
It's sickening.
Similar to issuing traffic tickets at a car race - to ensure the sheriff's son wins.
That's a good one! To make it closer to Balkans - shooting drivers is a way to stop those cars.
Strange, he left out the contractor who built the base; Cheney's old outfit, Brown & Root.
Brown and Root was chosen as the contractor well before GW ever decided to run for President. In fact--the Clinton Administration chose them.
Brown and Root did more than build the base--they do construction, laundry, civil engineering, base support, and they run the Chow Halls--which are the absolute best I have EVER eaten in. Steak, seafood, a pasta bar, and a dessert cart that would rival the 4-Seasons.
Now is alll this expensive? Yup. But remaining there is a separate issue. Suggesting Cheney somehow benefited from a kick-back scheme is wrong.
"Cheney didn't benefit..."
Are you nuts??? Did you check his Halliburton / Brown & Root salary & stock sales???
Are you aware of the role of Brown & Root, Pacific Architects and Engineers (PA&E), Textron/Bell & Caltex in sucking billions of tax dollars out of the Viet Nam War???
This is all New World Order stuff, party lines and Presidential Administrations are coincidental.
Grow up or get honest; whatever it takes.
Are you nuts??? Did you check his Halliburton / Brown & Root salary & stock sales??? Are you aware of the role of Brown & Root, Pacific Architects and Engineers (PA&E), Textron/Bell & Caltex in sucking billions of tax dollars out of the Viet Nam War??? This is all New World Order stuff, party lines and Presidential Administrations are coincidental. Grow up or get honest; whatever it takes.
I Obviously thought I could deal with you on a rational basis. My apologies.
As I informed you--the decision to hire Brown and Root was made during the Clinton Administration. Did Cheney make money off that decision when he was a private Citizen. Yup.
But you make the Cowardly "Guilt By Association" that has NOTHING to do with the Fact --Did I say FACT--that when Camp Bond Steel was constructed---GW was not EVEN a Candidate.
Do you wish to reply logically to this? Or give me some other angry, tinfoil hat response about links to Vietnam, and the like? It was YOU--who made the inferrence here on Free Republic that Cheney somehow got a Kickback--and That is what I refuted. You still have not apologized for it.
And I don't expect one--but if you do, don't give it to me, rather---to VP Cheney and Free Republic.
By your command, Skypilot -
To all rational souls on Free Republic:
Given that Camp Bondsteel was built prior to the current administration, it is academic that Cheney - as Vice-President - couldn't have profited from his elected position. Time works that way - (Did you get that, Skypilot - DUH!)
The term "kickback" was Skypilot's choice of verbiage; not mine - the thought didn't occur to me, for all rational reasons. (Hey Skypilot, have you got a guilty conscience; or just a bad case of the dumb-sh%ts?)
I hope I've adequately clarified that point for all Freepers, wherever dispersed, per Skypilot's commmand.
The lessons I learnt from Bosnia was what an absolute swine the human race is, and how cowardly all the so called decent people are that they will allow the criminals and psychos free reign to carry out acts in there name.
Tony
I could not have phrased it better. There are numerous debates here and always about this troubled part of Europe, which has been experiencing the same trouble for so long.
First of all--who are we defending and who are we prosecuting? Both sides are guilty of terrible acts! I have tried to talk to both sides----and the hatred is beyond comprehension. It boils down to Ethnic, Christian vs. Muslim, and personal Hate.
In the meantime--we build ourselves our Camps.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.
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