In a video message, President Bush thanked America's armed services
personnel and their families. The video is airing on armed services TV
networks around the country and around the world, wherever American
servicemen and women are based, including in the area of hostilities.
"My fellow citizens: When freedom needs defending, America turns
to our military. I want to thank those who wear our uniform. Thank
you for your sacrifice. And as our men and women in uniform do their
job, they count on their families. This time of war has been a time of
hardship for many military families. Some of you have been separated
from your loved ones by long deployments. You're dealing with added
burdens at home, while praying for your husband or wife, or son or
daughter, father or mother far from home. All of America is grateful
for your sacrifice.
"Over the last few weeks, the world has witnessed what you already
know -- that our Armed Forces act with great skill, and great courage,
and great humanity. Images of the Iraq people welcoming our troops in
cities across that country are a testament to the character of our men
and women in uniform.
"Our forces have been given a clear mission -- to end a regime
that threatened its neighbors and the world with weapons of mass
destruction, and to free a people that had suffered far too long.
American and coalition forces are treating innocent civilians with
kindness, delivering urgently needed food and medicine, and acting in
the highest traditions of the United States military. Our whole nation
is proud of the honorable conduct of our military, and I am proud to be
your Commander-in-Chief.
"All who wear this nation's uniform have chosen to serve in
America's defense and in freedom's cause. You and your families
deserve the gratitude of the nation, and the full support of our
government. We will give you the tools and training you need to win
our nation's battles. And we will keep our commitment to improving the
quality of life for our military families.
"This nation has made another pledge: We will never forget the men
and women who have fallen in service to America. We owe them our
freedom. And we pray that their loved ones will receive God's comfort
and God's grace.
"All of you know that great military successes come from years of
hard work, training, and commitment. You stand tall in times of
conflict, and you stand ready in times of peace. For your daily
effort, for your professionalism, and for your patriotism, I thank you
on behalf of the people of the United States.
"May God bless our country and all who defend her."