The White House

Office of the First Lady

For Immediate Release
November 13, 2009

Remarks by the First Lady on Health Insurance Reform and Older Women

East Room

3:12 P.M. EST

MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you, everybody.  Thank you so much.  First of all, forgive me -- I’ve got children, and now I have a cold.  (Laughter.)  It goes along with the territory.

Let me begin by first thanking Tina Tchen, who’s doing an outstanding job as Director of the Office of Public Engagement by opening up this White House to the American people and organizing events like this one today.  She’s just been a terrific asset and a dear friend -- and let’s give her a round of applause.  (Applause.)

And I also want to commend Nancy-Ann for her extraordinary leadership on health care -- health insurance reform.  I know my husband, who is traveling abroad right now, would agree with me when I say that without her, we wouldn’t have come this far, and because of her, we’re going to get the job done.  So we are grateful to you, Nancy-Ann.  (Applause.)

And of course, I want to thank all the women who are here today.  This is a wonderful, lively group -- I heard you all giggling earlier today.  (Laughter.)

But I also want to thank the women who spoke today -- to Kelly and Fran and Judy -- for sharing their stories.  What they’ve been through isn’t easy, and I’m grateful that they have been brave enough and open enough to share their stories with all of us.  It takes a lot of courage.

These stories touch our hearts.  They spark in us just a fundamental sense of unfairness.  But the sad truth is none of these stories are unique.  These kinds of stories are being told in city after city, town after town, all across America.  They’re being told by women who lost their coverage when their husband lost a job, or their husband passed away.  They’re being told by women who aren’t getting regular checkups because it’s simply too expensive.  They’re being told my women living on fixed incomes who can’t afford the prescription drugs that they need.

     All of these stories reflect the fundamental reality -- and that is, women are among those struggling most under the status quo, the way things are.  And women are among those who will benefit most from health insurance reform because the truth is that women, we have a special relationship with our health care system.  In a lot of families that’s true because we are the health care system in so many ways.  (Laughter.)

Eight in 10 mothers say they’re the ones responsible for choosing their children’s doctors, taking them to appointments, and managing the follow-up care.  And over 10 percent of all women are now caring for a sick or elderly relative.

Our entire lives as women, we are asked to bear much of the responsibility for our family’s health and well-being.  And yet, we often face special challenges when it comes to our own health insurance.  Part of it has to do with the fact that women are more likely than men to do part-time work or to work in a small business -- in jobs that are less likely to offer the kind of insurance that you really need.  In fact, over half of all women in this country don’t have the option of getting insurance through the workplace at all.

But even women who do have insurance face inequities under the status quo.  Because women make less than 80 cents for every dollar their male coworkers make, it’s more difficult for them to pay their premiums -- especially when studies show that they’re paying far more than men for the same coverage.

And I don’t think anyone here will be surprised to learn that a recent study found that one-third of all women have either used up savings, taken on debt, or given up basic necessities just to pay their medical bills.  And as many of you know firsthand, these kinds of problems -- the problems of coverage and cost -- only grow worse when you get older, making quality, affordable coverage harder to come by just -- as we’ve seen today and heard today -- just when you need it the most.

In the individual market, people in their early 60s are more than twice as likely to be denied coverage than people in their late 30s.  Older women are more likely than men to face a chronic illness, but they’re less likely to be able to afford the cost of treating that illness.  And in recent years, studies have shown that women over the age of 65 spend about 17 percent of their income on health care.  And that’s just not right.

Our mothers and grandmothers, they have taken care of us all their lives; they’ve made the sacrifices that it takes to get us where we need to be.  And we have an obligation to make sure that we’re taking care of them.  It’s as simple as that.  America has a responsibility to give all seniors the golden years they deserve and the secure, dignified retirement that they worked so hard to achieve.  (Applause.)

And that’s exactly what health insurance reform is going to help us do in this country.

Now, I can tell you -- I can’t tell, actually, what the bill that will ultimately land across my husband’s desk will look like -- none of us can.  But I can tell you just a few important ways that the insurance system will be impacted.

For starters -- and this is very important -- your insurance will not change unless you want it to change.  So if things are great for you, you’re fine.  (Laughter.)  It will, however, become more stable and more secure, no matter what your situation is.  There will be a cap on how much you can be charged in out-of-pocket expenses in a year or in a lifetime.  So there will be a cap.  It will be against the law for insurance companies to deny you coverage for preexisting conditions.  (Applause.)  And that change alone will help us end the discrimination women face in our health care system.  And also, insurance companies will be required to cover, at no extra cost, routine checkups and preventive care.

And I’d like to speak just a moment about what reform will mean for seniors, in particular.

There’s been a lot of misinformation on this topic so I want to be clear -- Nancy-Ann mentioned this:  Not a dime of the Medicare Trust Fund will be used to pay for reform.  Health insurance reform will not endanger Medicare; it will make Medicare more stable and secure.  (Applause.)  By eliminating wasteful subsidies to private insurance and cracking down on fraud and abuse throughout the system, this administration believes that we can bring down premiums for all our seniors and extend the life of the Medicare Trust Fund.

My husband believes that Medicare is a sacred part of America’s social safety net, and it’s a safety net that he will protect -- he will protect with health insurance reform.  And I know that many seniors on Medicare are also concerned about the cost of prescription drugs; we’ve heard about it here.

Right now, millions of seniors face huge out-of-pocket costs when their spending on drugs falls within a coverage gap.  My husband is committed to closing that gap, which will save some seniors, as you’ve heard, thousands of dollars on medications and make prescription drugs more affordable for millions of older Americans.  (Applause.)

So what we’re talking about -- affordable prescription drugs for Americans who need them; Medicare that’s protected today and tomorrow; stability and security for Americans who have insurance; quality, affordable coverage for Americans who don’t.  That’s what reform will mean for older women, for seniors, and for all Americans.

So that’s why I believe in this so strongly.  That’s why I believe in this so strongly.

But in the end, I’m not here just as a First Lady.  That’s not why I’m doing this.  I am here because I’m a daughter.  I’m here because I have an extraordinary mother who is 72 years old -- young.  (Laughter and applause.)  And I know there are countless women in this country who have loved ones who feel the same way about them as I do about my mother.

And when all is said and done, part of why I believe so strongly in reforming our health care system is because of the difference it will make for these women who gave us life -- so simple -- these women who raised us, these women who supported us through the years.  They deserve better than the status quo.  They deserve a health care system that heals them and lifts them up.

And that’s what my husband is committed to doing, to building that kind of system in the weeks and months to come.

So thank you all.  Thank you for sharing your stories.  Thank you all for your hard work and dedication, for listening, for being a part -- and let’s get to work.  Thank you so much.   (Applause.)

END

3:22 P.M. EST

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
November 13, 2009

Remarks by President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama of Japan in Joint Press Conference

Kantei, Tokyo, Japan

8:24 P.M. JST

PRIME MINISTER HATOYAMA:  (As translated.)  President Obama, I would like to welcome you to Japan.  I'd like to express my heartfelt welcome to you.  It is very hard -- despite the tragedy of the mass shooting in your country, that you have taken time out of a busy schedule to come and join us here today.  We're very thankful to you.

And today we have had a 90-minute, very intensive discussion.  I'm very happy to have had this opportunity to hold this discussion.

Well, we have come to call each other Barack and Yukio.  I think I've grown quite accustomed to calling each other by our names.  And we did cover a lot of ground today.  First, for Japan's diplomacy, the U.S.-Japan alliance is the cornerstone. And this is one thing I've stressed.  But as time changes and as the international environment changes, there is a need for us to further develop and deepen the U.S.-Japan alliance to make it even more constructive and future-oriented alliance.  This was what I proposed today.

And the U.S.-Japan alliance -- well, actually it so happens that next year marks the 50th anniversary of the revision of the U.S.-Japan security treaty.  And starting from today we'll be starting a year to start a new process of deliberation.  And I have made this proposal, and President Obama has given his consent and support towards this idea.

Now, the U.S.-Japan alliance, looking at it from the security front, naturally we have to cooperate in proliferation deterrence, on information protection, missile defense, and the use of other states amongst others.  We need to consider these new systems for issuing security.  And this is my thinking.

But the U.S.-Japan alliance is not just focused on security -- for example, disaster prevention, or health, education.  We had many levels -- and also environmental issues, as well.  We need to cooperate in all these areas so as to cooperate in the Asia Pacific and others so that we can further deepen our bilateral alliance.  I believe that we have reached an agreement on these points.

Now, turning our eyes to the global situation, again there are different topics that we've covered.  From our side, I've  talked about Afghanistan and our support to Afghanistan.  On to Afghanistan; we will not be taking part in the refueling, but instead providing civil assistance, and we are planning to mainly provide civil assistance of 5 billion dollars in five years for agriculture, building of infrastructures, schools.  So this is the type of assistance we want to provide.  And also to improve security, we want to support the police force in Afghanistan.  Furthermore, for the former soldiers, we want to provide vocational training.  These are the types of things that we want to conduct.

I have communicated this to the President, and towards this new assistance package, President Obama in principle has stated his gratitude, appreciation for this assistance.  And furthermore, when it comes to assistance to Afghanistan, it's important that we try to directly talk with one another as to the assistance to be provided.

“Now, in the area of climate change, again, we have talked on this subject.  By 2050, we have set out this goal of an 80 percent reduction.  And both Japan and U.S. have agreed on this, and we want to make COP-15 a success, and we agreed to cooperate towards this end.”

And including China and others, there are other issues that need to be resolved.  And therefore we need to collaborate to address these challenges.

Now, in regards to nuclear disarmament, again, we have agreed to cooperate with one another.  Now, in regards to nuclear issues and also climate change, we have issued a joint statement. And I do believe that this is quite innovative in itself, and the fact that we can take up these issues as core issues at the summit meeting is something of vital importance.

Now, on the economic front, well, the economy was not a major issue this time, but again, this might reflect the times in which we're living.  And over dinner, maybe, we hope to be able to discuss the issue of the economy.

Now, in relation to nuclear issues, North Korea, Iran was also discussed from President Obama.  And again, we have agreed to closely cooperate with one another.  And Special Representative Bosworth will be visiting North Korea -- or may be visiting North Korea shortly.  But this is on the premise of the six-party talks.  And I do endorse this thinking and have stated so to the President.

And in regards to Iran, again, we have to support -- we would like to support the approach to Iran.  On the one hand, we want to emphasize our historic relationship, but also, at the same time, I promise to strengthen our alliance vis-à-vis Iran. 

And also, again, in Asia, President Obama has stated that we have some -- we do have a vital role to play, especially in East Asia.  I have set out the concept of East Asian community, and this is because I believe that there is this alliance as the cornerstone on which we can rely.

And in Asia, the fact that the U.S. presence increases is something that has great extension towards at various levels in Asia and East Asia, and Asia on the whole.  Both Japan and the United States should deepen, and as a result, in East Asia we hope to bring about peace, stability, and economic prosperity in this region.  This is something that we have pledged.

I don't want to take up all the time myself, and therefore I'd like to conclude.  But I do think that this summit meeting was extremely meaningful.  And on this note, I'd like to once again say that I am very grateful to Barack, President Obama, to take time to join us here at Japan.  And also, I'm thankful that he's chosen Japan as his first leg to his visit to Asia.  And as Prime Minister, representing the Japanese people, I'd like to express my gratitude.  Thank you.

And next, President Obama, please.

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, good evening.  It is a great honor to be making my first trip to Japan as President of the United States.  I have fond memories of visiting Japan in my youth.  I've been looking forward to this trip for some time.  I'm only sorry that Michelle and the girls could not join us.  The girls have been studying Japan in school, and so they have a great interest in Japanese culture.  And hopefully I'll be able to bring them next time.

I want to thank the warm welcome that Prime Minister Hatoyama and the Japanese people have extended.  I appreciate the graciousness with which you understood the delay that took place as a consequence of the tragedy at Fort Hood, Texas.

Japan is my first stop as President in Asia.  I began my trip here in Tokyo because the alliance between the United States and Japan is a foundation for security and prosperity not just for our two countries but for the Asia Pacific region.  In a few months we'll be marking the 50th anniversary of our alliance, which is founded on shared values and shared interests that has served our people so well and has provided peace and security for the region in an unprecedented way.

That anniversary, as Prime Minister Hatoyama pointed out, represents an important opportunity to step back and reflect on what we've achieved, celebrate our friendship, but also find ways to renew this alliance and refresh it for the 21st century.  Both Yukio and I were elected on the promise of change, but there should be no doubt, as we move our nations in a new direction, our alliance will endure and our efforts will be focused on revitalizing that friendship so that it's even stronger and more successful in meeting the challenges of the 21st century.  It's essential for the United States, it's essential for Japan, and it's essential for the Asia Pacific region.

Throughout my trip and throughout my presidency, I intend to make clear that the United States is a Pacific nation, and we will be deepening our engagement in this part of the world.  As I said to Prime Minister Hatoyama, the United States will strengthen our alliances, build new partnerships, and we will be part of multilateral efforts and regional institutions that advance regional security and prosperity.

We have to understand that the future of the United States and Asia is inextricably linked.  The issues that matter most to our people -- issues of economic growth and job creation, non-proliferation, clean energy -- these are all issues that have to be part of a joint agenda.  And we had very productive discussions about these issues this evening.

It's true that because of the strength of our economic ties, that was not the first item on our agenda, but we are fortunately going to have the opportunity to spend a lot of time discussing that in Singapore in the coming days.  As the world's two leading economies, we have spent a lot of time working together in the G20 to help bring the world back from the brink of financial crisis, and we're going to continue to work to strengthen our efforts so that we can expand job growth in the future.  And we will be discussing with our APEC partners how to rebalance our deep economic cooperation with this region to strengthen our recovery.

The Prime Minister and I discussed our cooperation on Afghanistan and Pakistan.  And I did thank the people of Japan and the Prime Minister for the powerful commitment of a $5 billion over the next five years to support our shared civilian efforts in Afghanistan, as well as the commitment of a billion dollars to Pakistan.

This underscores Japan's prominent role within a broad international coalition that is advancing the cause of stability and opportunity in Afghanistan and Pakistan.  And I shared with the Prime Minister our efforts in refining our approach to make it more successful in the coming year.

We discussed our shared commitment to stopping the spread of nuclear weapons and ultimately seeking a world without them.  Since I laid out a comprehensive agenda in Prague to pursue these goals Japan has been an outstanding partner in those efforts.  And together we passed a historic resolution in the Security Council last September.  We are building a new international consensus to secure loose nuclear materials and strengthen the nonproliferation regime.

And to that end, we discussed both North Korea and the situation in Iran, recognizing that it's absolutely vital that both countries meet their international obligations.  If they do, then they can open the door to a better future.  If not, we will remain united in implementing U.N. resolutions that are in place and continuing to work in an international context to move towards an agenda of nonproliferation.

Finally, we discussed our partnership on energy issues and climate change.  The United States and Japan share a commitment to developing the clean energy of the future and we're focused on combating the threat of climate change.  This is an important priority for us; I know it's an important priority for the people of Japan.  And we discussed how we can work together to pave the way for a successful outcome in Copenhagen next month.

So I believe that we are off to a very successful start.  I'm looking forward to continuing the conversation during dinner, as well as as we both travel to Singapore.  And I am confident that we will continue to strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance so that it serves future generations.

Thank you very much.

PRIME MINISTER HATOYAMA:  Thank you very much.  Now I'd like to proceed to questions.  I will appoint the person, and once you are appointed, please come to the microphone, state your name and affiliation, and also to whom -- please state to whom you want to pose your question. 

On behalf of the Japanese press, please.

Q Fuji Television.  Matsuyama is my name.  I'd like to ask both leaders -- first to Prime Minister Hatoyama.  You have stated that you would like to see Japan enjoy a more equal relationship with the United States in talks about Afghanistan and also the ending of the refueling operations and global warming and nuclear disarmament.  Do you think that you're able to talk as equal partners and gain understanding on this point, especially on the Futenma relocation?  There is the observation that this will be a difficult issue to resolve, but how did you explain about how to resolve the timeline for resolving this issue?

And to President Obama, you are a proponent of a nuclear-free world, and you've stated, first of all, you would like to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki while in office.  Do you have this desire?  And what is your understanding of the historical meaning of the A-bombing in Hiroshima and Nagasaki?  Do you think that it was the right decision? 

And also considering the North Korean situation, how do you think the U.S.-Japan alliance should be strengthened, and how should both countries cooperate in the field of nuclear disarmament?

And also on the Futenma relocation issue, by when do you think the issue needs to be resolved?  And should it be that Japan carry over the discussion -- decision to next year, or decide on something outside of what is being discussed?  How would you respond?

PRIME MINISTER HATOYAMA:  Let me start.  I was asked a great deal of questions to -- especially President Obama, but I'd like to talk about the equal relationship.  But before I state so, the President himself has said naturally that we are equal partners and should be equal partners.  So in this context we have talked about the assistance to Afghanistan, climate change, and furthermore, nuclear abolishment.  And I think you can ask him, but I do believe that he has regarded us, Japan, as an equal partner.  I have raised a number of issues on my side, and I think this is proof of our equal partnership.

On the issue of the relocation of the Futenma air station, in regards to this issue, well, to give you the conclusion, there is the high-level working group -- we've set up this group so as to be able to resolve the issue as early as possible.  And we stated this and my commitment was also expressed during our talks.

But before that, I have explained why we have this discussion, and under the previous government, the U.S.-Japan agreement needs to be regarded seriously.  During the election campaign, especially to the Okinawans, I've stated that we would consider relocation outside of Okinawa and outside of the country.  It is a fact that we did campaign on this issue, and the Okinawans do have high expectations.

It will be a very difficult issue for sure, but as time goes by, I think it will become even more difficult to resolve the issue.  Especially the residents in the Futenma district will find it even more difficult to resolve the issue as time goes by.

So we do understand we need to resolve the issue as soon as possible, and we'll make every effort to resolve the issue as quickly as possible within the working group.

And we hope that this will lead the way to strengthening our alliance, and I sincerely hope that such discussions will take place within the working group.  And this is something I have communicated to the President.

President, please.

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, first of all, I am impressed that the Japanese journalists use the same strategy as American journalists -- (laughter) -- in asking multiple questions.

Let me, first of all, insist that the United States and Japan are equal partners.  We have been and we will continue to be.  Each country brings specific assets and strengths to the relationship, but we proceed based on mutual interest and mutual respect, and that will continue.

That's reflected in the Japan-U.S. alliance.  It will be reflected in the resolution of the base realignment issues related to Futenma.  As the Prime Minister indicated, we discussed this.  The United States and Japan have set up a high-level working group that will focus on implementation of the agreement that our two governments reached with respect to the restructuring of U.S. forces in Okinawa, and we hope to complete this work expeditiously.

Our goal remains the same, and that's to provide for the defense of Japan with minimal intrusion on the lives of the people who share this space.  And I have to say that I am extraordinarily proud and grateful for the men and women in uniform from the United States who help us to honor our obligations to the alliance and our treaties.

With respect to nuclear weapons and the issues of non-proliferation, this is an area where Prime Minister Hatoyama and I have discussed repeatedly in our meetings.  We share, I think, a vision of a world without nuclear weapons.  We recognize, though, that this is a distant goal, and we have to take specific steps in the interim to meet this goal.  It will take time.  It will not be reached probably even in our own lifetimes.  But in seeking this goal we can stop the spread of nuclear weapons; we can secure loose nuclear weapons; we can strengthen the non-proliferation regime.

 As long as nuclear weapons exist, we will retain our deterrent for our people and our allies, but we are already taking steps to bring down our nuclear stockpiles and -- in cooperation with the Russian government -- and we want to continue to work on the non-proliferation issues.

Now, obviously Japan has unique perspective on the issue of nuclear weapons as a consequence of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.  And that I'm sure helps to motivate the Prime Minister's deep interest in this issue.  I certainly would be honored, it would be meaningful for me to visit those two cities in the future.  I don't have immediate travel plans, but it's something that would be meaningful to me.

You had one more question, and I'm not sure I remember it.  Was it North Korea?

Q Whether or not you believe that the U.S. dropped a nuclear weapon on Hiroshima and Nagasaki -- it was right?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  No, there were three sets of questions, right?  You asked about North Korea?     

Q I have North Korea as well, yes.

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Yes.  With respect to North Korea, we had a extensive discussion about how we should proceed with Pyongyang.  Obviously we were disturbed by the testing that took place, some of the belligerent actions that had taken place in an earlier period of this year.  We have continued to say that our goal is a non-nuclear Korean Peninsula.  That's vital for the security of East Asia.

And the United States and Japan, with the other members of the six-party talks, will continue to work to show North Korea that there is a pathway, a door, for them to rejoin the international community that would serve their people well and I believe enhance their security over the long term.  They have to walk through that door.  In the meantime, we will continue to implement the sanctions that have already been put in place, and we will continue to coordinate closely with Japan and the other six-party members in helping to shape a strategy that meets our security needs and convinces Pyongyang to move in a better direction.

MR. GIBBS:  Jennifer Loven with AP -- questions fewer in number.  (Laughter.)

Q       Thank you, Mr. President, Mr. Prime Minister.  President Obama, how can you assure the American people that a trial of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, now that your administration has now decided will take place in a civilian court in New York, will be safe and secure, but also not result in an innocent verdict for him?

And on Afghanistan, if I might, can you explain to people watching and criticizing your deliberations what piece of information you're still lacking to make that call?

And if I could add one to the Prime Minister, please.  Can you explain your country decided not to continue refueling ships going to Afghanistan?

PRIME MINISTER HATOYAMA:  Mr. President?

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  With respect to Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, I believe that the Attorney General is going to be making an announcement this morning in the United States, this evening here.  I don't want to preempt his news conference.  This is a prosecutorial decision as well as a national security decision.

Here's the thing that I will say.  I am absolutely convinced that Khalid Sheikh Mohammed will be subject to the most exacting demands of justice.  The American people will insist on it and my administration will insist on it.  And I'm sure we'll have additional things to say after the Attorney General's press conference.

With respect to Afghanistan, Jennifer, I don't think this is a matter of some datum of information that I'm waiting on.  It's a matter of making certain that when I send young men and women into war, and I devote billions of dollars of U.S. taxpayer money, that it's making us safer, and that the strategies that are placed not just on the military side but also on the civilian side are coordinated and effective in our primary goal, which is to make sure that the United States is not subject to attack and its allies are not subject to attack by terrorist networks, and that there is a stability in the region that helps to facilitate that larger goal.

And I recognize that there have been critics of the process. They tend not to be folks who I think are directly involved in what's happening in Afghanistan.  Those who are recognize the gravity of the situation and recognize the importance of us getting this right. 

And the decision will be made soon.  It will be one that is fully transparent so that the American people understand exactly what we're doing and why we're doing it and what it will entail. It will also I think send a clear message that our goal here ultimately has to be for the Afghan people to be able to be in a position to provide their own security, and that the United States cannot be engaged in an open-ended commitment.

So I am very pleased with how the process has proceeded.  And those who participated I think would acknowledge that it has been not a academic exercise, but a necessary process in order to make sure that we're making the best possible decisions.

PRIME MINISTER HATOYAMA:  I thank you for keeping it to just one question, having come all the way to Japan.  Now, your question was about why we ended the refueling in the Indian Ocean.  And we believe that Japan's assistance to Afghanistan will -- in the larger context, terms should be considered.  And as for antiterrorism, in order to eradicate terrorism, there is a need to take certain measures, but we have to consider what Japan should be doing in terms of antiterrorism.  I think that it's important that we extend civilian support so as to eliminate terrorism from its roots.  And I do believe that this is appropriate for Japan, and this is the first point that I want to communicate to you.

And also, the refueling support, I've looked at the activities.  Compared to the beginning recently, the refueling support is declining.  Last month, in one month, there was only one -- refueling for one ship.  And we wonder how much effect we are bringing about.  And so I think that we have to consider the meaning of this logistic support, and we've come to think that there is another type of assistance that is more appropriate for Japan.

We understand that the Afghans are suffering from poverty and we have to save them from poverty.  Also security is something of a challenge, and we need to take new activities.  And also, to the former soldiers, we have to provide vocational training so that they do not have to rely on their guns; they can lay down their guns and seek a more fulfilling life.

And I believe that for Japan it is more appropriate, desirable, that we provide such civilian assistance.  And as a result, conclusion, we have decided that instead of providing refueling, we provide an alternative package.

MODERATOR:  Thank you very much.  With this, we would like to conclude the joint news conference.  And reporters please stay in your seats while the leaders leave the room.  We thank you for your cooperation.
       
END                                                                     
9:07 P.M. JST

 

** This transcript has been corrected.

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
November 12, 2009

Remarks by the President to Service Members, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Anchorage, Alaska

Elmendorf Air Force Base, Anchorage, Alaska

5:39 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Elmendorf!  (Applause.)  Thank you.  Thank you, everybody.  Thank you.  Please -- thank you so much.  Anybody who has a seat, go ahead and take a seat.

I want to thank General Troy for the introduction and for his extraordinary service; to Colonel Mark Camerer and your outstanding local leaders for welcoming me here today.  And I want to give a shout-out to the United States Air Force Band of the Pacific.  (Applause.)

I realize that your Commander, General Atkins, couldn’t be here.  I’m told that he got called down to Hawaii -- shaka brah, what's up?  (Laughter.)  I grew up there, so I hope that he's getting as warm a welcome as I'm getting here.

I want to thank your senior enlisted leaders:  Command Chief Master Sergeant Robert Moore, Chief Master Sergeant Tom Baker and Command Sergeant Major David Turnbull.  Give them a big round of applause.  (Applause.)  And please give some applause to all the airmen and soldiers up here.  They look terrific.  (Applause.)

It is wonderful to be here at one of America’s great air bases.  I have to tell you I'm also really excited because I had up until today visited 49 states.  So this is officially my 50th state.  (Applause.)

AUDIENCE MEMBER:  Love you --

THE PRESIDENT:  I love you back.  (Applause.)  But we also have a lot of folks from Fort Richardson.  (Applause.)  We've got folks from all across Alaskan Command -- Air Force, Army, Navy, Coast Guard, United States Marines; Active, Guard and Reserve.  (Applause.)  We have our allies and friends from the Canadian armed forces.  (Applause.)

I see -- I see many spouses here today.  (Applause.)  And I want you to know you are the backbone of our military families and we honor your service.  (Applause.)  And I'm thrilled to see the kids who are here today -- hey, guys, thank you.  (Applause.)   I know you’re proud of your mom and dad, but we’re all proud of you, too.

You know, we’re here in "America’s Last Frontier."  And most of you are far from home.  And I know your service is made a little easier by your unbelievable neighbors.  So we want to thank your local and state leaders, Lieutenant Governor Craig Campbell, all the people of Anchorage and Alaska for their incredible support.

And we’re also joined today by a leader who is fighting for Alaska in Washington, and for you and all our men and women in uniform as a member of the Armed Services Committee and the Veterans Affairs Committee -- Mark Begich is here, Senator Mark Begich is in the house.  Stand up, Mark, so everybody can see you.  (Applause.)

Today, I’m on my way to Asia -- my first visit there as President.  The crews are out there refueling Air Force One.  But I didn’t want to just pass through.  Because this is also, as I said, my first visit to Alaska and my first visit to Elmendorf.  And I couldn’t come here without taking this opportunity to deliver a simple message -- a message of thanks to you and your families.

Now, these have been days of tribute.  Two days ago, we gathered at Fort Hood and we honored 13 Americans taken from us:  soldiers and caregivers; mothers and fathers; husbands and wives; sons and daughters, brothers and sisters.  We grieved with families who have endured unimaginable loss.  And we found inspiration in the wounded, their spirits unbowed, and in those who braved the bullets so that others might live.

Yesterday, we gathered at Arlington National Cemetery to salute proud veterans who served on foreign fields long ago and wounded warriors from today.  And as citizens of a grateful nation, we are humbled by such service.

Today, we gather here, at Elmendorf.  And we see the same spirit.  It’s the spirit that I saw in the outstanding airmen and soldiers I met with a few moments ago.  It’s the spirit that I see in all of you.

It’s your sense of service -- answering your country’s call, volunteering in a time of war knowing that you could be sent into harm’s way.  That's a sense of responsibility on your part -- the belief that the blessings we cherish as Americans are not gifts that we take for granted, they are freedoms that are earned.  And it’s your sense of unity -- coming from every corner of the country, from every color and every creed and every faith and every station -- to take care of each other, and to serve together, and to succeed together, as Americans.  (Applause.)

So I’m here to say to all of you, all of you who serve, all the families who are here:  Of all the privileges I have as President, I have no greater honor than serving as your Commander-in-Chief.  (Applause.)  We have the finest fighting force the world has ever known.  And it’s because of you -- because we've got the finest personnel in the world.  That's our most precious resource.

By being here all of you are joining a long line of service at Elmendorf -- from the liberation of Pacific islands during World War II through a long Cold War.  You embody that creed: "faithful to a proud heritage, a tradition of honor, and a legacy of valor."  And you uphold that legacy every day.

Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, you keep America’s skies safe.  So we salute the 3rd Wing.  And the 11th Air Force.  (Applause.)

You project power across the Pacific, returning just recently from Guam:  the 90th Fighter Squadron -- the "Dicemen."  (Applause.)  And the 525th Fighter Squadron -- the “Bulldogs.”  (Applause.)  And all the maintenance troops who support them.  Welcome home.  (Applause.)

And when disaster strikes -- whether a typhoon in the Philippines or an earthquake in Samoa -- you’re there, delivering the relief that saves lives.  So thank you "Firebirds."  (Applause.)

Today, we also send our thoughts and prayers to all those who at this very moment are serving on the front lines.  (Applause.)  There are airmen from Elmendorf in every corner of the world.  They’re soldiers from Fort Richardson:  military police in Iraq -- (applause) -- the 4th Brigade Combat Team in Afghanistan.  (Applause.)

Fort Rich paratroopers are no strangers to tough assignments.  (Applause.)  A few years back, you all spent 14 months in Iraq.  Now, they’re working to bring stability and security to eastern Afghanistan -- building roads and medical clinics, renovating schools, protecting the Afghan people and giving them a chance at a better future.  They are doing a terrific job and we salute them.

But with services comes sacrifice.  All of you know this.  You’ve made the most profound commitment a person can make.  You’ve pledged to dedicate your life to your country.  And perhaps give your life for it.  Here at Elmendorf and Fort Richardson, some have.

They’re airmen like Staff Sergeant Timothy Bowles, who -- when a comrade fell sick -- volunteered to take his place on the patrol in Afghanistan that would end up taking his life.

They're soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, like the husband and father who gave his life in Afghanistan last week -- Specialist Julian Berisford.

And citizens of this state, like Alaska Native Corporal Gregory Fleury.  Raised in Anchorage, he joined the Marines and served two tours in Iraq.  He loved the Corps, he loved Alaska, so much so that he carried the state flag with him everywhere.  It was with him last month when he was killed in those helicopter crashes in Afghanistan.

A little while ago, I had the honor of meeting Greg’s family, Donna and Christopher, and his grandfather Albert.  And I expressed the gratitude of our nation, and we thank them for being with us here today.  Donna, Albert, please stand.  (Applause.)

There are no words that are strong enough and no tribute worthy enough to match the magnitude of such service.  But to you and all who serve, I say this:  The American people thank you.  We honor you.  And just as you have fulfilled your responsibilities to your nation, your nation will fulfill its responsibilities to you.

So as your Commander-in-Chief, here’s the commitment I make to you.  We’ll make sure you can meet the missions we ask of you.  That’s why we’re increasing the defense budget, including spending on the Air Force and the Army.  (Applause.)  We’ll make sure we have the right force structure.  So we’ve halted reductions in the Air Force, increased the size of the Army ahead of schedule and also approved a temporary increase in the Army.

We’ll spend our defense dollars wisely.  So we’re cutting tens of billions of dollars in waste and projects that even the Pentagon says it doesn’t need -- money that's better spent on taking care of you and your families and building the 21st century military that we do need.

I want you guys to understand I will never hesitate to use force to protect the American people or our vital interests.  (Applause.)  But I also make you this promise:  I will not risk your lives unless it is necessary to America's vital interest.  (Applause.)

And if it is necessary, the United States of America will have your back.  We will give you the strategy and the clear mission you deserve.  We will give you the equipment and support that you need to get the job done.  And that includes public support back home.  That is a promise that I make to you.  (Applause.)

And as you meet your missions around the world, we will take care of your families here at home.  That’s why the First Lady, Michelle, has been visiting bases across the country -- go Michelle.  (Laughter and applause.)  Your family is a priority for our family.  So we’re increasing pay.  We’re increasing child care.  We’re increasing support to help spouses and families deal with the stress and separation of war.  (Applause.)

And finally, we pledge to be there when you come home.  We’re improving care for our wounded warriors, especially those with PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injuries.  I want to salute the outstanding work you do at the hospital here on base, including your new TBI clinic.  Thank you for giving our wounded warriors the world-class care they deserve.  (Applause.)

We’re funding the Post-9/11 GI Bill -- (applause) -- because we want to give -- we want to give your families the chance to pursue your dreams.  And we’re making the biggest commitment to our veterans -- the largest percentage increase in the VA budget in more than 30 years.  (Applause.)

So these are the commitments I'm making to you.  Because you’ve always taken care of America, and America must has to take care of you back.  America’s obligation to our military -- as we saw this week -- is a sacred trust that we are honor-bound to uphold.

It’s the sacred trust that brought a nation together this week around 13 battlefield crosses.  It’s the sacred trust that leads us to pause, on that November day, to give thanks for all those who have served before us.  It’s the sacred trust that brings me here -- to say thank you for serving today, thank you to you and your families for all you do to protect this country we love.

God bless you.  And God bless the United States of America.  Thank you, everybody.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

END                                                                   
5:53 P.M. EST
 
 

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
November 12, 2009

Remarks by the President on the Economy

Diplomatic Reception Room

9:43 A.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT:  Good morning, everybody.  Before departing for Asia this morning, I’d like to make a brief statement about the economy.

Over the past 10 months, we’ve taken a number of bold steps to break the back of this recession.  We’ve worked to stabilize the financial system, revive lending to small businesses and families, and prevent responsible homeowners from losing their homes.  And through the Recovery Act, we’ve cut taxes for middle class families, extended and increased unemployment insurance, and created and saved more than a million jobs.

As a result, the economy is now growing again for the first time in more than a year -- and faster than at any time in the past two years.  But even though we’ve slowed the loss of jobs -- and today’s report on the continued decline in unemployment claims is a hopeful sign -- the economic growth that we’ve seen has not yet led to the job growth that we desperately need.  As I’ve said from the start of this crisis, hiring often takes time to catch up to economic growth.  And given the magnitude of the economic turmoil that we’ve experienced, employers are reluctant to hire.

Small businesses and large firms are demanding more of their employees, their increasing their hours, and adding temporary workers -- but these companies have not yet been willing to take the steps necessary to hire again.  Meanwhile, millions of Americans -- our friends, our neighbors, our family members -- are desperately searching for jobs.  This is one of the great challenges that remains in our economy -- a challenge that my administration is absolutely determined to meet.

We all know that there are limits to what government can and should do, even during such difficult times.  But we have an obligation to consider every additional, responsible step that we can [take] to encourage and accelerate job creation in this country.  And that’s why, in December, we’ll be holding a forum at the White House on jobs and economic growth.  We’ll gather CEOs and small business owners, economists and financial experts, as well as representatives from labor unions and nonprofit groups, to talk about how we can work together to create jobs and get this economy moving again.

It's important that we don't make any ill-considered decisions -- even with the best intentions -- particularly at a time when our resources are so limited.  But it's just as important that we are open to any demonstrably good idea to supplement the steps we’ve already taken to put America back to work.  That’s what this forum is about.

In the coming days, I’ll also be meeting with leaders abroad to discuss a strategy for growth that is both balanced and broadly shared.  It's a strategy in which Asian and Pacific markets are open to our exports -- and one in which prosperity around the world is no longer as dependent on American consumption and borrowing, but rather more on American innovation and products.

It's through these steps with our partners, in addition to the work we're doing here at home, that we will not only revive our economy in the short term, but rebuild it stronger in the long term.  That's been the focus of our efforts these past 10 months -- it will continue to be our focus in the months ahead.

Thanks very much, everybody.

END                                                                                             
9:46 A.M. EST
 
 

The White House

Office of the First Lady

For Immediate Release
November 11, 2009

Remarks by the First Lady at Mission Serve Event

George Washington University
Washington, D.C.

2:36 P.M. EST

MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you so much.  I am thrilled to be here -- thrilled and honored.  We've had a wonderful day today, as Jill said, and this just tops it off.

First let me begin by thanking Jill for her kind introduction.  As a Blue Star Mom, as she said, whose son recently returned from Iraq, Jill has brought her personal experience to our work in the White House and it has been invaluable.  She's working tirelessly to highlight the extraordinary service of our National Guard and Reserve members and their families.

She is a wonderful partner and a dear friend to me and my husband and I lover her dearly.  Please, let's give Jill another round of applause.  (Applause.)

It is such a privilege to be here with all of you today, on this Veterans Day, to help launch Service Nation's new civilian-military initiative, Mission Serve.

I want to thank Senator Merkley, who's here, and Major General Steven Roman Abt for joining us today.  And I'd also like to recognize Colonel Rob Gordon, Mission Serve's Chair; as well as Ross Cohen, the Director for Civilian-Military Partnerships for Service Nation; and all of the people and partners who have worked so hard to create this effort.  You all have done just a fabulous job.

And I also want to thank GW.  (Applause.)  Go GW!  (Applause.)  And your president, Steve Knapp, for hosting us today.  (Applause.)

As some of you know, a couple of months ago I issued a little challenge to this university:  that if students, faculty and staff here did 100,000 hours of community service -- that I'd do what?

AUDIENCE:  Speak at commencement!

MRS. OBAMA:  Speak at commencement.  Well, in just seven weeks -- just seen weeks -- you all have done more than 19,000 hours of service.  That is pretty amazing.  That's wonderful.  (Applause.)  So if you all keep it up, maybe I'll see you here in May, right?  (Laughter.)

Finally, I feel particularly privileged to share the stage today with Mrs. Alma Powell, who knows -- she knows a thing or two about service and sacrifice.  (Applause.)  She's devoted her life to giving our young people every opportunity to fulfill their dreams.  And she is a wonderful role model to me, just a tremendous asset to this country -- another round of applause for Mrs. Alma Powell.  (Applause.)

One of the greatest privileges that I have as First Lady is the chance to meet with veterans, and to meet with service members, and their families all across America.  And I have to tell you, I always come away from every single visit with this sense of pride, and gratitude -- but also with a sense of awe.  True awe.

I'm in awe of sacrifices they make -- if you think about it, a tiny fraction of our population bearing the burden of eight years of war, serving tour after tour of duty, missing out on birthdays and anniversaries and those precious moments with the people that they love most.

I'm in awe of the men and women that I meet who have been wounded -- and some very seriously -- who will tell you that all they think about is not their injuries but about the folks that they left behind; and all they want to do is to be back in their unit, serving this country again.  I'm in awe.

And I'm in awe of the military families that I meet:  spouses who play the role of both parents, trying to juggle getting to baseball games and ballet recitals, doing it all; grandparents who step in to care for the children when a single mom or dad in uniform is away; people who find the strength to carry on after those they love most have made the ultimate sacrifice.

And we witnessed their courage and grace this past week in the aftermath of the unthinkable tragedy at Fort Hood.  And we hold those who lost their lives and those who love them in our thoughts and prayers today.  All of these men and women, they joined our armed forces because they love this country so much that they're willing to give everything they have to protect it.
And that commitment, it doesn't just disappear when they return to civilian life.

See, that's the beauty of it -- it doesn't go away.  For many of these folks, service is the air they breathe.  It's the reason they were put here on this Earth.  And they don't just want to serve for a certain number of years of deployment -- they want to make their entire life a tour of duty.

And whether it's technical skills in engineering, logistics, public safety; whether it's leadership skills like team building and performing under intense pressure -- what they've learned standing watch over the homeland and fighting wars abroad is precisely what we need to meet our biggest challenges here at home.

And that's whether it's turning around a failing school or managing a big-city homeless shelter -- we need that energy; whether it's running a rural health clinic or rescuing a community struck by a natural disaster -- our veterans have what it takes for success.

So they have the skills to serve, and they have the will to serve -- and it's up to us to give them the opportunity to serve.  And that's why the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act that my husband signed into law establishes a Veterans Corps.  That's why our United We Serve summer of service program engaged veterans groups all across America, deploying them to serve their communities right here at home.

And that's why we're so thrilled about the endeavor you all are launching here today.  Through the partnerships in this new coalition, wounded warriors are mentoring young people and combating gang violence.  Through this initiative veterans are building homes in New Orleans, and working to reduce the dropout rate in Boston and Philadelphia, and helping their fellow veterans reintegrate into communities all across America.

And ordinary citizens are mobilizing to give something back to our men and women in uniform who've given us so much -- like offering free summer camps for military kids; or working to expand economic opportunity for military families; providing job training, educational support and mental health services for veterans.

It's this kind of work this administration has been doing since my husband took office.  His budget called for the largest percentage increase in the Veterans Administration budget in 30 years, and that includes pay raises to our troops; it includes improvements in health care, education and housing; and career development for military spouses.  (Applause.)

This administration is providing more on-base childcare and expanding the Family and Medical Leave Act to help military families and wounded veterans keep their jobs and fulfill their responsibilities as parents, spouses and caregivers.

And just this week, my husband signed an executive order that will dramatically step up our efforts to hire veterans throughout our federal government.

But we all know that in the end, supporting our military and military families requires more than just good government -- I say this all the time -- it also requires an active citizenship.  Because when our troops go off to war, they are protecting every single one of us.  The freedoms they fight for are ones that every single one of us enjoys.

So it's up to every single one of us to honor their service with service of our own.  It's up to us to recognize our veterans not just for all they've done for this country -- but for all they will continue to do for this country.  That's what Mission Serve is all about.

It's about honoring the dedication that led a young man named Kent Park to West Point and then ultimately to Iraq.  And it motivated him to continue his service as a mentor to young people when he returned back home.  And as Kent put it, he said,
"You have to be an active participant by giving back to your community and doing your part," he said, "…that's what being a citizen means.  It's a lifetime of steady dedication to service."

It's about honoring the courage that led Amber Bahr, a soldier whom I met at Fort Hood yesterday -- see, Amber rushed to the aid of others during the attack last week -- as she helped out a number of her fellow soldiers, not even realizing she had been shot in the back herself.  She later explained, this is her quote, "…my own personal safety wasn't really what mattered to me…making sure that my battle buddies were safe," she said, "that was my number one priority."

And it's about honoring the service and sacrifice of our military families, too.  It's about honoring people like Daniel DeCrow, who I met at Fort Hood.  He lost his son Justin.  He said the last time he spoke to Justin, he told him how proud he was.  And he later said, "That's what I said to him every time I saw him -- that I loved him and I was proud of what he was doing."  He said, "I can carry that around in my heart."

So may each and every one of us carry that same pride, that same gratitude, that same love in our hearts -- not just on this day, but every single day.

Thank you so much and God bless you all.  (Applause.)

END                             
2:48 P.M. EST
                                        
 

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
November 11, 2009

Remarks by the President on Veterans Day at Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery

 11:33 A.M. EST
 

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you so much.  Thank you.  Please, be seated.

Thank you, Secretary Shinseki, for the generous introduction -- more importantly, the extraordinary bravery in service to our country, both on and off the battlefield.  I want to thank our outstanding Vice President, Joe Biden, and his wonderful wife, Dr. Jill Biden, for being here today.  We want to thank the Bidens for their son, Beau's, service as well; we're glad he just got back from Iraq.

We want to say a special word of thanks to Brigadier General Karl Horst, who's the Commander of the Military District of Washington, for being here, and for your lifetime of distinguished service to our nation.  To Gene Crayton, president of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, thank you for being here.  And to all the veterans’ service organizations for the extraordinary work, day in, day out on behalf of our nation's heroes.

To the members of our armed forces and the veterans who are here today:  I am deeply honored and humbled to spend Veterans Day with you in this sacred place where generations of heroes have come to rest -- and generations of Americans have come to show their gratitude.

There are many honors and responsibilities that come with this job.  But none is more profound than serving as Commander-in-Chief.  Yesterday, I visited the troops at Fort Hood.  We gathered in remembrance of those we recently lost.  We paid tribute to the lives they led.  And there was something that I saw in them; something that I see in the eyes of every soldier and sailor, airman, Marine and Coast Guardsman that I have had the privilege to meet in this country and around the world -- and that thing is determination.

In this time of war, we gather here mindful that the generation serving today already deserves a place alongside previous generations for the courage they have shown and the sacrifices that they have made.  In an era where so many acted only in pursuit of narrow self-interest, they've chosen the opposite.  They chose to serve the cause that is greater than self; many even after they knew they'd be sent into harm's way.  And for the better part of a decade, they have endured tour after tour in distant and difficult places; they have protected us from danger; and they have given others the opportunity for a better life.

So to all of them -- to our veterans, to the fallen, and to their families -- there is no tribute, no commemoration, no praise that can truly match the magnitude of your service and your sacrifice.

This is a place where it is impossible not to be moved by that sacrifice.  But even as we gather here this morning, people are gathering all across America, not only to express thanks of a grateful nation, but to tell stories that demand to be told.  They're stories of wars whose names have come to define eras; battles that echo throughout history.  They're stories of patriots who sacrificed in pursuit of a more perfect union:  of a grandfather who marched across Europe; of a friend who fought in Vietnam; of a sister who served in Iraq.  They're the stories of generations of Americans who left home barely more than boys and girls, became men and women, and returned home heroes.

And when these Americans who had dedicated their lives to defending this country came home, many settled on a life of service, choosing to make their entire lives a tour of duty.  Many chose to live a quiet life, trading one uniform and set of responsibilities for another -- doctor, engineer, teacher, mom, dad.  They bought homes, raised families, built businesses.  They built the greatest middle class that the world has ever known.  Some put away their medals, stayed humble about their service, and moved on.  Some, carrying shrapnel and scars, found that they couldn't.

We call this a holiday.  But for many veterans, it's another day of memories that drive them to live their lives each day as best as they possibly can.  For our troops, it is another day in harm's way.  For their families, it is another day to feel the absence of a loved one, and the concern for their safety.  For our wounded warriors, it is another day of slow and arduous recovery.  And in this national cemetery, it is another day when grief remains fresh.  So while it is important and proper that we mark this day, it is far more important we spend all our days determined to keep the promises that we've made to all who answer this country's call.

Carved into the marble behind me are the words of our first Commander-in-Chief:  "When we assumed the soldier, we did not lay aside the citizen."  Just as the contributions that our servicemen and women make to this nation don't end when they take off their uniform, neither do our obligations to them.  And when we fulfill those obligations, we aren't just keeping faith with our veterans; we are keeping faith with the ideals of service and sacrifice upon which this republic was founded.

If we're honest with ourselves, we'll admit that there have been times where we as a nation have betrayed that sacred trust.  Our Vietnam veterans served with great honor.  They often came home greeted not with gratitude or support, but with condemnation and neglect.  That's something that will never happen again.  To them and to all who have served, in every battle, in every war, we say that it's never too late to say thank you.  We honor your service.  We are forever grateful.  And just as you have not forgotten your missing comrades, neither, ever, will we.  Our servicemen and women have been doing right by America for generations.  And as long as I am Commander-in-Chief, America's going to do right by them.

That is my message to all veterans today.  That is my message to all who serve in harm's way.  To the husbands and wives back home doing the parenting of two.  To the parents who watch their sons and daughters go off to war, and the children who wonder when mom and dad is coming home.  To all our wounded warriors, and to the families who laid a loved one to rest.  America will not let you down.  We will take care of our own.

And to those who are serving in far-flung places today, when your tour ends, when you see our flag, when you touch our soil, you will be home in an America that is forever here for you just as you've been there for us.  That is my promise -- our nation's promise -- to you.

Ninety-one years ago today, the battlefields of Europe fell quiet as World War I came to a close.  But we don't mark this day each year as a celebration of victory, as proud of that victory as we are.  We mark this day as a celebration of those who made victory possible.  It's a day we keep in our minds the brave men and women of this young nation -- generations of them -- who above all else believed in and fought for a set of ideals.  Because they did, our country still stands; our founding principles still shine; nations around the world that once knew nothing but fear now know the blessings of freedom.

That is why we fight -- in hopes of a day when we no longer need to.  And that is why we gather at these solemn remembrances and reminders of war -- to recommit ourselves to the hard work of peace.

There will be a day before long when this generation of servicemen and women step out of uniform.  They will build families and lives of their own.  God willing, they will grow old.  And someday, their children, and their children's children, will gather here to honor them.

Thank you.  God bless you.  And God bless the United States of America.  (Applause.)
 
END                                                                       
11:44 A.M. EST
 
 

 
 

The White House

Office of the Vice President

For Immediate Release
November 10, 2009

Remarks by the Vice President at Memorial Service at Fort Lewis

Fort Lewis Chapel, Fort Lewis, Washington

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  My name is Joe Biden.  And on behalf of the President of the United States, I'm here to express my condolences to all those we honor today, and others who are here -- Gold Star families, who I had the opportunity to meet; and to this base, which has suffered an extraordinary loss. 

"Of courage undaunted, possessing a firmness and a perseverance of purpose which nothing but impossibilities could divert from its direction."

Thus spoke Thomas Jefferson, describing Meriwether Lewis -- the namesake of this fort.  Lewis's undaunted courage, his firmness and perseverance of purpose -- it lives in every corner of this base, and I suspect in the character and heart of all of you who serve in this base.  And now it will be eternally embodied by the service and sacrifice of Sergeant First Class Gonzalez, Sergeant Fernando Delarosa, Sergeant Dale Griffin, Sergeant Issac Jackson, Sergeant Patrick Williamson, and Specialist Jared Stanker, and Private First Class Christopher Walz.

Just before walking into this chapel, I had the honor to meet, as I said, some Gold Star families, in addition to the families represented here of those we honor today.  And they're all -- they're all incredible people.  It amazes me, getting the chance to talk to each of them, their courage in being able to deal with what is the most tragic of losses.  They all suffer from the loss of someone who meant the world to them:  Captain John Hallett; Captain Cory Jenkins; Sergeant Andrew McConnell; Specialist Aaron Aamat; Specialist Kevin Graham; Specialist Joseph White. 

Like every Blue Star family member, as my wife and I are, you realize that but for the grace of God we could be a member of that organization -- Gold Star parents.  In a sense, those of us who've had children, husbands and wives who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, I guess we all share a sense of relief and a sense of guilt that we're here, having our loved ones back.

I've unfortunately had the occasion to be at more than one memorial service as both Vice President and as a grieving father and husband.  As Vice President, I'm here to praise and honor your sons, your husbands, your fathers, your brothers, and let you know that the President and all the United States of America honors the sacrifice they've made and that you made. 

But as a father and a husband, I'm here to share with you the pain and to grieve with you, for I know there is nothing that any of us can say, clearly nothing I can say, that is likely to heal you today -- no solace I can offer to numb the grief consuming the wives and children and parents of those who are left behind -- that void you feel in your chest, that deep black hole that feels like it's sucking you in.

I wish I could.  I wish I knew the words to say.  But from my experience, no one could say them to me, and I doubt whether I can say them to you.

The poet William Cowper said -- and I quote -- "Grief is itself a medicine."  It's a bitter medicine, but perhaps the only medicine for a time like this, the only method of the human heart to heal itself from wounds of such incredible depth. 

Not today but someday, God willing, there will be some consolation you'll find in the knowledge that your son, your husband, your brother, your father gave his life in the pursuit of the noblest of all earthly goals:  defending his family, defending his country, defending and fighting for what he believed in.  That pursuit defined each of the warriors we honor today; each of the fallen angels that we brought home.  And it will define them, and has defined them, until the very end. 

Although I had not had the occasion to meet these fallen heroes on my trips to Afghanistan, I know them.  I know them because I've read about them, I've seen where they fight and fought and died, and I've had a chance to meet some of their family members.  And I'm struck by the fact that, to a man, being a soldier wasn't just something each of them did -- it was who they were.  They were heroes.  They were warriors.  They knew the risk, yet day after day they'd saddle up and go out into no man's land and do the job.
 
I always marvel back to the days when I was with you, General Chiarelli, in Iraq -- to watch true heroism as a man or a woman gets up every morning, goes out and does the same thing they did the day before, knowing the risk that they're taking.  I marvel at all of you.  I marvel at, the 17 times I've been into those two theaters, how we trained -- you have trained.  It seems like it's in the DNA of the women and men of this country to go out, day after day, and do that job.

William Shakespeare said, "Cowards die many times before their death.  The valiant never taste death but once."  There is no greater valiance than to serve your country, to sacrifice your precious time here on Earth for the ideals that will, because of your heroism, eventually light the darkest corners of the globe. And I might add, for all of you who stayed behind, the famous quote, "Those also serve who stand and wait."  So many of you, so many of you have given so much, so much to this country, at a time when there are so few people making the sacrifice.

The country honors what has been done and what continues to be done, and honors your husbands and your wives and your daughters and your sons.  But their life goes on after they honor. But you, every single day, continue.  You understand the loneliness of being separated, the danger that your spouse or son or daughter is undertaking, and you go on every day, like every day is normal.  You're an amazing, an amazing group of people.

General Shalikashvili, you told me a long, long time ago about the spirit of these kids -- they're not kids, they're grown men and women -- but it's amazing to me, it's amazing how so few do so much for so many.  It's that valiance that animates our memories of the 833 men and women who have sacrificed their lives in Afghanistan, and of the 4,360 who we've lost in Iraq. 

It's that valiance that we remember here today at Fort Lewis.  It's that valiance that we honor today at Fort Hood.  And it's that valiance that we'll celebrate tomorrow, our nation's 91st Veterans Day.

Today, these seven men take their place on the rolls of the greatest American heroes.  And the rest of us -- all the rest of America -- should once again be reminded and rededicate ourselves to a simple proposition:  The only sacred responsibility we have as a nation -- the only sacred responsibility we have as a nation -- is to give all those we send all they need, and care for them and their families when they come home.  That's the only truly sacred obligation our government has.  

Meriwether Lewis -- soldier, explorer, a leader of men -- when speaking of his historic expedition, said of those under his command, “With such men I have everything to hope, but little to fear.”

Well, I say to all Americans today:  Knowing these seven men are watching over us now, and that our military is filled with thousands upon thousands of women and men like them -- I think we can believe that, even as we struggle with tragedy, even as we grapple with the profound loss and devastating grief, we can look up at the heavens, think of those heroes, and know with certainty that we have everything to hope, but little to fear, thanks to them.

And I say again to the families that I've had the chance to meet and those that I will not have a chance to meet:  I know these men were a great deal more than soldiers and warriors to you.  They were the father who tucked you in at night; they're the husband who knew your fears before you expressed them; they're the brother who lifted you up; they're the son that made you laugh, and made you proud.
 
They loved their classic cars, their snowboarding, their country music, rap, video games, motorcycles.  They played spades, dominoes.  They were decent, ordinary -- but yet extraordinary -- young men.  They were so much more to their country as well:  They are our warriors; they are our heroes.  They are all of our sons; and they are all of our brothers. 

And, as a nation, as hollow as it sounds to say, we grieve with you.  We don't have the sense of the profound grief you're experiencing today, but we grieve with you.  And we owe you -- we owe you more than you can ever be repaid.

Let me close on a personal note, if I may, to the family members I met today.  Although there's no way to fathom this now -- I promise you, from my own experience, that the day will come that the memory of your son, your brother, your husband will immediately bring a smile to your lips, and not a tear to your eye.  That day will come, I promise you.  But my prayer for all of you is it comes sooner than later.

May God bless you all, and may God protect our troops.

END

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
November 10, 2009

Remarks by the President at Memorial Service at Fort Hood

Fort Hood - III Corps, Fort Hood, Texas

1:55 P.M. CST

THE PRESIDENT:  To the Fort Hood community; to Admiral Mullen; General Casey; General Cone; Secretary McHugh; Secretary Gates; most importantly, to family, friends and members of our Armed Forces.  We come together filled with sorrow for the 13 Americans that we have lost; with gratitude for the lives that they led; and with a determination to honor them through the work we carry on.

This is a time of war.  Yet these Americans did not die on a foreign field of battle.  They were killed here, on American soil, in the heart of this great state and the heart of this great American community.  This is the fact that makes the tragedy even more painful, even more incomprehensible.

For those families who have lost a loved one, no words can fill the void that's been left.  We knew these men and women as soldiers and caregivers.  You knew them as mothers and fathers; sons and daughters; sisters and brothers.

But here is what you must also know:  Your loved ones endure through the life of our nation.  Their memory will be honored in the places they lived and by the people they touched.  Their life's work is our security, and the freedom that we all too often take for granted.  Every evening that the sun sets on a tranquil town; every dawn that a flag is unfurled; every moment that an American enjoys life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness -- that is their legacy.

Neither this country -- nor the values upon which we were founded -- could exist without men and women like these 13 Americans.  And that is why we must pay tribute to their stories. 
Chief Warrant Officer Michael Cahill had served in the National Guard and worked as a physician's assistant for decades. A husband and father of three, he was so committed to his patients that on the day he died, he was back at work just weeks after having had a heart attack.

Major Libardo Eduardo Caraveo spoke little English when he came to America as a teenager.  But he put himself through college, earned a PhD, and was helping combat units cope with the stress of deployment.  He's survived by his wife, sons and step-daughters.
  
Staff Sergeant Justin DeCrow joined the Army right after high school, married his high school sweetheart, and had served as a light wheeled mechanic and satellite communications operator.  He was known as an optimist, a mentor, and a loving husband and loving father.

After retiring from the Army as a major, John Gaffaney cared for society's most vulnerable during two decades as a psychiatric nurse.  He spent three years trying to return to active duty in this time of war, and he was preparing to deploy to Iraq as a captain.  He leaves behind a wife and son.

Specialist Frederick Greene was a Tennessean who wanted to join the Army for a long time, and did so in 2008, with the support of his family.  As a combat engineer he was a natural leader, and he is survived by his wife and two daughters.

Specialist Jason Hunt was also recently married, with three children to care for.  He joined the Army after high school.  He did a tour in Iraq, and it was there that he reenlisted for six more years on his 21st birthday so that he could continue to serve.

Staff Sergeant Amy Krueger was an athlete in high school, joined the Army shortly after 9/11, and had since returned home to speak to students about her experience.  When her mother told her she couldn't take on Osama bin Laden by herself, Amy replied: "Watch me."

Private First Class Aaron Nemelka was an Eagle Scout who just recently signed up to do one of the most dangerous jobs in the service -- diffuse bombs -- so that he could help save lives. He was proudly carrying on a tradition of military service that runs deep within his family. 

Private First Class Michael Pearson loved his family and loved his music, and his goal was to be a music teacher.  He excelled at playing the guitar, and could create songs on the spot and show others how to play.  He joined the military a year ago, and was preparing for his first deployment.

Captain Russell Seager worked as a nurse for the VA, helping veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress.  He had extraordinary respect for the military, and signed up to serve so that he could help soldiers cope with the stress of combat and return to civilian life.  He leaves behind a wife and son.

Private Francheska Velez, daughter of a father from Colombia and a Puerto Rican mother, had recently served in Korea and in Iraq, and was pursuing a career in the Army.  When she was killed she was pregnant with her first child, and was excited about becoming a mother.

Lieutenant Colonel Juanita Warman was the daughter and granddaughter of Army veterans.  She was a single mom who put herself through college and graduate school, and served as a nurse practitioner while raising her two daughters.  She also left behind a loving husband.

Private First Class Kham Xiong came to America from Thailand as a small child.  He was a husband and father who followed his brother into the military because his family had a strong history of service.  He was preparing for his first deployment to Afghanistan.

These men and women came from all parts of the country.  Some had long careers in the military.  Some had signed up to serve in the shadow of 9/11.  Some had known intense combat in Iraq and Afghanistan, and some cared for those did.  Their lives speak to the strength, the dignity, the decency of those who serve, and that's how they will be remembered.

For that same spirit is embodied in the community here at Fort Hood, and in the many wounded who are still recovering.  As was already mentioned, in those terrible minutes during the attack, soldiers made makeshift tourniquets out of their clothes. They braved gunfire to reach the wounded, and ferried them to safety in the backs of cars and a pickup truck.

One young soldier, Amber Bahr, was so intent on helping others, she did not realize for some time that she, herself, had been shot in the back.  Two police officers -- Mark Todd and Kim Munley -- saved countless lives by risking their own.  One medic -- Francisco de la Serna -- treated both Officer Munley and the gunman who shot her.

It may be hard to comprehend the twisted logic that led to this tragedy.  But this much we do know -- no faith justifies these murderous and craven acts; no just and loving God looks upon them with favor.  For what he has done, we know that the killer will be met with justice -- in this world, and the next.

These are trying times for our country.  In Afghanistan and Pakistan, the same extremists who killed nearly 3,000 Americans continue to endanger America, our allies, and innocent Afghans and Pakistanis.  In Iraq, we're working to bring a war to a successful end, as there are still those who would deny the Iraqi people the future that Americans and Iraqis have sacrificed so much for.

As we face these challenges, the stories of those at Fort Hood reaffirm the core values that we are fighting for, and the strength that we must draw upon.  Theirs are the tales of American men and women answering an extraordinary call -- the call to serve their comrades, their communities, and their country.  In an age of selfishness, they embody responsibility.  In an era of division, they call upon us to come together.  In a time of cynicism, they remind us of who we are as Americans.

We are a nation that endures because of the courage of those who defend it.  We saw that valor in those who braved bullets here at Fort Hood, just as surely as we see it in those who signed up knowing that they would serve in harm’s way.

We are a nation of laws whose commitment to justice is so enduring that we would treat a gunman and give him due process, just as surely as we will see that he pays for his crimes.

We're a nation that guarantees the freedom to worship as one chooses.  And instead of claiming God for our side, we remember Lincoln’s words, and always pray to be on the side of God.

We're a nation that is dedicated to the proposition that all men and women are created equal.  We live that truth within our military, and see it in the varied backgrounds of those we lay to rest today.  We defend that truth at home and abroad, and we know that Americans will always be found on the side of liberty and equality.  That's who we are as a people.

Tomorrow is Veterans Day.  It's a chance to pause, and to pay tribute -- for students to learn the struggles that preceded them; for families to honor the service of parents and grandparents; for citizens to reflect upon the sacrifices that have been made in pursuit of a more perfect union.

For history is filled with heroes.  You may remember the stories of a grandfather who marched across Europe; an uncle who fought in Vietnam; a sister who served in the Gulf.  But as we honor the many generations who have served, all of us -- every single American -- must acknowledge that this generation has more than proved itself the equal of those who've come before.

We need not look to the past for greatness, because it is before our very eyes.

This generation of soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen have volunteered in the time of certain danger. They are part of the finest fighting force that the world has ever known.  They have served tour after tour of duty in distant, different and difficult places.  They have stood watch in blinding deserts and on snowy mountains.  They have extended the opportunity of self-government to peoples that have suffered tyranny and war.  They are man and woman; white, black, and brown; of all faiths and all stations -- all Americans, serving together to protect our people, while giving others half a world away the chance to lead a better life.

In today’s wars, there's not always a simple ceremony that signals our troops’ success -- no surrender papers to be signed, or capital to be claimed.  But the measure of the impact of these young men and women is no less great -- in a world of threats that no know borders, their legacy will be marked in the safety of our cities and towns, and the security and opportunity that's extended abroad.  It will serve as testimony to the character of those who served, and the example that all of you in uniform set for America and for the world.

Here, at Fort Hood, we pay tribute to 13 men and women who were not able to escape the horror of war, even in the comfort of home.  Later today, at Fort Lewis, one community will gather to remember so many in one Stryker Brigade who have fallen in Afghanistan.

Long after they are laid to rest -- when the fighting has finished, and our nation has endured; when today’s servicemen and women are veterans, and their children have grown -- it will be said that this generation believed under the most trying of tests; believed in perseverance -- not just when it was easy, but when it was hard; that they paid the price and bore the burden to secure this nation, and stood up for the values that live in the hearts of all free peoples.

So we say goodbye to those who now belong to eternity.  We press ahead in pursuit of the peace that guided their service. May God bless the memory of those that we have lost.  And may God bless the United States of America.  (Applause.)  

END
2:12 P.M. CST

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
November 07, 2009

Remarks by the President on Upcoming Vote in the House of Representatives on Health Care Reform

Rose Garden

1:20 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT:  Good afternoon, everybody.  I just want to say a few words about the landmark vote that the House of Representatives is poised to take today -- a vote that can bring us one step closer to making real the promise of quality, affordable health care for the American people.

For the better part of a year now, members of the House and the Senate have been working diligently and constructively to craft legislation that will benefit millions of American families and millions of American businesses who urgently need it.  For the first time ever, they've passed bills through every single committee responsible for reform.  They've brought us closer than we have ever been to passing health insurance reform on behalf of the American people.

Now is the time to finish the job.  The bill that the House has produced will provide stability and security for Americans who have insurance; quality, affordable options for those who don't; and lower costs for American families and American businesses.  And as I've insisted from the beginning, it is a bill that is fully paid for and will actually reduce our long-term federal deficit.

This bill is change that the American people urgently need. Don't just take my word for it.  Consider the national groups who've come out in support of this bill on behalf of their members:  The Consumers Union supports it because it will create -- and I quote -- "a more secure, affordable health care system for the American people." 

The American Medical Association and the American Nurses Association support it on behalf of doctors and nurses and medical professionals who know firsthand what's broken in our current system, and who see what happens when their patients can't get the care they need because of insurance industry bureaucracies.

The National Farmers Union supports this bill because it will control costs for farmers and ranchers, and address the unique challenges rural Americans face when it comes to receiving quality care.

And the AARP supports it because it will achieve the goal for which the AARP has been fighting for decades -- reducing the cost of health care, expanding coverage for America's seniors, and strengthening Medicare for the long haul.

Now, no bill can ever contain everything that everybody wants, or please every constituency and every district.  That's an impossible task.  But what is possible, what's in our grasp right now is the chance to prevent a future where every day 14,000 Americans continue to lose their health insurance, and every year 18,000 Americans die because they don't have it; a future where crushing costs keep small businesses from succeeding and big businesses from competing in the global economy; a future where countless dreams are deferred or scaled back because of a broken system we could have fixed when we had the chance.

What we can do right now is choose a better future and pass a bill that brings us to the very cusp of building what so many generations of Americans have sought to build -- a better health care system for this country.

Millions of Americans are watching right now.  Their families and their businesses are counting on us.  After all, this is why they sent us here, to finally confront the challenges that Washington had been putting off for decades -- to make their lives better, to leave this country stronger than we found it. 

I just came from the Hill where I talked to the members of Congress there, and I reminded them that opportunities like this come around maybe once in a generation.  Most public servants pass through their entire careers without a chance to make as important a difference in the lives of their constituents and the life of this country.  This is their moment, this is our moment, to live up to the trust that the American people have placed in us -- even when it's hard; especially when it's hard.  This is our moment to deliver.

I urge members of Congress to rise to this moment.  Answer the call of history, and vote yes for health insurance reform for America.

Thanks.

END                                                
1:25 P.M. EST

    

 

 

 

 

 
 

WASHINGTON – En su mensaje semanal, el Presidente Barack Obama expresó pesar por la tragedia de Fort Hood y elogió el valor desinteresado de quienes acudieron en ayuda de los heridos. Mientras estamos de duelo por esta violencia desgarradora, debemos honrar el heroísmo de los soldados y civiles que se apresuraron a ayudar a sus compañeros. Ese heroísmo hace que las fuerzas armadas de Estados Unidos sean las mejores del mundo.

El audio y video estarán disponibles a las 6:00am del sábado, 7 de noviembre, 2009 en www.whitehouse.gov.

Declaraciones del Presidente Barack Obama
Versión Preparada
Mensaje Semanal
Sábado, 7 de noviembre, 2009

Quiero hablarles unos minutos hoy sobre la tragedia que tuvo lugar en Ft. Hood. El jueves pasado, en una tarde de cielo despejado en Texas, un siquiatra del Ejército entró al Centro de Procedimientos de Preparación de Soldados y comenzó a disparar contra colegas suyos de las fuerzas armadas.

Fue un acto de violencia que habría sido doloroso si hubiese sucedido en cualquier lugar de Estados Unidos. Es un crimen que nos habría horrorizado, independientemente del origen de las víctimas. Pero es particularmente desgarrador y despreciable debido al lugar donde ocurrió y a los patriotas que cobró como víctimas.

Es a este centro donde nuestros hombres y mujeres de uniforme acuden antes de ser movilizados. Es allí que se hacen exámenes dentales y se actualizan sus historias clínicas y se aseguran de que todo esté conforme antes de ser transferidos al extranjero. Fue en ese lugar, en una base donde nuestros soldados deberían poder sentirse más seguros, donde estos valientes estadounidenses que se preparaban a arriesgar la vida en defensa de nuestra nación, perdieron la vida por un crimen contra nuestra nación.

Soldados apostados en Irak, Afganistán y en todo el mundo llamaron y enviaron mensajes a seres queridos en Ft. Hood, todos expresando la misma estupefacción: Se supone que yo sea el que está en peligro, no ustedes.

La matanza del jueves fue una de las más desgarradoras jamás cometidas en una base militar de Estados Unidos. Sin embargo, incluso cuando puso en evidente lo peor de la naturaleza humana, vimos también lo mejor de Estados Unidos. Vimos tanto a soldados como civiles apresurarse a ayudar a sus compañeros caídos; desgarrarles la ropa perforada a balas para tratar a los lesionados; usar blusas como torniquetes; repeler al tirador a pesar de ellos mismos estar heridos.

Vimos a soldados demostrar en nuestro propio territorio las aptitudes que fueron entrenados para usar en el extranjero; aptitudes que han sido perfeccionadas durante años de esfuerzo decidido con un solo propósito: proteger y defender a Estados Unidos de Norteamérica.

Vimos el valor, desprendimiento y común propósito que hacen de nuestros soldados los mejores del planeta; que hacen que los militares de Estados Unidos sean los mejores que el mundo jamás ha conocido, y que hace que todos nosotros nos enorgullezcamos de ser estadounidenses.

El viernes, me reuní con el director Mueller de la FBI, el secretario de Defensa Gates y representantes de las agencias correspondientes para hablar sobre la investigación en curso para dilucidar qué motivó este terrible crimen. Y continuaré en estrecho contacto con ellos a medida que llegue nueva información.

No es posible llegar a saber del todo qué lleva a un hombre a hacer una cosa así. Pero lo que sí sabemos es que nuestros pensamientos están con cada uno de los hombres y mujeres heridos en Ft. Hood. Nuestros pensamientos están con todas las familias que han perdido a un ser querido en esta tragedia nacional. Y nuestros pensamientos están con todos los estadounidenses que llevan o que han llevado el gallardo uniforme de Estados Unidos de Norteamérica: nuestros soldados, marineros, aviadores, infantes de Marina y guardacostas, y las familias militares que los aman y apoyan.

En memoria a los caídos de Ft. Hood, he ordenado banderas a media asta en la Casa Blanca y otros edificios federales, desde hoy hasta el miércoles, el Día de los Veteranos.
El Día de los Veteranos es nuestra oportunidad de rendirles homenaje a estos estadounidenses que han servido en los campos de batalla desde Lexington a Antietam, desde Normandía a Manila, de Inchon a Khe Sanh, de Ramadi a Kandahar.

Son estadounidenses de todas las esferas, razas y religiones. Son cristianos y musulmanes, judíos e hindúes, y no creyentes. Son descendientes de inmigrantes e inmigrantes. Reflejan la diversidad que define a Estados Unidos. Pero lo que comparten es un patriotismo sin igual. Lo que comparten es un compromiso con el país que ha sido sometido a prueba y salido airoso. Lo que comparten es la misma valentía imperturbable, compasión inagotable y camaradería inusual que los soldados y civiles de Ft. Hood le mostraron a Estados Unidos y al mundo.

Son estos los hombres y mujeres a los que les rendimos homenaje hoy. Son estos los hombres y mujeres a los que les rendiremos homenaje el Día de los Veteranos. Y son estos los hombres y mujeres a los que les rendimos homenaje todos los días, en tiempos de guerra y en tiempos de paz, mientras nuestra nación perdure.

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