President George W. Bush Visits the Department to Thank HUD Employees Across America "�for your service to the greatest nation on the face of the Earth."

Wednesday, June 19, 2002
Transcript of remarks by President Bush at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Washington, D.C., during the first National Homeownership Month, June 18, 2002.

[President Bush came to HUD to thank every employee for their service to 'the greatest nation on the face of the earth.']
THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you all very much for that kind welcome. I'm here for a couple of reasons. First, I want to thank you all for your service to the greatest nation on the face of the Earth. (Applause.) I'm here to celebrate National Homeownership Month, because I believe owning a home is an essential part of economic security. And I'm concerned about the security of America. (Applause.)

[Speaking about Secretary Martinez and Deputy Secretary Jackson, the President said: 'There was no question in my mind that these two fine Americans would do a great job in leading this important agency.']
I had the pleasure on June the 12th of speaking to the last President who visited HUD. I wish number 41 a happy birthday. (Applause.) And I'm glad you've invited me here today, I really am. I first am really proud of Mel Martinez and Alphonso Jackson. I've known Mel for a while, I've known Alphonso for a long time. There was no question in my mind that these two fine Americans would do a great job in leading this important agency. (Applause.)

I want to thank all those who have assumed leadership roles, who have left your states and your friends to come and serve America. And that's important. Service to our country is an incredibly important part of being an American...more

Read the full transcript of President Bush's remarks to HUD employees across the nation, or view the HUD webcast.

[Secretary Martinez with the World Children's Choir. The children sang and entertained the large crowd of HUD employees before President George W. Bush addressed HUD employees.]
In his remarks, President Bush thanked the World Children's Choir (LEFT, with Secretary Martinez). The children sang and delighted the large crowd of HUD career and policy staff for a full hour as people assembled in the HUD Cafeteria to hear the President's remarks. The last President to visit HUD was "Number 41," President George H.W. Bush - President Bush's father. President George W. Bush spoke at HUD Headquarters and to employees across the nation on June 18, 2002 via closed circuit television and a computer "webcast."

 
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