President Earthquake and Tsunami Victims

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary December 29, 2004

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President Discusses Support for Earthquake and Tsunami Victims Prairie Chapel Ranch Crawford, Texas information on US Humanitarian Assistance and how you can help President Discusses Support for Earthquake and Tsunami Victims FULL STREAMING Audio

8:38 A.M. CST

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. Laura and I and the American people are shocked and we are saddened by the terrible loss of life from the recent earthquake and the tsunamis in the Indian Ocean. Our prayers go out to the people who have lost so much to this series of disasters. Our hearts are also with the Americans who have lost loved ones in this tragedy. Our embassies are working with host governments to locate American citizens who are still missing and to assist those who have been injured or displaced.

This morning, I spoke with the leaders of India, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Indonesia, and expressed my condolences and our country's condolences. I told them of our support; I praised their steadfast leadership during these difficult times. We're grateful to the American and international organizations that are working courageously to save lives and to provide assistance, and I assured those leaders this is only the beginning of our help.

We are committed to helping the affected countries in the difficult weeks and months that lie ahead. We pledged an initial $35 million in relief assistance. We have deployed disaster experts to the region. All leaders expressed their appreciation for the hard work of our ambassadors and their embassy staffs to help the countries in need. As well, we're dispatching a Marine expeditionary unit, the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, and the Maritime pre-position squadron from Guam to the area to help with relief efforts.

Secretary Powell is working hard. He has spoken with his counterparts in Japan, India, Australia, as well as other nations who are helping with the response in order to begin building an international coalition for immediate humanitarian relief and long-term recovery and reconstruction efforts. Based on these discussions, we've established a regional core group with India, Japan and Australia to help coordinate relief efforts. I'm confident more nations will join this core group in short order. Under Secretary of State Mark Grossman will lead a U.S. task force to work with these partners to help coordinate interagency response in our own government and to encourage other nations to participate in the relief efforts.

These past few days have brought loss and grief to the world that is beyond our comprehension. The United States will continue to stand with the affected governments as they care for the victims. We will stand with them as they start to rebuild their communities. And together the world will cope with their loss; we will prevail over this destruction.

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Let me answer some questions. Deb.

Q Mr. President, more than 50 people died yesterday, alone, in the Sunni Triangle area. And with the Sunnis backing out of the election, how concerned are you that the world and the Iraqis will view this election as credible?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, you said "with the Sunnis backing out," you mean a Sunni party has backed out? Yes. I talked to President Yawer yesterday, who happens to be a Sunni, who on the one hand expressed concern about the security situation in Mosul, and on the other hand, reminded me that most people in Iraq -- Sunni or Shia -- want to vote. And so the task at hand is to provide as much security as possible for the election officials, as well as for the people inside cities like Mosul, to encourage them to express their will.

Now, Osama bin Laden issued a statement, as you know, which made the stakes of this pretty clear to me. His vision of the world is where people don't participate in democracy. His vision of the world is where people kill innocent lives in order to affect their behavior and affect their way of living. His vision of the world is one in which there is no freedom of expression, freedom of religion, and/or freedom of conscience. And that vision stands in stark contrast to the vision of, by far, the vast majority of Iraqis and leaders like Prime Minister Allawi and President Yawer, whose vision includes the freedom of expression, the freedom of the right to vote.

And so the stakes are clear in this upcoming election. It's the difference between the ability for individuals to express themselves and the willingness of an individual to try and impose his dark vision on the world, on the people of Iraq and elsewhere. And it's very important that these elections proceed.

We just got off a conference call with our acting -- not "acting" -- Ambassador Negroponte is not in Baghdad, but Ambassador Jeffrey, his number two man, as well as General Casey, talking about how best to provide the security necessary for people to feel comfortable in voting.

Yes, ma'am.

Q Mr. President, were you offended by the suggestion that rich nations have been stingy in the aid over the tsunami? And is this a sign of another rift with the U.N.?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I felt like the person who made that statement was very misguided and ill-informed. The -- take, for example, in the year 2004, our government provided $2.4 billion in food, in cash, in humanitarian relief to cover the disasters for last year. That's $2.4 billion. That's 40 percent of all the relief aid given in the world last year, was provided by the United States government. No, we're a very generous, kindhearted nation.

You know, the -- what you're beginning to see is a typical response from America. First of all, we provide immediate cash relief, to the tune of about $35 billion [sic]. And then there will be an assessment of the damage, so that the relief is -- the next tranche of relief will be spent wisely. That's what's happening now. I just got off the phone with the President of Sri Lanka, she asked for help to assess the damage. In other words, not only did they want immediate help, but they wanted help to assess damage so that we can better direct resources. And so our government is fully prepared to continue to provide assistance and help.

It takes money, by the way, to move an expeditionary force into the region. In other words, we're diverting assets, which is part of our overall aid package. We'll continue to provide assets. Plus, the American people will be very generous, themselves. I mean, the $2.4 billion was public money -- of course, provided by the taxpayers. But there's also a lot of individual giving in America. In this case, I think it's very important for Americans who want to give to provide cash to organizations that will be able to focus resources and assets to meet specific needs. In other words, a lot of times Americans, in their desire to help, will send blankets or clothes. That may be necessary, but to me it makes more sense to send cash to organizations that could then use that cash to make sure we match resources with specific needs on the ground. There are many NGOs now involved that understand what is specifically needed to meet the needs of these countries.

This has been a terrible disaster. I mean, it's just beyond our comprehension to think about how many lives have been lost. I know that our fellow citizens are particularly troubled to learn that many of the deaths were young children, and we grieve for their families, their moms and dads who are just, you know, heartsick during this -- during these times.

Yes, Holly.

Q Sir, Schroeder this morning said that the Paris Club nations should put a moratorium on this debt of Somalia and Indonesia. Is that something that you think the U.S. and other Paris Club nations should do, put a moratorium on these countries' debt?

THE PRESIDENT: We'll look at all requests. Right now we're assessing the short-term needs. We are -- there are two issues that are involved, obviously, in these disasters. One, what can we do immediately to help? And then, what needs to happen in the long-term to help these countries rebuild? And we're still at the stage of immediate help. But slowly but surely, the size of the problem will become known, particularly when it comes to rebuilding infrastructure and community, to help these affected parts of the world get back up on their feet.

Q Mr. President, are you confident that the U.S. west coast residents -- Hawaiian residents, Alaska residents -- are well enough protected with early warning systems for possible tsunamis affecting this country and coastal --

THE PRESIDENT: No, I appreciate that question, it's a -- I think that part of the long-term strategy in how to deal with natural disaster is to make sure we have -- "we," the world, has a proper tsunami warning system. As a matter of fact, the President of Sri Lanka also mentioned that to me. She said that one of the things that she and the Prime Minister of India discussed -- I'm not sure they discussed it, but they're both thinking the same way, let me put it to you that way -- is the development of a proper warning system. And I think it's going to be very -- I can't answer your question specifically, do we have enough of a warning system for the west coast. I am going to -- I am now asking that to our agencies and government to let us know. I mean, that's a very legitimate question. Clearly, there wasn't a proper warning system in place for that part of the world, and it seems like to me it makes sense for the world to come together to develop a warning system that will help all nations.

Q And seeing that as we have, does it concern you that we may not have that mechanism in place? Or is this something we can use through our civil defense air raid siren system?

THE PRESIDENT: I just have to look into it, that's a very legitimate question. I am on the -- I presume that we are in pretty good shape. I think our location in the world is such that we may be less vulnerable than other parts, but I am not a geologist, as you know. But I think it's a very legitimate question.

I've so far focused on the international approach towards a tsunami warning systems and it seems like to me it's a -- it makes sense for governments to come together and figure out how best to provide a warning system that will help all nations be prepared for such a disaster. Obviously, such a warning system was not in place.

Yes, Richard.

Q Mr. President, there continues to be criticism of the speed with which American troops are being armed in Iraq. Are you satisfied with the way the --

THE PRESIDENT: If the Iraqi troops are being armed?

Q No, the U.S. troops.

THE PRESIDENT: Oh, I beg your pardon.

Q Are you satisfied with the pace with which the U.S. troops are being armed in Iraq?

THE PRESIDENT: Are you talking about the armored vehicle issue, for example?

Q That and others.

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I have looked at the statistics on that, and we have stepped up the production of armored Humvees significantly. The other issue is the rearmament of existing -- of vehicles that are now in theater, vehicles that require a different armament structure than that which they initially were manufactured with. And I am told that those vehicles will be armed up by mid-summer of 2005. And what I know is, is that the Defense Department is working expeditiously with private contractors and with our military to get these vehicles armed up.

Well, listen, thank you all for coming by. I'm sorry to disrupt your day, but I felt like it was important to talk about what is going to be one of the major natural disasters in world history. And it's important for the world to know that our government is focused and will continue to respond to help those who suffer.

Thank you.

Q Any plans for New Year's Eve?

THE PRESIDENT: Early to bed.

Q New Year's resolutions?

THE PRESIDENT: I'll let you know. Already gave you a hint on one, which is my waistline. I'm trying to set an example.

Thank you all.

END 8:51 A.M. CST

Secretary Colin L. Powell Fox and Friends Brian Kilmeade

Interview on Fox and Friends With Brian Kilmeade

Secretary Colin L. Powell Washington, DC December 28, 2004 (6:51 a.m. EST)

MR. KILMEADE: Joining us right now, we're talking to the Secretary of State, Colin Powell. And the focus right now, Mr. Secretary, thanks so much for joining us. We appreciate it.

SECRETARY POWELL: My pleasure.

MR. KILMEADE: I guess the focus right now is the massive devastation which has devastated ten nations, through five time zones, through the tsunami. Can you give us an idea of what the U.S. is already committed to do?

SECRETARY POWELL: Yes. This is an unprecedented catastrophe. I mean, as you noted, five times zones, ten countries involved, tens upon tens of thousands of people lost. The number right now, 26,000. That number will go up.

The United States has already committed $15 million, $4 million initially, to the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, another $10 million to other disaster relief agencies. Our Pacific Command has dispatched nine patrol planes and 12 C-130s carrying relief supplies. So it's $15 million initially, plus the work that the military is doing.

But clearly the nature of this catastrophe is such that more assistance will be required, but it will take time to see what the needs of these nations are and how best to help them.

MR. KILMEADE: Well, who are you going to, Mr. Secretary, in terms of getting -- we have to be under one command in this to rebuild the entire area, rather than just flooding in money and operations and people, how are we going about it? Who are we going through?

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, we're going about it in several ways. One, I've been in touch with the Secretary General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan. We spoke last night. And he has appointed individuals within the UN to handle all of the UN's disaster relief activities. And then we're dealing directly with each of the individual countries. It isn't something you can deal with on a regional basis because these are sovereign nations. Some of these sovereign nations are better able to manage the problem without a great deal of outside assistance, and other nations are not as equipped to deal with the problem and they will need more assistance. Sri Lanka, for example, will need a lot more help than, say, India, which is a more sophisticated nation able to manage a great deal of its own relief effort.

MR. KILMEADE: Do you have a sense of the operation, if people watching right now in America -- we're the kindest country in the history of this planet -- where we should go, how we should help, where we should send our stuff and our money?

SECRETARY POWELL: The best way to make a contribution, I would suggest you go to our website, state.gov, state.gov -- very easy -- and on our website you will see addresses and phone numbers of locations where you can make donations or you can make other inquiries as to what is needed.

We have to make sure that we send people what they really need, and not just flood them with things they don't need, which then clutters up the entire transportation system. So if you go to our website, you'll find information that will cue you.

MR. KILMEADE: And, Mr. Secretary, your things-to-do list doesn't just revolve around the tsunami, which would be enough for anybody, we've got to talk also about Iraq and the January 30th elections. Yesterday, at least yesterday, bin Laden factored himself into the fray, saying Zarqawi's my man and Sunnis stay out. What does that do to the election process, if anything?

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, we now have two murderers, two terrorists, two thugs, talking to each other. I don't know what this rhetorical support will translate into, but we're moving right ahead toward elections on the 30th of January. The Iraqi people deserve the opportunity, they have the right to vote, to see who their leaders will be for the future, and we cannot allow murderers and terrorists to deny them that right.

Now, in most of the country the election will go off well; it's relatively secure. In the Sunni area, which is the most populated part of the country, we have an insurgency that is raging and we will be devoting all of our coalition efforts and the efforts of Iraqi military and police forces to bring this under control so that people will feel secure and safe in coming out to vote. It won't be perfect, but I think people want to vote, and they're prepared to take some risk to go out and vote, just as they did in Afghanistan, just as they have done in other parts of the world where terrorists came out and said we're not going to let you vote. The people said we want to vote, we want to have a say in how we're going to be governed and how we're going to be led.

MR. KILMEADE: You're a master diplomat. Who are you going to go to in Iraq, a representative of the Sunni population, to get them more involved in the process, with their largest Sunni party saying, "Count me out"?

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, we're talking to all of the Sunni leaders and we're encouraging neighboring countries that have contacts with Sunni leaders to speak to those leaders and get them to say to the people, "Come out and vote." The party that pulled out, we hope that they will review their actions and take another look at security closer to the event, and perhaps rejoin the process.

But we know there is a concern in the Sunni community about the insurgency, about safety, and we're doing everything we can to allay those concerns so that the people can come out and vote on the 30th of January.

MR. KILMEADE: Mr. Secretary, did you tell Tony Blair and the President of the United States he needs more troops in Iraq?

SECRETARY POWELL: In my conversation with President Bush and Prime Minister Blair at an Oval Office meeting when Prime Minister Blair was visiting the United States last month, we got to talking about the situation and I said that we needed more troops on the ground and the solution to that challenge was to build up the Iraqi forces as quickly as possible.

MR. KILMEADE: Right.

SECRETARY POWELL: And that was the real answer to the question.

MR. KILMEADE: So, in other words, you didn't say, "Get more American troops in there. That's my recommendation as a military guy and the Secretary of State," you just said, "Get more Iraqis ready to go," which seems to be a very frustrating process?

SECRETARY POWELL: It's a process that takes time. You just don't create battalions and divisions overnight. General Petraeus, one of our most skilled commanders, is working on this, and what I said to Prime Minister Blair and to President Bush is that we need more troops on the ground to provide the security that the people expect and that we need in order to get the job done; and since it was unlikely that there would be large numbers of additional coalition troops available, the solution to the problem was to build up the Iraqi forces as quickly as we could. It wasn't a surprising comment on my part because that's exactly what our strategy has been.

MR. KILMEADE: And two real quick issues. As you leave office, two things I want to get your opinion on. Are we in danger of giving birth to another Iran if this -- if Ayatollah Sistani leads a party that now is in control of Iraq?

SECRETARY POWELL: No, I don't think so. This is an election that's being held under a set of rules, the Transitional Administrative Law, which recognizes that the Shia will be the majority in any national assembly but that the rights of minority are protected. And yes, there are Iraqi Shias and Iranian Shias, but they are quite different and I think the Iraqis Shias have no particular love for the brand of fundamentalism that they see across the border in Iran. Yes, they are Shias. Yes, they are faithful. But they have acknowledged in participating in the drafting of the Transitional Administrative Law, that they recognize that religion has a place in society but politics has a place in society, and the politics of the situation means that they will have to accommodate the needs and desires and aspirations of the minorities.

MR. KILMEADE: Yeah, let's hope. And Hamas doing kind of well and gaining a foothold in the Palestinian elections, at least preliminarily, does that concern you?

SECRETARY POWELL: That's something we have to look at carefully. If Hamas continues to support terrorist activity and has elements within Hamas that conduct terrorist activity and they are not prepared to fully enter the political process as a peaceful organization that will have nothing to do with terrorism -- that's what they have to do -- and if they don't do that, then I think it is a problem.

MR. KILMEADE: You going to miss this job?

SECRETARY POWELL: This has been an exciting job and I am going to miss it. I'm going to miss the people I've been working with. But, you know, new doors are out there waiting to be opened.

MR. KILMEADE: So is that your way of saying you'd like to come to Fox News in some capacity?

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, I haven't been given an offer.

MR. KILMEADE: All right. I'm going to work on it, okay? I'll go to your people. Thank you, Mr. Secretary of State, Colin Powell. Thanks for joining us live this morning on Fox and Friends.

SECRETARY POWELL: Thank you very much.
2004/1401 [End] Released on December 28, 2004

Secretary Colin L. Powell CNN American Morning Heidi Collins

Interview on CNN's American Morning With Heidi Collins

Secretary Colin L. Powell Washington, DC December 28, 2004 (7:05 a.m. EST)

MS. COLLINS: A few moments ago, I spoke with Secretary of State Colin Powell at the State Department about relief efforts and I asked for his reaction to comments by a UN Under Secretary General calling U.S. relief efforts stingy.

SECRETARY POWELL: It's a terrible catastrophe that has hit all of these countries, unprecedented in scope and scale, and that death toll you mentioned is liable to rise even higher. So we will have to make an assessment as we move ahead to see what the needs are, to see what the countries are able to do for themselves, and what the international community needs.

We responded to the initial request that came from the International Federation of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent with a $4 million contribution against their $7 million international request. We've added another $10 million. We have got something like nine patrol planes on the way and 12 C-130s loaded with relief supplies on the way and we'll make a continuing assessment to see what the need is.

The United States is not stingy. We are the greatest contributor to international relief efforts in the world. We do more to help people who are suffering from lack of food or poverty or suffering from HIV/AIDS, and this Administration has a particularly good record in increasing the amount of assistance that we give to the world. But obviously we have to see what the need is in this terrible tragedy and we will respond to the need along with the rest of the international community.

MS. COLLINS: I know you said yesterday in your press conference that there are eight Americans who have lost their lives in this, still many more unaccounted for. Do you have an update on any of those figures for us?

SECRETARY POWELL: The latest numbers we have are 11 Americans have lost their lives, a number have been wounded, and hundreds are yet unaccounted for. It doesn't mean that they have been lost or are injured, and we haven't found them in hospitals yet. We just haven't been able to run them all down because of difficult communications, and people are still checking in with our consular officers.

MS. COLLINS: Well, I imagine those people very desperately want to get home back to this country. Any idea how many are still just stranded there?

SECRETARY POWELL: I can't give you an answer to that, but obviously the airline schedules have been disrupted, transportation has been disrupted. But there are still hundreds, if not thousands, of tourists, not just American tourists but other tourists, who are trying to get home or trying to get in touch with their families.

MS. COLLINS: Well, I appreciate your answers on that. Let's go ahead and turn the corner, if we could now, Mr. Secretary. In talking about this new tape from Usama bin Laden that the CIA has said they're moderately confident of its authenticity, it seems to be endorsing Abu-Musab al-Zarqawi.

And if that is the case, what sort of increased power does that give Zarqawi?

SECRETARY POWELL: I don't know. If it is Usama bin Laden -- and the CIA has not made a final judgment on that -- it certainly rhetorically puts them together. Whether it gives them any added strength or not in terms of resources, I can't answer. But it would rhetorically put them together and they are both of a like kind: terrorists, murderers. They're speaking out against the election at the end of January in Iraq because they don't want democracy, they don't want the Iraqi people to decide how they will be led. They want to take the Iraqi people back to the past, and that's why we must push forward, keep fighting this insurgency and move forward towards elections on the 30th of January, so that the Iraqi people get the opportunity to speak for themselves.

MS. COLLINS: Right. And as you mentioned, the elections coming up so quickly. Just yesterday, the leader of one of the largest Sunni organizations, the Iraqi Islamic Party, announced they're going to boycott these elections, citing some security concerns and so forth.

How big of a setback is that, or could it be, for the planned elections?

SECRETARY POWELL: It's a concern. They may change their mind and rejoin. We'll have to wait and see.

We're doing everything we can to improve the security in the Sunni areas. I don't think there's going to be a problem in most of the country in getting a good turnout. The problem is really in the Sunni area and that's a densely populated area so we want to get a good turnout there. And all of our coalition military efforts and Iraqi military and police efforts are going to be focusing on the Sunni area in the weeks ahead to get that turnout.

And we're encouraging Sunni leaders, especially Sunni leaders in neighboring countries, to encourage Sunni leaders in Iraq to get their people to come out and participate in this election. If they don't participate in this election, they're denying themselves the opportunity to speak for the future of their country and how they're going to be led and who their leaders are going to be.

MS. COLLINS: And whether they participate or not, the elections will go on January 30th?

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, the elections will go on and we hope they will participate. And if the election goes well, then we will have a Transitional National Assembly that will reflect the will of the Iraqi people.

MS. COLLINS: Secretary of State Colin Powell talking with me just a little bit earlier today. For information on how to help with relief efforts for the tsunami, you can go to the State Department's website. You can see it at www.state.gov. And family members concerned about loved ones can call the State Department hotline. That number, 1-888-407-4747.

2004/1404 [End] Released on December 28, 2004

Secretary Colin L. Powell NBC Today Show Matt Lauer

Interview on NBC's Today Show With Matt Lauer

Secretary Colin L. Powell Washington, DC December 28, 2004 (7:08 a.m. EST)

MR. LAUER: Secretary Powell, good morning to you.

SECRETARY POWELL: Good morning, Matt. How are you?

MR. LAUER: I'm fine, thanks, but shaking my head at the numbers we're getting this morning, some 40,000 people now reported dead as a result of this Tsunami in South Asia over the weekend. I know the U.S. has pledged some $15 million in initial relief. Where do we go from here? What can we do?

SECRETARY POWELL: What we have to do, Matt, is make a careful assessment of what is needed. We have given $4 million right away to the International Federation of the Red Cross, the Red Crescent, another $10 million, which with other funds, brings it up to 15. We've dispatched nine patrol planes to the region from our Pacific Command and another dozen C-130s from our Pacific Command are hauling in supplies. We have disaster relief teams that are on the way in and we'll add to those teams as many people as necessary to make an assessment.

We'll also have to see what each country can do for itself and make sure that we apply the aid in those places where it is most desperately needed. Some countries, larger countries, are able to handle it better than smaller countries or countries that are less developed. Sri Lanka is the one that is hardest hit, is uppermost in my mind.

MR. LAUER: What direct requests have you received from the individual countries to date?

SECRETARY POWELL: Yeah, we've received direct requests from Sri Lanka, and we've received general requests from the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. I've been in touch with Secretary General Kofi Annan, and I've been in touch with every one of the foreign ministers of the affected countries to let them know that they should make their requests known to our embassies so that we can respond.

MR. LAUER: The numbers I'm hearing, Secretary Powell, is this is going to cost billions -- you know, obviously, the human toll, most important right now -- but billions and billions of dollars. So is the United States prepared to go into that realm? Are we prepared to get into the billion dollar range?

SECRETARY POWELL: I can't answer that yet, Matt. We'll have to wait and see what the needs actually are. But clearly, the United States will be a major contributor to this international effort. And, yes, it will run into the billions of dollars. Villages have been wiped out, schools wiped out, business places wiped out, but it will take a while to make sure we have a good understanding of what the needs are.

MR. LAUER: What about organizations? I mean, so often after a major tragedy like this, relief pours in from so many different areas but it's not efficiently handled and so the people at most need don't get the benefit. Can we, can the U.S., contribute organizational expertise?

SECRETARY POWELL: Yes, we can. That's why we have sent in our disaster response teams, who have a great deal of experience in these kinds of catastrophes. And that's why the United Nations has organized itself so that there is a single point of contact up in the United Nations; and of course, each country is responsible for its own relief efforts and we are in touch with the relief agencies in those countries.

MR. LAUER: And I want to tell our viewers that at the end of this segment, Secretary Powell, I'm going to put a phone number up at the State Department, and also the website address of the State Department --

SECRETARY POWELL: Thank you.

MR. LAUER: -- because so many people in this country have loved ones, relatives living in the impacted countries and want to get them information.

Let me turn to another subject in the news, the approaching elections in Iraq, now about 30 days away or so. And as you know, the insurgents in that country have stepped up their attacks and they seem to be targeting, I guess, targets that have something to do with the voting process. As a result, many of the Sunni Muslims in that country have said they'll sit this one out. Aren't we breaking in some ways one of the most basic promises we made to the Iraqi people a year and a half or so ago, that we would provide an atmosphere and security under which they could hold free elections?

SECRETARY POWELL: We're not breaking a promise. We're hard at work trying to make sure that that promise comes true. We're facing a determined insurgency led by people who don't want elections. They don't want to see the Iraqi people decide who their leaders are going to be. They want to go back to the past and we're not going to let that happen. And so, we're going to fight this insurgency with coalition forces, and increasingly with Iraqi military and police forces that are being built up under the leadership of General Petraeus.

Most of the country will be able to participate in the election, but the Sunni areas, where the insurgency is raging -- and that's where we have to focus our efforts -- most Iraqis, even in the Sunni areas, want to vote. They want to have a say in who their leaders are going to be. And that's why election officials are out working, polling places are being set up, registration is taking place.

And so, we're going to keep driving ahead at the request of the President of the Iraqi Interim Government and the prime minister, Prime Minister Allawi, to do everything we can to have this election on the 30th of June -- of January.

MR. LAUER: How do we figure it out though? If the elections take place and we see that the 20 percent of the Sunni population didn't receive what we probably guess would be the appropriate numbers of seats in the National Assembly, how do we know if it's because of fraud, fear or apathy?

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, let's not prejudge the outcome. Let's wait and see what happens on the 30th of January. Let's give people the opportunity to vote. And we have 107 political entities who have, in one way or another, indicated desire to be a part of this process, and those voting lists have been prepared and the people will have a chance to make their choice among these 107 entities. And one entity has dropped out. I hope it will come back in before election day comes, and then we'll see where we are.

What we want is a government that is representative. We know that it will have a Shia majority. That's the majority of the population. One would expect that. But the Transitional Administrative Law that was written provides protections for the minorities -- the Sunnis and the Kurds and others, the smaller segments of the populations -- so that they will have a chance to participate in the National Assembly, the Transitional National Assembly.

MR. LAUER: Right.

SECRETARY POWELL: And we want a representative government.

MR. LAUER: In closing, you're going to be leaving your post at the State Department in the not-too-distant future. Some people are saying that as you leave, the last dissenting voice will leave this Administration. Two real quick parts of this: First of all, how much did your dissenting opinions contribute to your decision to leave the position of Secretary of State? And are you worried that in your absence there will be what some call a "group think" on major and serious policy issues?

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, I wouldn't characterize my views as being that of a dissenting voice. For the past four years, I worked closely with President Bush and the other members of this Administration to do many things in foreign policy where we all were in complete agreement, the overthrow of two dictatorships in Afghanistan and in Iraq.

I pressed to see if we could deal with the Iraq problem diplomatically, but recognizing that it might require force, and when force was decided upon I was a full participant in that decision and recognized what had to be done. We succeeded in helping India and Pakistan from getting into a war. We have created superb relations with the Chinese and we have good relations with Russia. We have increased foreign assistance by a significant amount.

So rather than being the dissenting voice, I was a full partner in this effort. Now that also included when I had disagreements or when I had a point of view that I wanted to be -- make sure that the President understood -- I make that point of view known.

MR. LAUER: And are you comfortable with the mix of opinions that there will be enough strong voices to do the same in your absence?

SECRETARY POWELL: I know the people who are taking over. They are all people of skills, particularly Dr. Rice, and I'm confident that her voice will be heard.

MR. LAUER: Well, let me just say, if we don't get a chance to speak before you leave your post, it's been a pleasure dealing with you over these last four years.

SECRETARY POWELL: Thank you very much, Matt. Happy New Year.

MR. LAUER: And thank you to you. And I want to put up that phone number right now for people who have loved ones and want more information on what's happened in South Asia. The number if 1-888-407-4747 or go to travel.state.gov on the internet.

Secretary Powell, thanks again.
2004/1403 [End]

Secretary Colin L. Powell CBS Early Show Harry Smith

Interview on CBS's Early Show With Harry Smith

Secretary Colin L. Powell Washington, DC December 28, 2004 (7:08 a.m. EST)

MR. SMITH: The United States is sending supplies, disaster specialists and an initial $15 million in aid. Secretary of State Colin Powell made that announcement yesterday. Mr. Secretary, thanks for joining us this morning.

SECRETARY POWELL: Thank you, Harry. Good morning.

MR. SMITH: Well, we heard that number, $15 million, yesterday. I honestly thought that doesn't seem like very much money from the United States of America.

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, it's a start, Harry. In addition to the $15 million, we have nine P-3 reconnaissance planes on the way, another dozen C-130s are on the way with relief supplies, and so we'll be making an assessment as the days go by to see what the need really is and we'll adjust our plans accordingly. But this was an initial infusion of money to join the international relief effort.

MR. SMITH: Does it seem like there will be more forthcoming?

SECRETARY POWELL: I think a lot more aid is going to be needed. The extent of this catastrophe is really not yet fully known. What makes it such a unique event is the number of countries that were involved. I mean, from an earthquake just off the coast of Sumatra, this tsunami went across the Indian Ocean and hit the subcontinent and then continued across and hit the west -- the east coast of Africa. So the extent of damage is quite significant and the loss of life still is not yet fully tallied up. So I think more aid will be required from the international community, but we've got to get started, and that's what we're doing now.

MR. SMITH: There's a lot to talk about this morning. There's a new tape purportedly by Usama bin Laden, who's backing Zarqawi, the terrorist leader in Iraq, also calling for a boycott of the elections next month in Iraq.

Do you want to respond to that?

SECRETARY POWELL: Yeah, of course, they'll call for a boycott. The last thing they want to see is the Iraqi people stepping forward and deciding who would be their leaders. They don't want democracy. They want tyranny. They want to go back to the past of a Saddam Hussein type regime, and that's not going to happen. The Iraqi people want to vote for their leaders and we're moving forward to give them that opportunity on the 30th of January.

MR. SMITH: The security situation in Iraq is tenuous, at best. The Iraqi Islamist Party -- that's a big Sunni party -- backed out of the elections yesterday, said they're not boycotting but they're backing out of the elections, citing security as an example. We saw a terrorist attack at our own base in Mosul just a week ago.

Is there sufficient security in this country for an election to take place?

SECRETARY POWELL: Well, in most of the country, yes, there is sufficient security for elections to take place. In the Sunni areas, the security isn't what we would like it to be, and that's what we're working on. That's what the coalition troops are working on and the Iraqi forces and Iraqi police forces are working on. And we hope that by the end of January people will feel secure enough, even in the Sunni areas, to step forward and vote.

I know that that one party said that they would not be participating, but let's wait and see. They may be back in the game before this is all over.

I think it's important for us not to step aside from the requirement in the UN resolution for this election to take place on the 30th of January. And the Iraqi people have clearly indicated they want an election, and the President and Prime Minister of the Iraqi Interim Government are determined to make that happen.

MR. SMITH: We've had these benchmarks before when Iraq became sovereign, now we have an election benchmark, and always there was there hope that soon thereafter things would get better in Iraq. Can you promise, or at least believe, that things will improve after the election at the end of January?

SECRETARY POWELL: What I can say is that after the election at the end of January you will have a government that is representative of the Iraqi people. They will have voted for that government. The insurgency will not end. These insurgents are determined to have no representative government. They want to go back to a tyranny. And so the insurgency will continue and the insurgency will have to be defeated by coalition forces, but increasingly the insurgency will be defeated and brought under control, if not completely defeated, by Iraqi forces that we are building up as rapidly as we can under the distinguished leadership of General Petraeus.

MR. SMITH: Mr. Secretary, we thank you for your time this morning.

SECRETARY POWELL: Thank you, Harry.
2004/1402 [End] Released on December 28, 2004

Secretary Colin L. Powell ABC Good Morning America Christopher Cuomo

Interview on ABC's Good Morning America With Christopher Cuomo

Secretary Colin L. Powell Washington, DC December 28, 2004 (7:07 a.m. EST)

MR. CUOMO: What is the latest information about the status of Americans in the area? And how much is the U.S. doing to help?

SECRETARY POWELL: As best we know right now, 11 Americans have lost their lives, but there are still hundreds of Americans who are unaccounted for and we're doing everything we can to locate them and determine their status. The United States made an initial contribution of some $15 million, $4 million right away to the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, and another $10 million of assistance to non-governmental and other organizations. In addition, our military authorities in Hawaii have launched nine patrol planes, and another dozen or so C-130s carrying relief supplies.

We'll make an assessment as the days go by to see what else may be needed from us. This is a massive catastrophe. So many countries were struck by this Tsunami. It's rather unprecedented and it will take us a while to make a careful assessment of what is needed, and then we will work with the international community to provide what is needed.

MR. CUOMO: That said, the top United Nations' relief official has said that rich countries like the United States are stingy. You said, we'll do everything we can. Given how rich we are, can't we do more than the few million we have put up so far? Shouldn't we do more?

SECRETARY POWELL: We will do more. I wish that comment hadn't been made. I mean, the world is now responding to this catastrophe. The United States has given more aid in the last four years than any other nation or combination of nations in the world. We had a significant increase in our development assistance and other kinds of assistance and we will do more, but we're still getting an assessment of what is needed and it will take time for that assessment to be made, to see what nations can do for themselves, to see what the specific needs are, and then we'll respond to those needs.

MR. CUOMO: Moving on to another subject, Mr. Secretary. You're aware that many in Iraq believe that January 30th is simply too soon to hold an election, such a security-sensitive event. That being the case, does the Administration have a plan in place if the election is disrupted?

SECRETARY POWELL: Many people might believe that, but I believe most people feel that it is time to have this election. It is an election that is mandated by the United Nations Security Council resolution that set this up. The President and the Prime Minister of the interim government of Iraq want to move forward, and I think people want to have an elected government.

And so, there are security concerns, principally, in the Sunni areas. Most of the country, I think, is ready for an election. What we have to do is concentrate our coalition forces and Iraqi forces, police forces, on the Sunni part of the country in order to create conditions that will allow people to feel comfortable in coming out and registering and participating in the vote.

We're also talking to our friends in the region, the neighboring countries, for them to talk to Sunni leaders and encourage Sunni leaders to get their people to come out and vote, even if there is an element of danger associated with it. This is not the time to let the tyrants and the terrorists take us back to the past, to the days of a Saddam Hussein-type regime. The people of Iraq want their own freely elected government.

MR. CUOMO: Mr. Secretary, one of New York's favorite sons is going to push the button that brings down the big ball right here in Times Square on New Year's Eve. At once, you'll be beginning a new year and ending an era, effectively, as Secretary. As you've said, you plan to leave early next year. Any idea what your emotions will be that night?

SECRETARY POWELL: I've never been to Times Square on New Year's Eve, even though I'm a born and raised New Yorker, and I cannot tell you how honored I am to have been selected to do this and it's going to be so good to be home with millions of people celebrating a new year, millions of people who believe in their city, who believe in their country. And I think I'm just going to be a kid again on New Year's Eve, as I push that button.

MR. CUOMO: Thank you very much for coming on the show and have a Happy New Year, Mr. Secretary.

SECRETARY POWELL: Same to you, Chris.
2004/1405 [End] Released on December 28, 2004

DoD Identifies Navy Casualty Mosul dining facility

U.S. Department of DefenseOffice of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release On the Web: defenselink.mil/releases/ Media contact: Navy Public Affairs -(703) 697-5342 Public contact: dod.mil/faq/comment or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1 No. 1321-04 IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 27, 2004

DoD Identifies Navy Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Chief Joel Egan Baldwin, 37, of Arlington, Va., died in Mosul, Iraq on Dec. 21, when the dining facility was attacked.

Baldwin was assigned to Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 77, Gulfport, Miss.

For further information related to this release, contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342.

Secretary Mineta Launches Holiday Air Travel Disruption Investigation

DOT 215-04 December 27, 2004 Contact: Sarah Echols Tel.: (202) 366-4570

Secretary Mineta Launches Holiday Air Travel Disruption Investigation

U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta today asked the agency’s Inspector General to join with the Department’s Office of Aviation and International Affairs and Office of General Counsel to investigate travel disruptions that impacted US Airways and Comair passengers over the 2004 holiday travel weekend.

The Secretary stressed, “It is important that the Department and the traveling public understand what happened, why it happened, and whether the carriers properly planned for the holiday travel period and responded appropriately to consumer needs in the aftermath.” END

A copy of the Secretary’s memorandum to the Inspector General is available in PDF form on the U.S. Department of Transportation website.

Powell South Asia Earthquake and Tsunami

Briefing With Assistant Administrator for United States Agency for International Development Ed Fox. FULL STREAMING VIDEO from c-span

powell

Secretary Colin L. Powell Washington, DC December 27, 2004 (12:30 p.m. EST) SECRETARY POWELL: Well, good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I wanted to give you an update on the situation in South Asia as a result of the tsunami and the loss of life that was so tragic.

I have just been on the phone a few moments ago with President Bush, where he has been following this situation very closely from Crawford, and as he indicated in the statement that the White House issued yesterday and he has also now written letters to the heads of state of the countries affected, he wants to extend his deepest condolences to the families of those who were lost. This is, indeed, an international tragedy and we're going to do everything we can to assist the nations that have been affected in dealing with this tragedy.

While the loss of any single life is precious, I would also like to take this opportunity to extend particular condolences for the tragic death of Khun Bhumi Jensen, who is the son of Princess Ubolratana and grandson of His Majesty King Bhumipol of Thailand. We extend condolences to the royal family.

The United States has been following this situation from the very beginning. Our embassies are working in the affected areas to assist contacting families and others, U.S. citizens who are unaccounted for. At the moment, we know of eight Americans who have died and there are several hundred who are not accounted for yet. It just means we haven't been able to reach out and get contact with them. It does not imply that they are necessarily injured or in any way a casualty.

For family members seeking information about one of their loved ones, they can contact the hotline number that we have, 1-888-407-4747. You can also go to the State Department website to get information about each of the countries involved, and that's state.gov.

Our ambassadors in Sri Lanka, the Maldives, India and Indonesia have provided a total of $400,000 in immediate assistance and we are in discussions with the International Committee of the Red Cross about providing $4 million in the course of the day of the $6.6 million appeal that they have made. We are also examining what other assets might be needed and we'll do everything we can to help.

The United States Pacific Command is also involved in this, of course. They have dispatched some P3 patrol aircraft to the region and the Pacific fleet is examining what else they might be able to do to help in this situation. I have also talked in the course of the last 18 hours to my counterparts in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, India and Malaysia, to reinforce our offers of assistance.

USAID and other elements of the United States Government have been deeply involved. What I'd like to do now, to give you more details with respect to the support we are providing, is to introduce Mr. Ed Fox, who is the Assistant Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development. He'll give you some details and then I will return to the podium for questions and one or two other issues.

Ed. FULL TEXT Powell South Asia Earthquake and Tsunami

NOAA INDONESIAN TSUNAMI

tsunami epicenter map

Dec. 26, 2004 — NOAA scientists acted quickly when a warning was issued about the powerful undersea earthquake in the Indian Ocean that triggered a devastating tsunami. The NOAA Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii issued an information bulletin at 8:14 p.m. EST Saturday, indicating that a magnitude 8.0 earthquake had occurred off the west coast of Northern Sumatra.

Because the earthquake, reported to be one of the strongest in the world in the past 40 years, occurred in the Indian Ocean, not the Pacific, there was no threat of a tsunami to the West Coast of North America. (Click NOAA image for larger view of Indonesia tsunami epicenter map. Click here for high resolution version, which is a large file. Please credit “NOAA.”)

Within a few hours of learning of the tsunamis that killed thousands in Indonesia Saturday night, Vasily Titov, associate director of the Tsunami Inundation Mapping Efforts, or TIME, at the NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory in Seattle, Wash., and his counterpart in Japan had created preliminary model estimates of the event.

(NOAA animation of Indonesia tsunami. Click here for QuickTime tsunami epicenter movie. Please credit "NOAA.)

A tsunami is a series of ocean waves generated by any rapid large-scale disturbance of the sea water. Most tsunamis are generated by earthquakes, but they may also be caused by volcanic eruptions, landslides, undersea slumps or meteor impacts.

In 1963 the term "tsunami" was adopted internationally to describe this natural phenomenon. A Japanese word, it is the combination of the characters tsu (harbor) and nami (wave). They are often mistakenly called “tidal waves.” However, the tides have nothing to do with the formation of tsunamis.

Source: NOAA

RELATED

• NOAA AND THE INDIAN OCEAN TSUNAMI - The U.S. has demonstrated the effectiveness of its warning system within the Pacific region. It has also demonstrated that the warning system can provide initial earthquake information to other nations and is most willing to share that information with all concerned.

Bush Bay of Bengal Earthquake and Tsunami

Statement on Bay of Bengal Earthquake and Tsunami

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary December 26, 2004

On behalf of the American people, the President expresses his sincere condolences for the terrible loss of life and suffering caused by the earthquake and subsequent tsunamis in the region of the Bay of Bengal.

The United States stands ready to offer all appropriate assistance to those nations most affected including Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Thailand, and Indonesia, as well as the other countries impacted. Already relief is flowing to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. We will work with the affected governments, the United Nations, non-governmental organizations, and other concerned states and organizations to support the relief and response to this terrible tragedy.

Again, we extend our sincere condolences to all the people of the region at this time of suffering. ###

DoD Identifies Army Casualties Dec. 21 in Mosul, Iraq

Death comes to all But great achievements raise a monument Which shall endure until the sun grows old. George Fabricius, 'In Praise of Georgius Agricola'

U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) No. 1317-04 IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 24, 2004

On the Web: defenselink.mil/releases/ Media contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000

Public contact: dod.mil/faq/comment or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1

DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of thirteen soldiers supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Dec. 21 in Mosul, Iraq, when their dining facility was attacked. Killed were:

Capt. William W. Jacobsen Jr., 31, of Charlotte, N.C. Jacobsen was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.

Sgt. Maj. Robert D. O'Dell, 38, of Manassas, Va. O'Dell was assigned to the United States Army Intelligence & Security Command, Fort Belvoir, Va.

Sgt. 1st Class Paul D. Karpowich, 30, of Bridgeport, Pa. Karpowich was assigned to the Army Reserve's 2nd Battalion, 390th Infantry Regiment, Webster, N.Y.

Staff Sgt. Julian S. Melo, 47, of Brooklyn, N.Y. Melo was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.

Staff Sgt. Darren D. VanKomen, 33, of Bluefield, W.Va. VanKomen was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.

Staff Sgt. Robert S. Johnson, 23, of Castro Valley, Calif. Johnson was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.

Sgt. Lynn R. Poulin Sr., 47, of Freedom, Maine. Poulin was assigned to the Army National Guard's 133rd Engineer Battalion, Belfast, Maine.

Spc. Jonathan Castro, 21, of Corona, Calif. Castro was assigned to the 73rd Engineer Company, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.

Spc. Thomas J. Dostie, 20, of Sommerville, Maine. Dostie was assigned to the Army National Guard's 133rd Engineer Battalion, Portland, Maine.

Spc. Cory M. Hewitt, 26, of Stewart, Tenn. Hewitt was assigned to the 705th Ordnance Company, Fort Polk, La.

Spc. Nicholas C. Mason, 20, of King George, Va. Mason was assigned to the Army National Guard's 276th Engineer Battalion, West Point, Va.

Spc. David A. Ruhren, 20, of Stafford, Va. Ruhren was assigned to the Army National Guard's 276th Engineer Battalion, West Point, Va.

Pfc. Lionel Ayro, 22, of Jeanerette, La. Ayro was assigned to the 73rd Engineer Company, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Belarus Mikhail Marinich Anatoliy Lebedko

Great spirits have always encountered opposition from mediocre minds. The mediocre mind is incapable of understanding the man who refuses to bow blindly to conventional prejudices and chooses instead to express his opinions courageously and honestly.
Albert Einstein, quoted in New York Times, March 13, 1940US (German-born) physicist (1879 - 1955)

Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC December 23, 2004

Prosecution of Belarusian Opposition Figure Mikhail Marinich

On December 23, Mikhail Marinich, Belarus opposition political figure, went on trial in Minsk after being held for over 7 months on politically motivated charges. Belarusian authorities have accused Ambassador Marinich of, among other things, theft of equipment that the U.S. Government provided to his non-governmental organization "Business Initiative." The equipment has at all times remained property of the U.S., and the U.S. makes no claims against Ambassador Marinich or his organization regarding disposition of this equipment.

It is clear that the Belarus Government is prosecuting Ambassador Marinich for his political views. The current regime regrettably has done this to many other prominent Belarus opposition figures, including, most recently, Anatoliy Lebedko, who was charged with slander. We strongly condemn the flagrant abuse of the Belarus court system to persecute citizens for reason of their political beliefs. We call on the Belarusian Government to respect human and legal rights and promptly release Ambassador Marinich and other political figures who have been detained, charged and convicted on spurious charges.

2004/1399 [End]

bush radio address 12/04/25 full audio, text transcript

For Immediate Release December 25, 2004

President's Radio Address

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. On this Christmas day, as families across the nation gather in our homes to celebrate, Laura and I extend to all Americans our best wishes for the holidays. We hope this Christmas is a time of joy and peace for each of you, and we hope it offers you a chance for rest and reflection as you look forward to the new year ahead.

The Christmas season fills our hearts with gratitude for the many blessings in our lives. And with those blessings comes a responsibility to reach out to others. Many of our fellow Americans still suffer from the effects of illness or poverty, others fight cruel addictions, or cope with division in their families, or grieve the loss of a loved one.

Christmastime reminds each of us that we have a duty to our fellow citizens, that we are called to love our neighbor just as we would like to be loved ourselves. By volunteering our time and talents where they are needed most, we help heal the sick, comfort those who suffer, and bring hope to those who despair, one heart and one soul at a time.

During the holidays, we also keep in our thoughts and prayers the men and women of our Armed Forces, especially those far from home, separated from family and friends by the call of duty. In Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere, these skilled and courageous Americans are fighting the enemies of freedom and protecting our country from danger. By bringing liberty to the oppressed, our troops are helping to win the war on terror, and they are defending the freedom and security of us all. They and their families are making many sacrifices for our nation, and for that, all Americans are deeply grateful.

The times we live in have brought many challenges to our country. And at such times, the story of Christmas brings special comfort and confidence. For 2000 years, Christmas has proclaimed a message of hope: the patient hope of men and women across centuries who listened to the words of prophets and lived in joyful expectation, the hope of Mary who welcomed God's plan with great faith, and the hope of Wise Men who set out on a long journey, guided only by a promise traced in the stars.

Christmas reminds us that the grandest purposes of God can be found in the humblest places, and it gives us hope that all the love and gifts that come to us in this life are the signs and symbols of an even greater love and gift that came on a holy night.

Thank you for listening, and Merry Christmas. END

barney whitehouse christmas

Where in the White House is Miss Beazley?

barney

Barney's Biography Breed: Scottish Terrier Birthday September 30, 2000 in New Jersey Address 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C.

Owners President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush Mother Coors, a Scottish Terrier owned by former Environmental Protection Agency Director Christine Todd Whitman. Father Kelly of Champion Motherwell Stormwarning.

barney 2

Other:
Barney is a much-loved First Family member. Barney loves to play with his soccer ball, his golf ball and most recently has become a fan of playing horseshoes. There are numerous web sites across the Internet devoted to Barney. He has been a part of four "films" on the White House web site: Barney Cam, Barney Cam II: Barney Reloaded, Barney and Spot's Winter Wonderland, and Barney Cam: Where in the White House is Miss Beazley?

How Does NORAD Track Santa?

tracking santa

NORAD uses four high-tech systems to track Santa - radar, satellites, Santa Cams and jet fighter aircraft.

It all starts with the NORAD radar system called the North Warning System. This powerful radar system has 47 installations strung across Canada's North and Alaska. NORAD makes a point of checking the radar closely for indications of Santa Claus leaving the North Pole on Christmas Eve.

santa tracking

The moment our radar tells us that Santa has lifted off, we begin to use the same satellites that we use in providing warning of possible missile launches aimed at North America. These satellites are located in a geo-synchronous orbit (that's a cool phrase meaning that the satellite is always fixed over the same spot on the Earth) at 22,300 miles above the Earth. The satellites have infrared sensors, meaning they can see heat. When a rocket or missile is launched, a tremendous amount of heat is produced - enough for the satellites to see them. Rudolph's nose gives off an infrared signature similar to a missile launch. The satellites can detect Rudolph's bright red nose with practically no problem. With so many years of experience, NORAD has become good at tracking aircraft entering North America, detecting worldwide missile launches and tracking the progress of Santa, thanks to Rudolph. It is important to note, however, that our scientists have tried to determine the chemical process that occurs that creates the heat that is generated by Rudolph's nose but they have not been able to thus far.

The third system we use is the Santa Cam. We began using it in 1998 - the year we put our Santa Tracking program on the Internet. NORAD Santa Cams are ultra-cool high-tech high-speed digital cameras that are pre-positioned at many places around the world. NORAD only uses these cameras once a year - Christmas Eve. We turn the cameras on about one hour before Santa enters a country then switch them off after we capture images of him and the Reindeer. We immediately download the images on to our web site for people around the world see. Santa Cams produce both video and still images.

The last system we use is the NORAD jet fighter. Canadian NORAD fighter pilots, flying the CF-18, take off out of Newfoundland to intercept and welcome Santa to North America. Then at numerous locations in Canada other CF-18 fighter pilots escort Santa, while in the United States American NORAD fighter pilots in either the F-15 or F-16 get the thrill of flying with Santa and the famous Reindeer Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph. About a dozen NORAD fighters in Canada and the United States are equipped with Santa Cams complete list of santa cams world wide

Presidential Christmas Message, 2004

Dear Lord, I've been asked, nay commanded, to thank Thee for the Christmas turkey before us... a turkey which was no doubt a lively, intelligent bird... a social being... capable of actual affection... nuzzling its young with almost human- like compassion. Anyway, it's dead and we're gonna eat it. Please give our respects to its family ... Berke Breathed, Bloom Country Babylon

For Immediate Release December 23, 2004 Presidential Christmas Message, 2004

For 2,000 years, Christmas has proclaimed a message of hope: the patient hope of men and women across centuries who listened to the words of prophets and lived in joyful expectation; the hope of Mary, who welcomed God's plan with great faith; and the hope of wise men, who set out on a long journey guided only by a slender promise traced in the stars. Christmas reminds us that the grandest purposes of God can be found in the humblest places. And it gives us hope that all the love and gifts that come to us in this life are the signs and symbols of an even greater love and gift that came on a holy night.

The Christmas season fills our hearts with gratitude for the many blessings in our lives. With those blessings comes a responsibility to reach out to others. Many of our fellow Americans still suffer from the effects of illness or poverty. Others fight cruel addictions, cope with division in their families, or grieve the loss of a loved one. Christmastime reminds each of us that we have a duty to love our neighbor just as we would like to be loved ourselves. By volunteering our time and talents where they are needed most, we help heal the sick, comfort those who suffer, and bring hope to those who despair.

During the holidays, we also keep in our thoughts and prayers the men and women of our Armed Forces -- especially those far from home, separated from family and friends by the call of duty. In Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere, these courageous Americans are fighting the enemies of freedom and protecting our country from danger. By bringing liberty to the oppressed, our troops are defending the freedom and security of us all. They and their families are making many sacrifices for our Nation, and all Americans are deeply grateful.

Laura joins me in wishing all Americans a Merry Christmas.

GEORGE W. BUSH ###

Secretary Rumsfeld Holiday Visit to Iraq

Rumsfeld Cheers U.S. Troops During Surprise Iraq Visit
Source: Gerry J. Gilmore American Forces Press Service
BAGHDAD, Dec. 24, 2004 – During a surprise trip to Iraq Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld today shared Christmas-Eve cheer with U.S. troops serving here and in the cities of Mosul, Tikrit and Fallujah.

Rumsfeld shared Christmas-Eve cheer with U.S. troops serving in Baghdad and in the cities of Mosul, Tikrit and Fallujah. .

The trip had been planned for some time, Rumsfeld told traveling press members on his C-17 plane over the Atlantic Ocean en route to Iraq. The secretary noted he'd not only meet with U.S. troops during the trip, but would also discuss the current military situation in Iraq with senior Iraqi and U.S. leaders.

Rumsfeld also noted that progress of the Iraqi security forces would be discussed, as well as preparations for nationwide Iraqi elections slated for January.

"This is a tough situation in Iraq," Rumsfeld said to the Marines in Fallujah. Yet, he predicted, the Marines and other U.S. service members will be proud of their accomplishments after Iraqis take control of their destiny and become a free, democratic nation.

Afterward, Rumsfeld's helicopter took him to Baghdad, where he attended a meeting with Army Gen. George W. Casey Jr., the U.S. commander of multinational forces in Iraq, and Metz. The secretary also met with interim Iraqi President Ghazi Al-Yawar.

The secretary then met with wounded troops in Baghdad at the 31st Combat Surgical Hospital. Later, he flew north of Baghdad to visit with troops at Camp Victory North.

Rumsfeld told reporters during the flight to Iraq that Iraqis who'd taken positions in the interim government and security forces had "guts," given the instances of apparent insurgent intimidation of such officials in some parts of the country.

And any attempted intimidation of law-abiding Iraqis, Rumsfeld pointed out, "is a factor that has to be considered in watching how this thing tips."

Donald H. Rumsfeld

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld (center) meets with Army Pfc. Anthony Abas (right) and Spc. Donald Arminio (left) from the 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, at Mosul, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-082

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld (left) shares a laugh with Army Capts. Duane Limpert (2nd from left) and Andy Allen (right) of the 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, at Mosul, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

Donald H. Rumsfeld 2

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-092

Donald H. Rumsfeld 3

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld talks to soldiers of the Army's 1st Infantry Division Headquarters, in Tikrit, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-148

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld talks to soldiers of the Army's 1st Infantry Division Headquarters, in Tikrit, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

Donald H. Rumsfeld 4

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-198

Donald H. Rumsfeld 5

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld greets soldiers from the Army's 1st Infantry Division Headquarters, in Tikrit, Iraq, on Dec. 24. 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-215

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld (center) meets with Marines from the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force while at the Camp Fallujah Dining Facility in Fallujah, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

Donald H. Rumsfeld 6

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-252

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Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld shares a meal with Marines from the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force at the Camp Fallujah Dining Facility in Fallujah, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-323

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld meets Iraqi Interim Government President Ghazi Al-Yawar at the Iraqi Interim Government Building in Baghdad, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

Rumsfeld 8

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-382

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Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld meets with soldiers from the 67th Combat Surgical Hospital at Mosul Airfield, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-013

Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld shakes hands with a soldier from the Army's 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division at Mosul, Iraq, on Dec. 24, 2004. Rumsfeld is in Iraq to meet with troops and thank them for their service and their sacrifice during this holiday season.

Rumsfeld 10

DoD photo by Master Sgt. James M. Bowman, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
Photo by: MSGT JAMES M. BOWMAN, 1ST COMBAT CAMERA SQUADRON
Record ID No. (VIRIN): 041224-F-5586B-038

Statement on House and Senate Resolutions

The government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.
Ronald Reagan 40th president of US (1911 - 2004)

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary December 23, 2004

H.R. 530, which makes Tanya Andrea Goudeau eligible for lawful permanent residence and considered to have satisfied the requirements applicable to adopted children born outside the United States for automatic acquisition of citizenship;

H.R. 2457, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Preservation and Education Act, which authorizes funds for an educational center for the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument;

H.R. 2619, the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge Expansion Act of 2004," which authorizes the expansion of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on the island of Kauai, Hawaii;

H.R. 3632, the Intellectual Property Protection and Courts Amendments Act of 2004, which prevents and punishes counterfeiting of copyrighted copies and phonorecords;

H.R. 3785, which directs the exchange of certain land in the Everglades National Park, Florida;

H.R. 3818, the Microenterprise Results and Accountability Act of 2004, which amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to improve the results and accountability of microenterprise development assistance programs;

H.R. 4027, which authorizes the Commerce Department to make certain NOAA-administered real Property in Florida available to the University of Miami for development of a Marine Life Science Center;

H.R. 4116, the American Bald Eagle Recovery and National Emblem Commemorative Coin Act, which requires the Department of the Treasury to mint and issue coins in commemoration of the recovery of the bald eagle and the 35th anniversary of the enactment of the Endangered Species Act, and provides support to the American Eagle Foundation of Tennessee through surcharges on the coins;

H.R. 4548, the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005," which authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 2005 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System;

H.R. 4569, which requires the Department of Agriculture to develop a national plan for the control and management of the tree disease Sudden Oak Death;

H.R. 4657, the District of Columbia Retirement Protection Improvement Act of 2004, which amends the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to improve the administration of Federal pension benefit payments for District of Columbia teachers, police officers, and fire fighters;

H.R. 5204, which modifies current law concerning payments to children's hospitals for graduate medical residency training programs;

H.R. 5363, which authorizes a cost-of-living salary adjustment for the Federal Judiciary for 2005;

H.R. 5382, the Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004," which promotes the development of the emerging commercial human space flight industry;

H.R. 5394, which amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the taxation of arrow components;

H.R. 5419, which amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act to facilitate the reallocation of spectrum from governmental to commercial users; to improve, enhance, and promote the Nation's homeland security, public safety, and citizen activated emergency response capabilities through the use of enhanced 911 services, to further upgrade Public Safety Answering Point capabilities and related functions in receiving E-911 calls, and to support in the construction and operation of a ubiquitous and reliable citizen activated system; and to provide that funds received as universal service contributions under section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 and the universal service support programs established pursuant thereto are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act, for a period of time;

S. 1301, the Video Voyeurism Prevention Act of 2004," which prohibits video voyeurism in the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States;

S. 2657, the Federal Employee Dental and Vision Benefits Enhancement Act of 2004," which requires the Office of Personnel Management to establish supplemental dental and vision benefits programs for Federal employees, annuitants, and their dependents;

S. 2781, the Comprehensive Peace in Sudan Act of 2004," which expresses the sense of the Congress regarding the conflict in Darfur, Sudan, to provide assistance for the crisis in Darfur and for comprehensive peace in Sudan;

S. 2856, which limits the transfer of certain Commodity Credit Corporation funds between conservation programs for technical assistance for the programs. ###