Rolling Thunder Tribute to Veterans

Riders Gather for Rolling Thunder Tribute to Veterans By K.L. Vantrtan American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 29, 2005 – The early morning sun glistened off the Vietnam veteran pins on Paul Sirks' blue denim jacket as he waited for the Metro at the New Carrollton, Md., station this morning.

	Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers (front), chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife, Mary Jo, head toward the Pentagon to join thousands of military veterans taking part in Rolling Thunder 2005.

The annual motorcycle rally pays tribute to the nation's fallen and missing servicemembers. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Miles D. Cullen, USAF (Click photo for screen-resolution image); high-resolution image available. .

The 20-year Army veteran, who served in Vietnam during 1965, 1966 and "a little bit of '67," and his friend Diana Plummer, who also sported a blue denim jacket with Vietnam pins and American flags, were on their way to support those riding in the "Rolling Thunder" tribute in Washington.

Sirks and Plummer are members of the Harley Owners Group Chapter in Annapolis, Md. Originally from Ohio, this is the third year Sirks and Plummer have participated in Rolling Thunder, which pays tribute to those killed in Vietnam and remembers those missing from all conflicts. They said they participated in last year's Rolling Thunder but opted to watch from the sidelines this year. Their chapter will have about 400 riding from the Pentagon across the Memorial Bridge to the National Mall's Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

"It feels good to be part of the ride," said Sirks, who voluntarily enlisted in the Army. "There's nothing like it. But, you don't get to see all the bikes."

Plummer said she sees the changes in her friend's face as the day progresses.

"He's lucky to be here," she said, referring to wounds that earned Sirks three Purple Heart medals.

Sirks' eyes teared as he talked about the friendships that combat creates.

"Some came back; some didn't. I'll see them today," he said as he wiped his eyes.

The Army veteran said patriotism is important and that the big story with Rolling Thunder is the people who travel across the country to participate. Each year since the rally was first held in 1988, the number of riders has grown. Last year, an estimated 400,000 motorcycles made the ride.

In preparation for his part in Rolling Thunder, Vietnam veteran Richard "Poncho" Pontious took his motor home from Las Vegas to Ohio and got a "couple of days rest" before heading to Ontario, Calif., to join up with a group that was riding from there. They started their journey May 18 and rode anywhere from 127 to 400 miles a day to reach the rallying point in the Pentagon's North Parking lot.

On days they didn't rack up the mileage, the bikers stopped at schools and told their stories to children. One such stop was in West Virginia. The children, said Pontious, had held events to raise money to pay for the bikers' lunches. "They put on a show (for us)," he added. "It was outstanding. I can't wait to do it again next year."

This year's ride took on a special significance for Pontious. Fellow rider and Vietnam veteran Tom "Ghost" Titus lost his son, Army Spc. Brandon T. Titus of the 10th Mountain Division, last August during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

This ride, said Pontious, was in memory of Brandon. "It's important to not let anyone forget all the men and women who give their lives for the freedoms in this country," added the Purple Heart recipient. "A lot of people paid the maximum and shouldn't be forgotten. There are people who will never know the cost.

"They just don't know," he said as talked about sharing a bunker with someone one minute and having that person gone the next. "We need to work our way to a war-free world," he added as he wiped tears from his eyes.

Although they're not veterans, Barb and Rich Smerkar of Greensburg, Pa., said they strongly support the efforts of Rolling Thunder and that's why they ride.

Barb said they normally don't take their bikes out when it's raining, but they braved a downpour at their home May 27 to get here on time to ride from the Pentagon to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. "It's just that important to us," she added.

"It's important to support the veterans and those serving today and appreciate what they do for us," said Rich. "We take a lot for granted."

"If not for them," added Barb, "we wouldn't be sitting here today."

Biography:Gen. Richard B. Myers, USAF

Isaiah Maas, 3, and his father, Asa Maas, wait for the ride from the Pentagon to the nation's capitol to begin May 29. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Cherie Thurlby, USAF Download screen-resolution Download high-resolution

A mass of motorcycles and people fill the Pentagon's North Parking lot May 29 as hundreds of thousands of riders from throughout the country gather for Rolling Thunder 2005. The annual ride, which began in 1988 pays tribute to those killed in Vietnam and remembers those missing from all conflicts. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Cherie Thurlby, USAF Download screen-resolution Download high-resolution

Secretary Rice Remarks At the Commonwealth Club

Opening a Path for the March of Freedom Secretary Rice (May 27): "Democracy, a belief in liberty, a desire to be free is as natural as breathing. It is not that it is easy, but when has it ever been easy? In our country, the great author of liberty, Thomas Jefferson, said, "The God who gave us life gave us liberty at the same time."

...the Founding Fathers gave us institutions that protected those great principles, we have been able to struggle and stumble toward a more perfect union, built in liberty, for the more than 200 years of our existence." [full text; audio ]

National Moment of Remembrance

AMERICANS ASKED TO UNITE IN REMEMBRANCE ON MEMORIAL DAY AT 3P.M. FOR THE NATIONAL MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE ESTABLISHED BY CONGRESS

Citizens to pause at 3 p.m. for a Moment to reflect on the sacrifices of our fallen

WASHINGTON, DC — On Memorial Day, May 30, at 3 p.m., local time, Major League Baseball games will stop, Amtrak train whistles will blast across the nation and hundreds of other nationwide participants will ask Americans to pause for the National Moment of Remembrance. Mandated by Congress and sponsored by The White House Commission on Remembrance, the Moment unites America in honor of those who died in service to our country.

Patriot Partners include: Department of Defense, VA Hospitals, NASCAR, Wal-Mart, National Grocers Association, the National Constitution Center, the Liberty Bell, the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore and the International Space Station.

The National Association for Music Education, Bugles Across America and The Getzen Instrument Company have arranged for volunteer buglers to play Taps for the Moment in places such as hospitals, retirement communities, national parks, thoroughbred racing, bus terminals, nursing homes and beaches. Echoes of remembrance will sound across America.

All citizens, wherever they are at 3 p.m., local time, alone or with family and friends are asked to pause for a Moment of reflection. The Moment is a time of remembrance for America’s fallen and to make a commitment to give something back to our country in their memory.

The idea of the National Moment of Remembrance was born when Carmella LaSpada, Director of the Commission met a group of schoolchildren touring Washington, D.C. and asked them what Memorial Day means. When they responded, "It's the day the pool opens," she became determined to reinforce the meaning of Memorial Day and ensure that those who died for our country are not forgotten. “We ask Americans to contemplate those things that bind us – our freedom and those who died to preserve it.” said LaSpada.

The goal is to put “Memorial” back in Memorial Day. A Gallup Poll revealed that only 28 percent of Americans know the meaning of this noble holiday. The Moment does not replace traditional Memorial Day events; rather, it is an act of national unity in which all Americans can participate.

The President, in his Memorial Day Proclamation, calls on the people of the United States to observe the National Moment of Remembrance.

The White House Commission on Remembrance was established by Congress to promote the values of Memorial Day by acts of remembrance throughout the year. The major initiative of the Commission is the National Moment of Remembrance. For additional storyline ideas or possible interviews, please contact us.

“The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart. . .should swell into a mighty chorus of remembrance, gratitude and rededication on this solemn occasion.”

Abraham Lincoln ###

The White House Commission on Remembrance 1750 New York Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20006 Office : (202) 783-4665 Fax : (202) 783-1168 commission@remember.gov CONTACT: Benjamin Barbin (202) 783-4665 remember.gov

Video:

• National Moment of Remembrance Video - On This Day (30 Sec.) (QuickTime-2.5 MB)
• National Moment of Remembrance Video - On This Day (1 Min.) (QuickTime-3.7 MB)
• National Moment of Remembrance Video - On This Day (2 Min.) (Quicktime-6.1 MB)

regarding over-fortified corn soy blend

USDA AND USAID INFORMATION ON OVER-FORTIFIED CORN SOY BLEND FOOD AID

WASHINGTON, May 27, 2005- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) today issued the following information regarding over-fortified corn soy blend food aid:

Each year the U.S. government through the USDA and the USAID contributes over 3 million metric tons of food to help feed the undernourished people of the developing world. This assistance includes emergency programs aimed at meeting the most immediate needs of food-insecure populations.

One of these products, a vitamin and mineral fortified mixture of corn and soy, known as Corn Soy Blend (CSB), has proven especially effective in saving the lives of some of the most vulnerable and malnourished populations, particularly children. The U.S. provides over 250,000 metric tons of CSB as food aid annually.

Recently, USDA and USAID learned that a small percentage of CSB from one supplier (approximately 1,100 metric tons) was over-fortified with iron during the production process.

Although experts advise that there is no serious health impact from consuming mineral over-fortified CSB, USAID and USDA have previously notified and instructed all partners in the field to immediately suspend distribution of the product until further testing is completed. The State Department notified embassies of the action being taken and advised them to inform foreign governments of the suspension.

The U.S. government has suspended all further purchases of CSB from the single supplier of the affected product until a thorough review of their production process can be completed. All CSB from this supplier within the U.S. is being held and tested.

The small amount of product from this supplier currently in transport has been diverted for further testing. Stocks already in country have been identified and set aside.

USDA anticipates initial testing results will be completed within the next 10 days. Once testing results are analyzed the U.S. government will continue to act decisively to ensure the health and safety of the beneficiaries of U.S. food aid.

SOURCE: USDA Release No. 0190.05 Contact: Office of Communication (202)720-4623

Fleet Week 2005

America Supports You: Fleet Week Starts With Reflection, Thanks in NYC
By Samantha L. Quigley, American Forces Press Service

NEW YORK, May 28, 2005 – Sailors and Marines on May 27 participated in a variety of events tied to Fleet Week 2005 here. The week sees New York open its doors to servicemembers.

Marine Staff Sgt. Johnny Riera hands an American flag to Joao Paulo, of Portugal, during Fleet Week 2005. Paulo and his family were in New York on vacation. Photo by Samantha L. Quigley (Click photo for screen-resolution image); high-resolution image available.

The morning included a World Trade Center memorial run and wreath laying. Runners included sailors, Marines and members of the Coast Guard.

An hour later, Rev. Bill Minson led a group of sailors, Marines and family members of those lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks in a prayer event. "We can ask for God's protection each and every day," he said.

The emotional event, marked with singing and thanks from the family members to the servicemembers present, ended in a prayer circle on site where the buildings once stood.

In the afternoon, Marines and sailors took to the streets of New York -- Broadway to be exact. At every corner along the storied street from Battery Park to Harlem, troops handed out small American flags and stickers highlighting the Defense Department's America Supports You program.

Many Marines were surprised by the reaction they received from the American people.

"They come up and thank you before we can even give them a flag," Marine Staff Sgt. Johnny Riera said. "We just want to thank them for their support."

The flags were a huge hit with the throngs walking the streets and could be seen sticking up from pockets, purses and even ponytails. Likewise, the stickers were being proudly worn.

"My dad was a Marine. It's a big thing in my family," Bridgett Gordon said. She added that she believes America should support our troops every day.

"We need to support our troops," she said. "I think it's a shame that it takes holidays for people to support our troops."

Even visitors from other countries got caught up in the spirit of the day. Carla Smale was visiting from London, England, but took part in thanking the U.S. servicemembers. Smale has family in Chicago and calls the U.S. "a second home."

"They're doing a great job," she said of the troops. "I couldn't do it."

The day wrapped up with the official United Service Organizations Fleet Week Kickoff at a Midtown Manhattan club. Approximately 500 servicemembers and their guests let loose. Food, beverages, music and karaoke got the party started and kept it going until nearly midnight.

For some, the kickoff party was a chance to come back to a city they hadn't seen for a while. Though things have changed in the past 20 years since, Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Gregg Bentz has visited the city last, he said he still finds it loud.

Bentz, an aviation warfare systems operator aboard the USS John F. Kennedy, and fellow sailor, Petty Officer 1st Class Moncrieff Antone, an operations specialist, participated in a ceremony at Ground Zero. "I'd been there when it was the World Trade Center," Bentz said.

Antone heaped praise on the USO for being so supportive and accommodating and said that New York and the people on the streets have made them feel right at home.

"The USO, I can't thank them enough. They'll do anything they can to help us out," he said describing the assistance he's received with transportation and the options the organization presented them.

"When you feel appreciated for the job you're doing ... you just have that desire to do that job to the best of your ability," Antone said.

Marine Staff Sgt. Carlos Vaquero said the people of New York have been appreciative and curious. "They keep coming up to us and asking for pictures," he said.

Servicemembers will enjoy Fleet Week events daily through May 30, Memorial Day. Those events, including an America Supports You concert tonight, are designed to express the appreciation of New York and the American people.

Related Site: America Supports You

Marines, sailors and Coast Guardsmen let loose at the Fleet Week kickoff party hosted by the United Service Organizations May 27 in Midtown Manhattan. Photo by Samantha L. Quigley Download screen-resolution - Download high-resolution

Bridgett Gordon sports an "America Supports You" sticker, which sailors and Marines handed out along Broadway May 27. Photo by Samantha L. Quigley Download screen-resolution - Download high-resolution

Zarqawi, Owwi ?

U.S. Military Attempting To Verify Reports About Zarqawi, Pentagon says it has no independent corroboration terrorist is wounded

Al-Zarqawi 1

Al-Zarqawi 2

Washington -- Army Brigadier General Carter Hamm says the U.S. military has no independent corroboration that the Jordanian terrorist in Iraq linked to al-Qaida, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, has been wounded or spirited out of the country.

During a May 26 briefing at the Pentagon, the deputy director for regional operations for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said efforts are under way to determine the veracity of reports on the Internet and elsewhere about Zarqawi’s condition and whereabouts.

Pentagon spokesman Lawrence Di Rita said it is difficult to determine what is accurate in the reports coming out of the Middle East. The principal deputy assistant secretary of defense noted that al-Qaida and its affiliates have used reports about its operatives in the past for purposes of misinformation and disinformation.

Even though Di Rita described Zarqawi as an important and wanted figure in the War on Terrorism, Hamm pointed out that he is only one individual in a very large organization. He described Zarqawi’s operation as a network of cells spread throughout Iraq. Although Zarqawi’s cells are located regionally, the general said, they are reliant, to a degree, on centralized funding. Efforts to disrupt that financing are under way.

Even if Zarqawi is removed from the power structure, Hamm said his network of followers will remain lethal. His organization is resilient and “won’t crumble or cease to exist” without him, the military official said.

Hamm also said Iraqi counterinsurgency operations that are under way reflect “the growing confidence and capability of the Iraqi security forces.” They are also increasingly making effective use of intelligence being passed to them by local Iraqi citizens, he said. This comes as Iraqi and U.S. forces searched for three inmates who escaped from Abu Ghraib prison near Baghdad May 26.

Asked about reports of gunfire on the long and porous Iraqi-Syrian border, Hamm described such occurrences as unusual and infrequent.

In response to a question about the size of the U.S. force in Iraq, the general said it totals around 139,000. Troops are being rotated in and out of the country and, in the existing transition, he said, “the number of boots on the ground” will increase a bit.

When asked about FBI reporting on allegations that the Quran was not properly respected inside a naval detention facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in 2002, Di Rita responded that the detainee who made the original allegation has been identified and interviewed in the past two weeks. The unidentified detainee now says, “it didn’t happen,” according to the Pentagon spokesman.

SOURCE: usinfo.state.gov/

Honor Our Fallen Heroes, R. James Nicholson, Veterans Affairs

“Honor Our Fallen Heroes” – VA Secretary

WASHINGTON – The Honorable R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, has called upon all Americans to pause on Memorial Day to honor the 1.2 million men and women who have died in the U.S. military since the Revolutionary War.

“On Memorial Day, we honor their deeds and self-sacrifice,” Nicholson said. “In gratitude and respect, we say, Rest well, brave souls, for yours is the sleep of heroes.”

Nicholson encouraged all Americans to take part in Memorial Day events in their communities. In many areas, the local Memorial Day commemoration is centered in one of the 120 national cemeteries operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

The VA Secretary also encouraged people to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance on Memorial Day, May 30, by pausing for one minute beginning at 3 p.m. local time as a sign of respect for fallen military members.

VA records indicate that more than 42.3 million people have served in the U.S. military during wartime since the Revolutionary War, and 1.2 million died in service. The United States has 16.5 million living wartime veterans, plus another 8.2 million from various peacetime eras.

Memorial Day traces it roots back May 5, 1868, when Union survivors of the Civil War decorated the graves of their fallen comrades. It was originally known as “Decoration Day.” Congress made Memorial Day a national holiday in 1971.

Further information about Memorial Day and the National Moment of Remembrance can be obtained on the VA Internet site at va.gov/opa/speceven/memday/. # # # May 26, 2005

Treasury and IRS Issue Guidance on Personal Use of Corporate Aircraft

Treasury and IRS Issue Guidance on Personal Use of Corporate Aircraft

WASHINGTON, DC -- Today the Treasury Department and the IRS issued guidance on the tax treatment of the personal use of corporate aircraft for entertainment travel. The Notice issued today explains how to apply the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 (AJCA) limitation on the costs that a business may deduct when an executive uses the company's aircraft for entertainment travel. This Notice provides interim guidance until regulations are promulgated.

Under prior law, if an employee used a business aircraft for entertainment travel, the employer could deduct the cost of providing the flight. As is commonly the case with fringe benefits, the employee is then required to report the value of the flight as additional income for tax purposes. Previously, while the employer generally would deduct the total cost of providing the flight, often many thousands of dollars, the employee would add only a relatively small amount, calculated under the Department of Transportation's Standard Industry Fare Levels (SIFL) formula, to income. For flights by executives, this asymmetry between the large amount the company deducted and the small amount the executive included as taxable income was addressed by the AJCA.

Under the AJCA, the business' deduction may no longer exceed the amount that the executive takes into income for the entertainment use of the aircraft. The definition of "entertainment use" in the guidance is taken from the existing statute. Generally, "entertainment use" is considered an amusement or recreational activity, such as traveling to a sporting event or to a vacation destination. If the purpose of the trip is business related entertainment, the limitation enacted by the AJCA applies to the executive as well.

Today's Notice clarifies who is covered by the limitation, describes the relevant costs, and illustrates the allocation of the costs for an entertainment flight. Although the Notice focuses on aircraft, the principles of the Notice may apply to other entertainment as well.

May 27, 2005 JS-2476 REPORTS: A copy of the Notice

Burma – Upsurge in Harassment

Burma – Upsurge in Harassment

The United States is deeply concerned about a reported upsurge in harassment of members of Burma’s democratic opposition and their family members. It is the responsibility of Burma’s junta to protect the safety and security of all its citizens.

Threats and intimidation of innocent people cannot and must not be tolerated, nor can baseless and deceitful allegations concerning the May 7 bombings in Rangoon be used as an excuse for such abuses. These latest incidents further underscore the urgent need for the junta to take immediate steps toward genuine national reconciliation and the establishment of democracy.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/566 Released on May 27, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 27, 2005

Secretary Rice to Host Foreign Ambassadors

Secretary of State Rice to Host Meeting of Foreign Ambassadors

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will host and address the Washington Diplomatic Corps to mark the second anniversary of the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) on Tuesday, May 31, 2005, at 11:00 a.m., in the Benjamin Franklin Room. Along with Secretary Rice, other speakers will include the Ambassadors of Singapore, Denmark, and Japan, nations that are active leaders in the initiative.

This event will be open to the press.

Pre-set time for cameras: 9:00 a.m. from the 23rd Street entrance
Pick up time for writers and stills: 10:30 a.m. from the 23rd Street entrance
Final access time for all press: 10:45 a.m. from the 23rd Street entrance

Media representatives may attend this briefing upon presentation of one of the following: (1) a U.S. Government-issued identification card (Department of State, White House, Congress, Department of Defense, or Foreign Press Center), (2) a media-issued photo identification card, or (3) a letter from their employer on letterhead verifying their employment as a journalist, accompanied by an official photo identification (driver’s license or passport).

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/564 Released on May 27, 2005 Notice to the Press (Revised) Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 27, 2005

5th World Bonsai Convention

Arboretum Hosts 5th World Bonsai Convention By Alfredo Flores May 27, 2005

WASHINGTON, May 27--The U.S. National Arboretum (USNA) has scheduled a special evening banquet and tour of its bonsai museum on May 29 as part of the 5th World Bonsai Convention being held in the nation's capital this weekend.

"The convention gives participants a rare opportunity to see many of the world's foremost bonsai and penjing masters demonstrate their expert techniques," said Thomas Elias, director of the arboretum. "We're honored to be co-sponsoring the event and to share our collections with bonsai lovers from around the world."

The arboretum is operated by the Agricultural Research Service, a U.S. Department of Agriculture scientific research agency. In conjunction with the convention, held every four years in a different country, the arboretum will showcase both its permanent bonsai display and several special exhibits.

The convention will feature demonstrations, workshops and informative lectures. Exhibits of outstanding bonsai and penjing specimens, viewing stones and pots will be featured throughout the convention, and vendors will display and sell bonsai-related items. The convention will be held at the Washington Hilton Hotel and is open to the public. People can register for the full convention or a single day. There is a fee of $10 to view the exhibits.

The event will be hosted by the North American Bonsai Federation and sponsored by the American Bonsai Society, Bonsai Clubs International, National Bonsai Foundation, Potomac Bonsai Association and the arboretum.

Opening ceremonies will feature a tribute to Saburo Kato and John Naka, founding fathers of the World Bonsai Friendship Federation. Founded in 1989, the federation was created to promote world peace and friendship through bonsai and its allied arts. Former U.S. Ambassador to Japan Thomas Foley and current Japanese Ambassador to the United States Ryozo Kato are honorary co-chairs for the convention.

The arboretum is home to the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum, the largest and most comprehensive museum of its kind in the world that allows the general public to learn about and enjoy these interesting living art forms, free of charge. More information about the USNA, bonsai museum, including a virtual tour of museum, and the convention can be found at usna.usda.gov

President Bush at the U.S. Naval Academy

Bush Outlines Sweeping DoD Transformation Efforts
By Donna Miles, American Forces Press Service

ANNAPOLIS, Md., May 27, 2005 – Revolutionary advances in technology "are transforming war in our favor," President Bush said at the U.S. Naval Academy here today. He added that the country's investment in such technology advances "will help us keep the peace by redefining war on our terms."

Bush used his keynote address during the academy's Class of 2005 graduation and commissioning ceremonies as a forum to describe his far-reaching plans to transform the U.S. military. Those plans involve changing not only how military forces are organized, trained and equipped, but also where they are stationed, both overseas and domestically.

The goal of the transformation effort, Bush said, is to make U.S. forces "faster, lighter, more agile and more lethal" and better positioned to counter new and emerging threats.

"In our time, terrible dangers can arise on a short moment anywhere in the world, and we must be prepared to oppose these dangers everywhere in the world," he said.

The president vowed to the midshipmen in the audience that they'll have "the very equipment and resources you need to get the job done," and said the country is putting the necessary funding behind that commitment.

The United States has invested $16 billion during the past four years to build transformational military capabilities, and the administration has requested $78 billion more for these efforts over the next four years, Bush said. In addition, he noted $240 billion has gone into research and development to build more advanced capabilities in the decades ahead, and the administration has requested $275 billion more to continue those efforts during the next four years.

"We've already seen the power of technology to transform our forces," he said. During the 1991 Persian Gulf War, for example, aircraft taking off from a carrier deck could engage about 200 targets a day. Now, during Operation Iraqi Freedom, that number has jumped to over 600 targets a day -- three times the capability, the president pointed out.

At the same time, these strikes are becoming increasingly precise, he said. The new Hellfire missile, for example, can isolate strikes to a single floor of a single building and reach around corners to strike enemy forces hiding in caves, bunkers and hardened complexes.

"In the coming years, there are going to be some awfully surprised terrorists when the thermobaric Hellfire comes knocking!" Bush said as the audience broke into applause.

The changes ahead will be "even more dramatic," the president promised, giving the audience a glimpse into technologies being planned or developed:


Unmanned underwater vehicles that can go where no submarine can go today;
Advanced destroyers capable of shooting down ballistic missiles;
Strike submarines that can silently carry special operations forces and cruise missiles within striking distance of adversaries;
Joint sea bases that enable forces to strike from floating platforms close to the action; and
Undersea surveillance systems that provide almost total battle-space awareness.
Other innovations, like the joint tactical radio, will enable all services to share information in the heat of battle, "to work together as a truly joint force," Bush said.

"These technological advances will put unprecedented agility, speed, precision and power in your hands," the president told the midshipmen. It also gives the capability to strike enemies "with greater effectiveness, at greater range, with fewer civilian casualties," he said.

"In this era of warfare, we can target a regime, not a nation," Bush said. "And that means terrorists and tyrants can no longer feel safe hiding behind innocent life. In the 21st century, we can target the guilty and protect the innocent -- and that makes it easier to keep the peace."

While transforming the force, it's also important to reposition its members "so they can surge quickly to deal with unexpected threats," the president said.

Some 60,000 to 70,000 U.S. servicemembers stationed overseas will return to the United States in what the president called "the biggest transformation of our global force posture since the end of World War II."

"These changes will reduce the stress on your families, raise the pressure on our enemies, and ensure that you remain the most powerful and effective fighting force on earth," he told the midshipmen.

The U.S. military must transform its domestic force posture as well, and that will require closing and realigning stateside military bases, he said. "The military services ... have concluded that we have more bases than we need," the president said. "Supporting these facilities wastes billions of taxpayer dollars -- money that can be better spent giving you the tools to fight terrorists and confront 21st-century threats."

The Defense Department presented its recommendations to the Base Realignment and Closure Commission two weeks ago, representing "only the beginning of the process," Bush said. Commission members are now visiting the sites recommended for closure and hearing from affected communities.

Bush acknowledged that local communities can be hard-hit by base closings and vowed to do everything possible to smooth the transition through economic development aid, job training and help with redevelopment plans for affected bases.

The BRAC process "will be impartial and fair," Bush promised, and in the end, will save the United States $48 billion over the next 20 years.

"It will result in a military that is more efficient and better prepared, so you can better protect the American people against the dangers of this new century," he told the midshipmen.

But Bush reminded the graduating class that transformation "requires more than high-tech weapons" and that "all the advanced technology in the world will not transform our military if we do not transform our thinking."

He urged the midshipmen to bring "creativity, ingenuity and a willingness to try new things," to their military careers.

"Seek out the innovative leaders in our military, work with them and learn from them, and they will help you become leaders yourself," he said. "Show courage, and not just on the battlefield. Pursue the possibilities others tell you do not exist."

The president warned the midshipman that they're likely to face opposition if they challenge existing ways of thinking, but encouraged them to prevail.

In doing so, he said, "You will make America safer for your children and your grandchildren, and you'll add to the character of our nation."

Related Sites:

• U.S. Naval Academy
• Transcript of President's Commencement Address

Freedom Calendar 05/28/05 - 06/04/05

May 28, 1930, Birth of U.S. Rep. Patricia Saiki (R-HI), first Asian-American to lead a federal agency; appointed head of U.S. Small Business Administration by President George H. W. Bush.

May 29, 1902, Virginia Democrats implement new state constitution, condemned by Republicans as illegal, reducing African-American voter registration by 86%.

30 Memorial Day, May 30, 1854, Democrat President Franklin Pierce signs Democrats’ Kansas-Nebraska Act, expanding slavery into U.S. territories; opponents unite to form the Republican Party.

May 31, 1870, President U.S. Grant signs Republicans’ Enforcement Act, providing stiff penalties for depriving any American’s civil rights.

June 1, 1963, Democrat Governor George Wallace announces defiance of court order issued by Republican federal judge Frank Johnson to integrate University of Alabama.

June 2, 1924, Republican President Calvin Coolidge signs bill passed by Republican Congress granting U.S. citizenship to all Native Americans.

June 3, 1884, U.S. Rep. John Lynch (R-MS), a former slave, presides over Republican National Convention.

June 4, 1860, Republican U.S. Senator Charles Sumner (R-MA) delivers his classic address, The Barbarism of Slavery.

“Slavery is a violation of the rights of a man; that the law of nature which is the law of liberty, gives to no man rights superior to those of another; that God and nature have secured to each individual the inalienable right of equality - Upon a hatred of slavery, and the desire for an accountable, fiscally responsible, government, the above resolution was overwhelmingly adopted in its entirety.”

The first Republican state party platform, Michigan, 1854

SOURCE: 2005 Republican Freedom Calendar

bush radio address 05/28/05 full audio, text transcript

bush radio address 05/28/05 full audio, text transcript

President's Radio Address

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This Memorial Day weekend, Americans pay tribute to those who have given their lives in the service of our nation. As we honor the members of our Armed Forces who have died for our freedom, we also honor those who are defending our liberties today.

On Friday, I met with some of the courageous men and women who will soon take their place in the defense of our freedom: the graduating class of the United State s Naval Academy. These new officers will soon be serving on ships, flying combat missions, and leading our troops into battle against dangerous enemies. They are prepared for the challenges ahead -- morally, mentally, and physically. The American people can be confident that their freedom is in good hands.

Our citizens live in freedom because patriots are willing to serve and sacrifice for our liberty. And on Monday, I will lay a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery in honor of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II, a victory for freedom in which more than 400,000 Americans gave their lives. Today a new generation of Americans is making its own sacrifice on behalf of peace and freedom, and some have given their lives.

In their hometowns, these soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines are more than names on a roll of honor. They were friends and neighbors, teachers and coaches, classmates and colleagues. Each was the most important person in someone's life; each had hopes for the future, and each left a place that can never be filled.

We mourn their loss, and we honor their sacrifice. We pray for their families. And we take heart in knowing that these men and women believed deeply in what they were fighting for. Christopher Swisher was a staff sergeant from Lincoln, Nebraska, who joined the Army a year after graduating from high school. He was killed in an ambush while on patrol in Baghdad. Sergeant Swisher told his loved ones: "If anything happens to me, I'm doing what I want to be doing -- I'm protecting my family and my home."

Rafael Peralta also understood that America faces dangerous enemies, and he knew the sacrifices required to defeat them. An immigrant from Mexico, he enlisted in the Marine Corps the day after he got his green card. Just before the battle of Fallujah, he wrote his 14-year-old brother, "We are going to defeat the insurgents. Be proud of me, I'm going to make history and do something that I always wanted to do." A few days later, Sergeant Peralta gave his life to save his fellow Marines.

This Memorial Day, we remember Sergeant Peralta, Sergeant Swisher, and all who have given their lives for our nation. And we honor them as we continue to wage the war on terror and spread freedom across the world. The people of Iraq and Afghanistan are determined to secure their freedom, and we will help them. We're training Iraqi and Afghan forces so they can take the fight to the enemy and defend their own countries, and then our troops will return home with the honor they have earned.

Throughout our history, America has fought not to conquer but to liberate. We go to war reluctantly, because we understand the high cost of war. Those who have given their lives to defend America have the respect and gratitude of our entire nation.

Thank you for listening. For Immediate Release May 28, 2005

Law & Order: Criminal Intent

"Looks like the same shooters. CSU found the slug in a post, matched it to the one that killed Judge Barton. Maybe we should put out an APB [all-points bulletin] for somebody in a Tom DeLay T-Shirt," - Detective Eames (played by Kathryn Erbe)

"This manipulation of my name and trivialization of the sensitive issue of judicial security represents a reckless disregard for the suffering initiated by recent tragedies and a great disservice to public discourse," - House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas) (played by Tom DeLay)

t-shirt clip FULL STREAMING VIDEO from Media Research Center (MRC)

UVB radiation changes 7 dehydrocholesterol

Midday sun holds the key to good health (26 May, 2005)

Scientists at The University of Manchester have today unveiled new research which claims that going out in the midday sun, without sunscreen, is good for you.

The research, led by ultra-violet radiation expert Ann Webb, supports claims that exposing unprotected skin to the sun for short periods helps the body to produce essential Vitamin D.

Dr Webb has produced new figures which not only predict when is the best time to expose unprotected skin to the sun in order to maximise Vitamin D production, but also for how long - depending on location. She has calculated that 'ten to fifteen minutes* at noon' is the optimum time for the average person in the UK to spend in the sun without the use of sunscreen.

"Our calculations have found that the best time to be out in the sun if you want to maximise Vitamin D production and its benefits is midday. This is when the sun is highest in the sky and this is when there is more UVB radiation in the spectrum which triggers Vitamin D production in the skin," says Dr Webb.

Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphate from food and is essential in the formation of bones and teeth. A deficiency of Vitamin D leads to a failure of the bones to grow and causes rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults. Recent research also suggests that Vitamin D can help reduce the risks of colon, breast and prostate cancer.

Dr Webb, says: "The two sources of Vitamin D are through your skin or through foods like sardines (fatty fish), but because our everyday diet isn't very rich in the vitamin it is essential that we get it from the sun."

"You do not need to sunbathe to get your Vitamin D and we are not advocating people do not protect themselves with sunscreen, but if you put sunscreen on before you step out of the house you will not reap any health benefits provided naturally by the sun. After a short period of unprotected exposure you should cover up or put on sunscreen to avoid sunburn."

The research, which has been carried out in conjunction with experts at the Norwegian Institute for Air Research, uses computer simulations based on global UV data to calculate optimum times for Vitamin D production based on season, time and latitude. The programme can be run for any time of day and can calculate optimum exposure times for any location in the UK or abroad.

*Figures for optimum Vitamin D sun exposure this Bank Holiday weekend:

Edinburgh - 11 minutes
Manchester , Leeds, Liverpool - 10 minutes
London - 9 minutes
Devon and Cornwall - 9 minutes
Marseille - 7 minutes
Madrid - 7 minutes
Athens - 6.5 minutes

Figures based on full sun exposure at midday on Bank Holiday Monday (May 30th) with a cloudless sky for a fair-skinned person wearing t-shirt and shorts or skirt. People who tan easily would need to spend slightly longer in the sun, and naturally pigmented people require even more sun exposure.
For further information:

Simon Hunter, Media Relations Officer, telephone: 0161 2758387/07717881569

Notes to Editors:

Dr Ann Webb is a Reader in the School of Earth Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences part of The University of Manchester's Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

This research is based on the findings in the Paper 'Calculated Ultra Violet Exposure Levels for a Healthy Vitamin D Status' co-authored by Dr Ann Webb and Dr Ola Engelsen at The Norwegian Institute of Air Research.
Calculations have been made on the basis of the UV equivalent of an oral intake of a 1,000 international units of vitamin D per day as recommended by Michael Holick.

Explanation of how UVB creates Vitamin D:

UVB radiation changes 7 dehydrocholesterol, present in skin cells, into pre-vitamin D. This is a rapid reaction. Over the course of several hours the body's heat then changes the pre-vitamin D into vitamin D, which is picked up by a binding protein in the blood. The vitamin D is changed into its active form in the liver and kidney.

Pre-vitamin D can also be changed into other biologically inert products in the skin. This limits the amount of vitamin D that can be made in the skin at any one time. A long exposure therefore gives no benefits, only the risk of sunburn. Short, regular (daily) exposures are the best way to build up a healthy vitamin D status.

Last updated: Thu, 26 May 2005 12:35:34 BST Combining the strengths of UMIST and
The Victoria University of Manchester

SOURCE: The University of Manchester

Lawrence Di Rita, Gen. Jay W. Hood

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Lawrence Di Rita (right) and Army Brig. Gen. Jay W. Hood (left) discuss the alleged mishandling of the Koran by U.S. personnel at the Guantanamo Detention Facility

during a Pentagon press conference on May 26, 2005. Hood, the commander of Joint Task Force Guantanamo, is conducting an investigation of the allegations of the alleged mishandling. DoD photo by R. D. Ward. (Released) 050526-D-9880W-255 High Res Image

President Bush will welcome Prime Minister Phan Van Khai of Vietnam

Visit by Prime Minister Phan Van Khai of Vietnam to Washington

President Bush will welcome Prime Minister Phan Van Khai of Vietnam to the White House on June 21. The visit marks the tenth anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties in 1995 between the United States and Vietnam. Prime Minister Khai will be the most senior Vietnamese official to visit Washington since that time. The two leaders will discuss ways to further strengthen cooperation on a range of bilateral, regional and international issues. This meeting is particularly timely in light of Vietnam's hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in 2006. # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 27, 2005 Statement by the Press Secretary

President to Welcome OAS Secretary General Jose Miguel Insulza

President to Welcome Organization of American States Secretary General to the White House
On May 31 President Bush will welcome to the White House the Organization of American States Secretary General Jose Miguel Insulza of Chile. The two will discuss the role of the OAS in supporting democracy and promoting prosperity in the Western Hemisphere. President Bush and Secretary General Insulza will also talk about the upcoming (June 5-7) OAS General Assembly in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 27, 2005

Emergency Response Fund (ERF) Arabic radio and television

Text of a Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, May 27, 2005 Dear Mr. Speaker:

I am notifying the Congress of my intent to reallocate funds previously transferred from the Emergency Response Fund (ERF).

To promote democracy and freedom, $7.7 million of ERF funds will be reallocated within the Broadcasting Board of Governors to support the operational costs of Arabic radio and television broadcasting to the Middle East.

The details of this action are set forth in the enclosed letter from the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.

Sincerely, GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 27, 2005

Bush to nominate six individuals 05/27/05

President George W. Bush today announced his intention to nominate six individuals to serve in his Administration:

The President intends to nominate William C. Anderson, of Connecticut, to be Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Installations and Environment). Mr. Anderson currently serves as General Manager and Senior Counsel for Environmental, Health and Safety at the General Electric Company. He previously served as General Counsel and Director of Quality and Environmental Affairs at GE Power Controls in Gent, Belgium. Earlier in his career, Mr. Anderson served as Integration Manager for GE Power Controls in Frankfurt, Germany and as Tax Counsel for GE Electrical Distribution and Control in Plainville, Connecticut. He earned his bachelor's degree from Washington College and his J.D. from Syracuse University.

The President intends to nominate Israel Hernandez, of Texas, to be Assistant Secretary of Commerce and Director General of the United States and Foreign Commercial Service. Mr. Hernandez most recently served as Deputy Assistant to the President in the Office of the Senior Advisor. He previously served as Director for Voter Outreach in the Office of Strategy on the Bush-Cheney 2000 Campaign. Prior to this position, Mr. Hernandez served as Personal Travel Aide for then Governor George W. Bush. He earned his bachelor's degree from The University of Texas and his master's degree from Texas A&M University.

The President intends to nominate Philip D. Morrison, of the District of Columbia, to be Assistant Secretary of the Treasury (Tax Policy). Mr. Morrison currently serves as a Principal with the Washington National Tax Office of Deloitte Tax LLP. He previously served as a Partner with Baker & McKenzie. Earlier in his career, Mr. Morrison served as the U.S. Treasury's International Tax Counsel, the U.S. government's chief legal adviser on international tax matters and chief negotiator of tax treaties and director of the Office of International Tax Counsel. He earned his bachelor's degree from Princeton University and his J.D. from Harvard Law School.

The President intends to nominate Ronald E. Neumann, of Virginia, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. A career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Ambassador Neumann currently serves as Counselor for Political-Military Affairs in Baghdad, Iraq. He previously served as Chief of Mission in Manama, Bahrain. Prior to this position, Ambassador Neumann served as Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Near East Asian Affairs. Earlier in his career, he served as Ambassador to Algeria. Ambassador Neumann earned his bachelor's degree and master's degree from the University of California at Riverside.

The President intends to nominate Richard A. Raymond, of Nebraska, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Food Safety. Dr. Raymond currently serves as Director of the Regulation and Licensure Agency within the Nebraska Health and Human Services System and also serves as Chief Medical Officer of the Nebraska Health and Human Services System. He previously served as the Director of the Clarkson Family Practice Residency Program. Earlier in his career, Dr. Raymond served as Medical Director for the Nebraska Health System's Hospice Program. He earned his bachelor's degree from Hastings College and his MD from the University of Nebraska.

The President intends to nominate Gregory L. Schulte, of Virginia, to be Representative of the United States of America to the Vienna Office of the United Nations, and Representative of the United States of America to the IAEA, with the rank of Ambassador. Mr. Schulte currently serves as Chief of Staff of the Roles, Missions, and Organizations Team for the Quadrennial Defense Review at the Department of Defense. He previously served as Executive Secretary of the National Security Council, as well as Senior Director for Southeast European Affairs and Special Assistant to the President for Implementation of the Dayton Peace Accords at the National Security Council. Earlier in his career, Mr. Schulte served as Director of the Secretary General's Bosnia Task Force at NATO Headquarters in Belgium. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his master's degree from Princeton University.

Personnel Announcement # # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 26, 2005

Nominations Sent to the Senate 05/27/05

Nominations Sent to the Senate

William Anderson, of Connecticut, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Air Force, vice Nelson F. Gibbs.

Israel Hernandez, of Texas, to be Assistant Secretary of Commerce and Director General of the United States and Foreign Commercial Service, vice Rhonda Keenum.

Philip D. Morrison, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, vice Pamela F. Olson, resigned.

Ronald E. Neumann, of Virginia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Randal Quarles, of Utah, to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury, vice Brian Carlton Roseboro.

Richard A. Raymond, of Nebraska, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Food Safety, vice Elsa A. Murano, resigned.

Gregory L. Schulte, of Virginia, to be Representative of the United States of America to the International Atomic Energy Agency, with the rank of Ambassador.

Gregory L. Schulte, of Virginia, to be Representative of the United States of America to the Vienna Office of the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary May 26, 2005

Robert B. Zoellick to Travel to Rwanda and Sudan

Deputy Secretary Robert B. Zoellick to Travel to Rwanda and Sudan

Deputy Secretary of State Robert B. Zoellick will travel to Rwanda and Sudan during the week of May 31st. While in Rwanda, the Deputy Secretary will attend the annual meeting of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Summit in Kigali. He will then make his second trip to Sudan in order to visit Darfur and also to meet with Sudanese government officials and the Special Representative of the United Nations, Jan Pronk, in Khartoum.

Through his participation in the COMESA meeting in Kigali, Deputy Secretary Zoellick will highlight United States support for COMESA’s role in fostering regional political, economic, and security conditions. He will discuss with COMESA and the leaders of its member states our work together to bring about a peaceful, unified Sudan and support the transition process in the Great Lakes. The Deputy Secretary is also expected to meet with Rwandan government officials and visit the Genocide Memorial in Kigali. COMESA member states are Angola, Burundi, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sudan, Swaziland, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. COMESA nations’ total population is 385 million, and they have a combined gross domestic product of approximately $388 billion.

In Sudan, Deputy Secretary Zoellick will continue our work -- in concert with the African Union, other international parties, and the Sudanese -- to resolve the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, advance effective implementation of the North/South Comprehensive Peace Agreement, and promote a political reconciliation in Darfur. He will meet with one of the forward-deployed African Union units in Darfur and talk with tribal leaders at a camp of internally displaced persons. His visit will follow up on the U.S. pledge made at the May 26 donors conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to support expansion of the African Union force in Darfur, particularly through NATO.

Deputy Secretary Zoellick last visited Darfur, Khartoum, and Rumbek in southern Sudan from April 14 -15th, after attending an international conference in Oslo to mobilize support for the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Accord between Northern and Southern Sudan.

The United States has led the world in providing humanitarian assistance to southern Sudan and Darfur. The United States will seek to provide between one and two billion dollars to this cause over the next two years, and has already committed over $1.1 billion with an additional $540 million under consideration for FY ’06. To date in fiscal year 2005, the United States has provided more than $375 million in humanitarian assistance to populations in Darfur and for the approximately 200,000 refugees who have fled to Chad. During fiscal years 2003-2005, we have provided more than $635 million in humanitarian assistance for the Darfur emergency.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/563 Released on May 27, 2005 Press Statement (Revised)Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 27, 2005

Egyptian Referendum Vote

Egyptian Referendum Vote

Question: What is the U.S. reaction to the May 25 referendum vote in Egypt?

Answer: Yesterday's referendum on Egypt's constitutional amendment on Presidential elections was a key element of President Mubarak's decision to bring about political reform in Egypt. Achieving such reform is critical for the people of Egypt.

We are seriously concerned by the reports of beatings and intimidation of opposition figures during yesterday’s voting. Particularly distressing are the reports that some of the attacks appeared to focus on abuse and intimidation of women.

We welcomed President Mubarak’s February 26 announcement that the upcoming Presidential elections would be free, fair and open to multiple candidates as an important step forward. The violent intimidation witnessed yesterday is incompatible with genuinely free and fair election process.

We urge the Government of Egypt to investigate these reports and take steps necessary to ensure that such intimidation does not occur again. The Egyptian people should be free to speak, assemble and choose their leaders in an atmosphere free from intimidation.

We are expressing these concerns to the Government of Egypt in Cairo and in Washington.

2005/557

Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 26, 2005 Question Taken at the May 26, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

Improved Passport Application Form Available Online

Improved Passport Application Form Available Online

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has introduced a new online passport application form procedure. This new process will promote faster passport processing and reduce data entry errors by eliminating the need to manually enter data from handwritten passport applications.

Under the online form process, applicants for U.S. passports will no longer have to handwrite personal data to fill out a passport application form. Instead, the applicant may electronically enter his or her personal information securely online and then print the finished form. The electronic entry system allows for the generation of a 2D barcode on the printed form. This 2D barcode is read by machine during the adjudication process and reproduces the information electronically entered by the applicant. In order to ensure the privacy of data, the Department of State does not retain the data provided by applicants using this process. Once the application form is printed, the data provided to generate that form is automatically deleted.

The online form may be accessed at travel.state.gov/passport. Blank passport application forms may also be downloaded from that website. Completed passport application forms and accompanying documents may be submitted at any of the 6,000 passport application acceptance facilities around the United States or at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

Last year, over 8.8 million U.S. passports were issued to U.S. citizens. It is expected that the Department of State will issue over 10 million U.S. passports this year.

2005/562 Released on May 26, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 26, 2005

Second Anniversary of Attack on Aung San Suu Kyi

Burma: Second Anniversary of Attack on Aung San Suu Kyi

May 30 marks the second anniversary of the brutal attack on Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi and her supporters. Government-affiliated forces used bamboo staves and metal pipes to kill or injure members of the National League for Democracy and pro-democracy supporters. The Burmese junta continues to ignore requests by the international community to investigate the attack and refuses to take any responsibility or hold accountable those officials reportedly involved in the assault. The junta, which has detained Aung San Suu Kyi on numerous occasions over the past fifteen years, again detained her following the May 2003 attack. Today, she is held under house arrest and is virtually incommunicado.

The Burmese people continue to suffer serious abuses at the hands of the ruling junta. Over the last year, conditions in Burma have deteriorated further. May 27 marks the 15th anniversary of the National League for Democracy’s overwhelming victory of an election the Burmese junta has refused to honor. National reconciliation and the establishment of democracy still remain beyond the grasp of Burma’s suffering population. Arrests of pro-democracy activists continue unabated.

The Junta has convened a National Convention to draft a constitution that will entrench military rule in Burma. Any new constitution, referendum, or election emerging from the deliberations of this unrepresentative process will be seriously flawed and cannot represent the true will of the Burmese people.

The United States calls on the Burmese junta to release immediately and unconditionally Aung San Suu Kyi, U Tin Oo, Khun Htun Oo and all political prisoners; to permit the re-opening of offices of the National League for Democracy; to engage the democratic opposition and ethnic minority groups in a meaningful dialogue leading to national reconciliation and the establishment of democracy; and to respect the fundamental human rights of the Burmese people.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/560 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 26, 2005

Islamic Jihad Group Under Executive Order 13224

U.S. Department of State Designates the Islamic Jihad Group Under Executive Order 13224

The Department of State on May 25 announced the designation of the Islamic Jihad Group (IJG) as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist under Executive Order 13224. This designation blocks all property, and interests in property, of the organization that are in the United States, or come within the United States, or the control of U. S. persons. The Secretary of State took this action in consultation with the Attorney General, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Department of Homeland Security.

The Islamic Jihad Group, active in Central Asia, broke away from the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization that is listed by the UN 1267 Sanctions Committee. On July 30, 2004, the Islamic Jihad Group conducted coordinated bombing attacks in Tashkent against the U.S. and Israeli Embassies, and the office of the Uzbek Prosecutor General, killing at least two people and wounding nine. The Islamic Jihad Group claimed responsibility for these attacks and indicated that future attacks are planned. The Islamic Jihad Group continues to target Americans and U.S. facilities overseas and is a dangerous threat to U.S. interests.

After an explosion at a safehouse in Bukharo, Uzbekistan, IJG suicide bombers attacked a popular bazaar and other locations in Tashkent in March and April 2004, resulting in the deaths of more than a dozen police officers and innocent bystanders and dozens of injuries. The attackers in the March and April 2004 attacks, some of whom were female suicide bombers, targeted the local government offices of the Uzbekistani and Bukharo police, killing approximately 47 people, including 33 terrorists. These attacks marked the first use of female suicide bombers in Central Asia.

Those arrested in connection with the attacks in Bukharo have testified to the close ties between the IJG leaders and Usama bin Laden and Mullah Omar. Kazakhstani authorities have declared that IJG members were taught by al-Qaida instructors to handle explosives and to organize intelligence work and subversive activities. Kazakhstan has arrested several IJG members and put them on trial.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/559 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 26, 2005

African Union-Hosted Donors’ Conference

United States Welcomes African Union-Hosted Donors’ Conference

The United States welcomes the African Union-hosted donors’ conference that was held today in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The co-hosting of this conference by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan and African Union Commission Chair Alpha Oumar Konare sends a strong message to the Sudanese parties of the international community’s commitment to support the African Union as it expands its peacekeeping mission throughout Darfur to end violence and hasten a peaceful resolution to the humanitarian crisis there. Charles R. Snyder, Senior Representative on Sudan, represented the United States. Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer attended for NATO, as did General Jones, the Supreme Allied Commander of European Forces.

The United States has led international efforts to support peace and humanitarian relief to Sudan. The pledge made in Addis Ababa is part of our very strong and continuing commitment to achieve peace in a unified Sudan. At the Oslo Donors’ Conference last month, Deputy Secretary of State Zoellick announced our commitment of $853 million for Sudan in fiscal year 2005, with an additional $50 million requested for fiscal year 2006. For Darfur specifically, the United States has provided $635 million in humanitarian assistance in fiscal years 2003-2005.

The United States has provided to date nearly $100 million in assistance to the African Union Mission in Sudan. We have taken the lead to encourage the provision of NATO assistance for the African Union expansion. This major initiative will substantially strengthen the African Union operation and help facilitate expansion of the force to 7,700 by the August/September timeframe. We made a strong pledge at the donors’ conference in Addis Ababa today. We will provide $50 million to expand camps for the African Union peacekeepers and to provide logistical support. To support NATO efforts we will provide airlift for the Rwandan contingent of the expanded force and provide training for African forces planning to deploy. All of this underscores the commitment of the United States to work with the international community and the Sudanese parties to achieve peace in a unified Sudan.

We also welcome announcements by the European Union and Canada of additional assistance to the African Union in Darfur.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/561 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 26, 2005

42nd Anniversary of Africa Day

42nd Anniversary of Africa Day

The United States is honored to commemorate the 42nd Anniversary of Africa Day.

The United States enjoys a dynamic partnership with African countries and regional organizations to support democracy, expand economic prosperity, combat terrorism, and resolve conflict. We are committed to working closely with the African Union and welcome its role as a force for positive change across Africa. Other African regional organizations are playing important roles to foster peace, growth, and regional organization. For example, Deputy Secretary Zoellick will travel to the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) regional economic summit in Kigali, Rwanda on June 2 to consult with heads of state from regional East African nations regarding key issues. We strongly support The New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD) as a framework for Africans to achieve a democratic, prosperous future.

The United States looks forward to maintaining and enhancing our partnership with Africa to help the continent achieve its enormous promise. The historic African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has opened U.S. markets to thousands of products from Africa, and President Bush’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief has a major focus on Africa. The Millennium Challenge Account will target many countries in Africa to promote economic development by harnessing the energy of the private sector.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/554 Released on May 25, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 25, 2005

Framework for Cooperation U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Available Online

Framework for Cooperation Between The United States and The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Available Online

The 2005 Framework for Cooperation between the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees and the United States is now available on the website of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (www.state.gov/g/prm).

The agreement was signed on May 10 in Geneva by Acting High Commissioner for Refugees Wendy Chamberlin and on May 18 in Washington by Arthur E. “Gene” Dewey, Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees, and Migration.

This document sets out the basis for cooperation between the U.N.’s refugee agency -- which is responsible for assisting an estimated 17 million uprooted people around the world -- and its largest single donor, the United States. Negotiated annually, the framework emphasizes the United States’ support for UNHCR’s core mandate activities of ensuring protection of and durable solutions for refugees. It also focuses on mutually agreed priority areas requiring additional effort in 2005.

In the interest of transparency, consistent with the “Good Humanitarian Donorship” principles to which the United States and UN High Commissioner for Refugees both subscribe, it was agreed that the full text of the 2005 Framework for Cooperation should be made available on the websites of both the Department of State and the UNHCR.

2005/550 Released on May 25, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 25, 2005

Caspian Basin Pipeline

Opening of Caspian Basin Pipeline

The State Department warmly welcomes the official opening of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan ("Jay-HAHN") oil pipeline today in Baku, Azerbaijan. The United States has long supported this historic project as a centerpiece of the East-West Energy Corridor.

The $4 billion, 1,000-mile-long BTC pipeline will bring crude oil -- initially one million barrels a day -- from Azerbaijan's southern Caspian offshore fields through Georgia to Turkey's Mediterranean port of Ceyhan for shipment to world markets.

The BTC pipeline will reinforce the sovereignty and prosperity of Azerbaijan and Georgia. BTC will further integrate Azerbaijan and Georgia into the international free market economy and promote their development, while advancing our shared goal of developing multiple oil and gas export routes. The BTC pipeline will also enhance Turkey's emerging role as an energy transportation hub and help reduce oil tanker traffic congestion in the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits.

The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline is a major success for the U.S. goal of enhancing and diversifying global energy supplies.

Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman is leading the U.S. delegation at the opening ceremony. We congratulate the governments of Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey as well as the American, British, and other nations' companies involved in this magnificent achievement of engineering and international cooperation.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/552 Released on May 25, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 25, 2005

New UN High Commissioner for Refugees

U.S. Welcomes the Appointment of New UN High Commissioner for Refugees

The United States welcomes the appointment by of former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Guterres as the new United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Former Prime Minister Guterres’ stature and experience make him eminently suitable for this important and demanding position. The United States looks forward to continuing its close and cooperative relationship with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees under Mr. Guterres’ leadership.

The United States is the single largest donor country to UNHCR. We will work with Mr. Guterres to ensure the effective care and protection of more than 17 million refugees and other persons of concern throughout the world.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/555 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 25, 2005

discontinuous palladium, siloxane self-assembled monolayer

New hydrogen sensor faster, more sensitive

ARGONNE, Ill. (May 25, 2005) – The same kind of chemical coating used to shed rainwater from aircraft and automobile windows also dramatically enhances the sensitivity and reaction time of hydrogen sensors. Hydrogen sensor technology is a critical component for safety and other practical concerns in the proposed hydrogen economy. For example, hydrogen sensors will detect leaks from hydrogen-powered cars and fueling stations long before the gas becomes an explosive hazard.

The discovery was made by a team led by Zhili Xiao, a physicist in the Materials Science Division at the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory and an associate professor of physics at Northern Illinois University. The scientists demonstrated that the enhanced sensor design shows a rapid and reversible response to hydrogen gas that is repeatable over hundreds of cycles. A report on the team's research was published in May in Applied Physics Letters.

The sensor material is made by depositing a discontinuous palladium thin film on a glass slide coated with a grease-like self-assembled monolayer of siloxane anchored to the surface.

“By adding the siloxane self-assembled monolayer, we have changed the thin film dynamics,” said Michael Zach, a chemist and holder of the Glenn Seaborg Postdoctoral Fellowship at Argonne. “Other sensors have a response time of several seconds upon exposure to 2 percent hydrogen; ours works in tens of milliseconds.” Also, the scientists reported that the enhanced sensors are sensitive enough to detect hydrogen levels as low as 25 parts per million (ppm), far below hydrogen's lower explosive limit around 40,000 ppm. Their sensitivity and speed are superior to any available commercial sensors.

Palladium is an ideal material for hydrogen sensing because it selectively absorbs hydrogen gas and forms a chemical species known as a palladium hydride. Thick-film hydrogen sensor designs rely on the fact that palladium metal hydride's electrical resistance is greater than the metal's resistance. In such systems, the absorption of hydrogen is accompanied by a measurable increase in electrical resistance.

However, a palladium thin-film sensor is based on an opposing property that depends on the nanoscale structures within the thin film. In the thin film, nanosized palladium particles swell when the hydride is formed, and in the process of expanding, some of them form new electrical connections with their neighbors. The increased number of conducting pathways results in an overall net decrease in resistance.

Palladium is good at “wetting” bare glass surfaces – it spreads across the glass in puddle-like clusters a few nanometers thick and tens of nanometers across. After pre-coating the glass with the siloxane monolayer, the Argonne scientists saw a remarkable shift in the size and spatial distribution of the palladium. Like water beading on the surface of a freshly waxed car, the palladium formed granular clusters just a few nanometers across. The gaps between neighboring palladium clusters on the siloxane-coated glass were more numerous and ten times smaller on average than the gaps between the much larger, spread-out clusters on the bare glass.

“The shorter gap distance is important for giving you a fast, sensitive response,” said Tao Xu, a chemist and the first inventor of the submitted patent application on fast hydrogen sensors. Even a slight swelling of the clusters produces many more new electrical contacts between neighbors and links together many new pathways for an electrical current to travel.

The scientists also have evidence that the surface treatment of the glass reduces the adhesion – or “stiction” – between the metal and glass that hinders the expansion and contraction of the palladium nanoparticles on bare glass. This effect contributes to the increased speed of the sensor response.

The scientists spent nearly a year optimizing the procedure to make the palladium films on coated glass, and they developed a new test system that could inject hydrogen quickly enough to test the sensors on a millisecond time scale. They say their approach to making sensors is easily scalable to an industrial level. “We are using techniques that the semiconductor industry already uses,” Zach said.

The sensor will be affordable too. Although palladium is an expensive precious metal, Zach estimated that the amount in each sensor is so small that the metal cost is less than a penny.

Several outstanding questions include whether the sensors can be made to withstand poisonous contaminants in the air and whether the sensors will stand up to long-term operation. Wai-Kwong Kwok, leader of the Superconductivity and Magnetism group in the Materials Science Division, expressed confidence that these issues can be handled on an engineering level. The sensors are being developed for commercial use by an industrial partner in collaboration with Argonne.

The nation's first national laboratory, Argonne National Laboratory conducts basic and applied scientific research across a wide spectrum of disciplines, ranging from high-energy physics to climatology and biotechnology. Since 1990, Argonne has worked with more than 600 companies and numerous federal agencies and other organizations to help advance America's scientific leadership and prepare the nation for the future. Argonne is operated by the University of Chicago for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science.

For more information, please contact Catherine Foster (630/252-5580 or cfoster@anl.gov) at Argonne.