Researchers improve hurricane predictions

Researchers take 'LEAD' to improve hurricane, tornado predictions

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Indiana University School of Informatics researchers are part of national team devising technology that more accurately predicts and tracks large-scale weather events such as Hurricane Katrina, which left thousands dead and injured and a path of devastation in its wake.

The Linked Environments Atmospheric Discovery project seeks to create a high-speed computing and network infrastructure that would help meteorologists make more timely and accurate forecasts of hurricanes, tornadoes and other dangerous weather conditions. The national effort seeks to build a "faster-than-real time" system that could save lives and help the public take cover and safety officials better prepare for looming natural disasters.

LEAD is funded by an $11 million grant from the National Science Foundation. IU recently received an additional $2 million NSF grant for its participation in the TeraGrid project to support LEAD and other "science gateways." The funding comes on the heels of IU receiving $4.4 million from the NSF to help improve TeraGrid, an advanced national computing network that allows scientists across the nation to share data and collaborate.

Dennis Gannon is IU's principal investigator, and is joined by co-principal investigator, Beth Plale, Ph.D. Both are faculty members in the School's Department of Computer Science.

"Our goal is to build an adaptive, on-demand computer and network infrastructure that responds to complex weather-driven events," says Gannon, professor of computer science. "A typical scenario will involve constant monitoring of stream data from ground sensors detecting humidity, wind and lightning strikes."

The system also would pool and analyze data received from other sources such as satellites, visual reports from commercial pilots and NEXRAD, a network of 130 national radars that detect and process changing weather conditions.

"Data mining tasks will compare this data to historic patterns," says Plale, assistant professor. "When the conditions are right for the formation of a severe storm, the system will be able to launch hundreds of simulations at the same time. This results in a far more accurate forecast."

As additional sensor information becomes available, it will be used to kill off simulations that no longer have value, refocusing the system's ability to process finer-grid simulations that are more realistic. Newer and smaller NEXRAD radars now under development will provide weather information more rapidly and further narrow simulations.

"The result, for example, would be a prediction of a tornado that is accurate and timely enough to save lives," says Gannon. "This scenario is well beyond the state of the art."

Such forecasts would be of tremendous value for government and public safety officials who plan recovery support for disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, adds Plale. "A more accurate forecast also can reduce the uncertainty administrators face when issuing evacuation orders."

Other institutions involved in LEAD are the University of Oklahoma (lead institution), Howard University, Colorado State University, Millersville University, University of Alabama, University of Illinois, University of North Carolina and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research-Unidata Program. ###

Contact: Joe Stuteville jstutevi@indiana.edu 812-856-314 1Indiana University

For more information about the Linked Environments Atmospheric Discovery, go to lead.caps.ou.edu/.

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Gulf Coast recovery geographic data

Cornell Web site will aid Gulf Coast recovery with precise geographic data By Bill Steele

ITHACA, N.Y. -- A Web site being developed at Cornell University will give reconstruction workers and researchers access to detailed information on the status of critical infrastructure in communities along the Mississippi coast, tied in with existing information about the location of roads, bridges, public and private buildings and even economic and demographic data about the region.

A team from the Multidisciplinary Center for Earthquake Engineering Research (MCEER, usually pronounced "Em-sear") began Sept. 6 to survey Mississippi coastal communities, collecting this and other information and keying it to precise locations determined by GPS locators. The information will be relayed daily to Cornell's Ithaca campus and added to a Geographic Information System (GIS) database that will be accessible on the Web through a map of the Mississippi Gulf coast. Initially, the team, which includes experts from the State University of New York at Buffalo, California Institute of Technology, Texas A&M University, the New York State Department of Transportation and a private company called Image Cat Inc., which specializes in satellite imagery, will concentrate on the cities of Biloxi, Gulfport and Long Beach.

Arthur Lembo, a Cornell research associate in crop and soil sciences, developed the database and Web site, similar to one he created in January to assist recovery workers following the devastating tsunami in Sri Lanka. One of the things that helped, he said, was that the state of Mississippi had already made available online an extensive database of geographic information about the state, including roads, schools, hospitals and other infrastructure. "It was there yesterday when I went looking for it," Lembo said, noting that about half of U.S. states make such information available. As the MCEER team reports back, their information will be added to the Mississippi information already in the Cornell GIS database.

To reconstruct a community following a major disaster, you need details: What is the condition of key buildings -- schools, firehouses, hospitals, government centers? Which bridges are usable? What's the condition of the water and power systems? Later, researchers will want to examine the same data to make recommendations on how to make the infrastructure more resistant to damage in the future.

"What we're doing is interesting in that it goes beyond engineering into the social and economic aspects of the communities. This helps to set policy and procedure for emergency response and subsequent recovery of communities," said Thomas O'Rourke, the Thomas R. Briggs Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, who heads Cornell's contingent in MCEER. "Once you put this into GIS, you can immediately combine the damage areas with the social and demographic characteristics of what happened."

GIS systems are based on a standard format for encoding information that is tied to a spatial location and can include everything from physical features of a site to demographics. A GIS database can supply the precise latitude and longitude of a single family home and maybe even tell you who owns it, along with the general economic status of the neighborhood. Data made available in GIS format can be used to make maps, charts and other presentations, which often combine information from a variety of sources. To create the Cornell site, Lembo used a commercial GIS map-making application called Manifold.

Users of the Cornell site can turn the various data sources on and off on a map displaying, for example, hospital locations, roads, waterways or power lines. They may click through to high-resolution satellite images showing the degree of inundation of an area, or digital photos and video taken by the MCEER team of individual buildings, bridges and other key infrastructure components. For the time being, Lembo said, the Web site will be made available only to professionals, to minimize demand on the server. Eventually the site will be accessible through the Equipment link on Cornell's Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation (NEES) site, managed by David Ash, IT specialist in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

MCEER is a consortium of universities funded primarily by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to study ways to reduce infrastructure damage from earthquakes. NEES, also funded by NSF, is a network of laboratories contributing to the MCEER effort. O'Rourke and Harry Stewart, Cornell professor of civil and environmental engineering, are co-principal investigators for Cornell's NEES lab. In recent times MCEER has expanded its scope to include other natural and man-made disasters. "We are going to be learning from the hurricane but with applications to different natural hazards," explained O'Rourke.

MCEER is also supported by New York state, the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), other state governments, academic institutions, foreign governments and private industry. -30-

Cornell News Service: Bill Steele Office: (607) 255-7164 E-Mail: ws21@cornell.edu
Media Contact: Press Relations Office Phone: (607) 255-6074 E-Mail: pressoffice@cornell.edu

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foreign scientists and students affected by Hurricane Katrina

Help for foreign scientists and students affected by Hurricane Katrina

The National Academies have assembled a Web page to assist foreign scientists and students displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The Web page, nationalacademies.org/visas/Katrina, provides easy access to information on visas and lost travel documents, emergency housing, how to contact displaced people, academic assistance for uprooted students and professors, and hiring practices for hurricane evacuees.

The National Academies comprise the National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, Institute of Medicine, and National Research Council. They are private, nonprofit institutions that provide science, technology, and health policy advice under an 1863 congressional charter. For more information, visit nationalacademies.org/. ###

Contact: Vanee Vines news@nas.edu 202-334-2138 The National Academies

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Scientists displaced by Hurricane Katrina

DOE's Office of Science sets up program to aid scientists displaced by Hurricane Katrina

The Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Science has established a program to assist scientists displaced by the effects of Hurricane Katrina.
"Our colleagues in science have historically been a close-knit, generous community," wrote Dr. Raymond L. Orbach, director of DOE's Office of Science, in a letter describing the program to: universities and colleges, including those in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi; professional scientific societies; other government science funding agencies; and DOE National Laboratories.

"The Office of Science would like to help in the effort to ensure that faculty and students displaced by the disaster may continue their research and studies at other institutions," Orbach said.

The Office of Science program will match interested students and faculty researchers with research programs that currently receive Office of Science grants whose researchers wish to host such displaced individuals. The displaced students and researchers may be eligible for assistance whether or not they are currently funded by DOE.

The Office of Science has set up a clearinghouse through DOE's Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education to match displaced individuals with host grant recipients. The Office of Science will consider on a case-by-case basis modest supplemental funding to existing programs in order to facilitate this process.

Displaced students and faculty researchers from affected universities will be able to indicate their interest in being hosted by a grant recipient and complete their request for assistance forms on-line at a clearinghouse website. Interested individuals should visit the clearinghouse website at orau.gov/doeedrelief.

Dr. Orbach's letter may be viewed on the Office of Science homepage at sc.doe.gov.

This program is just one of the Department of Energy's responses to Hurricane Katrina. Additonal information on those responses is available at energy.gov. ###

DOE's Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the nation and ensures U.S. world leadership across a broad range of scientific disciplines.

Contact: Jeff Sherwood jeff.sherwood@hq.doe.gov 202-586-4826 DOE/US Department of Energy
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Egyptian Presidential Election

Egyptian Presidential Election

Secretary Condoleezza Rice, Washington, DC, September 10, 2005

Egypt’s presidential election represents one step in the march towards the full democracy that the Egyptian people desire and deserve. The process that culminated in the September 7 vote was characterized by freer debate, increased transparency, and improved access to the media, in contrast with previous polls. The practice of universal suffrage in Egypt, without limitations on gender and ethnicity, is a hopeful sign for the region. Despite some reports of scattered violence, the Egyptian security forces generally maintained calm.

As Egypt looks towards parliamentary elections in November, we encourage Egyptians to build on progress made with this election and to address valid criticisms of the electoral process. In particular, more needs to be done to increase the voice of the people and their confidence in the democratic process. The presence of international monitors – both domestic and international – with full and timely access to polling stations, would introduce greater transparency and credibility for future elections. All candidates should also be afforded equal access to the media to convey their messages to the Egyptian people. The Government of Egypt should also codify and implement internationally accepted electoral practices, ensure freedom of expression, and protect against intimidation and violence.

President Mubarak now has an opportunity to follow through on several key campaign promises, including a pledge to lift the emergency law. The United States fully supports the democratic aspirations of the Egyptian people as they move towards a more representative democracy. We will stand with Egypt as it makes this journey.

### 2005/853

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National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week, 2005

National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities are places of learning and achievement that reflect our Nation's belief in the great potential of every student. By upholding high standards of excellence and providing equal educational opportunities to all Americans, these valued institutions help ensure that all our citizens can realize their full potential and look forward to a prosperous and hopeful future.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are a source of accomplishment and great pride for the African-American community and our entire Nation. By fostering academic achievement, instilling strong values and character, and equipping students with a quality education, they prepare rising generations for success and help fulfill our country's commitment to equal education.

My Administration is committed to supporting HBCUs and making higher education more affordable and more accessible. To ensure that more students have access to a college or university education, I have requested nearly $300 million for HBCUs in my 2006 budget, a record level of funding that would represent an increase in spending for these institutions by 30 percent during my Administration. Through the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, we are pursuing new ways to strengthen and advance HBCUs through endowments, faculty development, and cooperative research.

America has made significant progress in strengthening our higher education system for all our citizens, and there is more work to do. We continue to strive toward a society in which every person can realize the great promise of America. During National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week, we recognize the contributions of HBCUs, and we acknowledge and celebrate their role in making America a stronger and better Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 11 through September 17, 2005, as National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week. I call on public officials, educators, administrators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that demonstrate our appreciation for the many contributions these valuable institutions and their graduates have made to our country.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, September 9, 2005

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Minority Enterprise Development Week, 2005

Minority Enterprise Development Week, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Across our country, the entrepreneurial spirit of minority businesses is strong and growing. By creating jobs and advancing opportunities, these businesses improve lives and transform neighborhoods throughout our Nation. During Minority Enterprise Development Week, we recognize minority entrepreneurs and their employees for their commitment to free enterprise and equal opportunity.

Minority businesses are an essential part of a society in which personal initiative is encouraged and in which opportunity is within the reach of all of our citizens. Significant increases in minority business ownership are providing an engine for economic growth and helping more of our citizens succeed. By fueling job creation and providing goods and services to consumers, these businesses are helping to lift communities and provide hope.

In order to extend the promise of our country to all of our citizens, our economy must continue to grow and expand. My Administration is working to keep taxes low, protect small businesses from needless regulation and frivolous lawsuits, and reduce global trade barriers to open up new markets for American entrepreneurs. We have provided new market tax credits to boost investment and community development in low income areas, and we are working to stimulate and support minority businesses by providing training and mentoring.

Minority businesses help ensure that our country is a land of opportunity. Their example reflects the best qualities of America, demonstrating that every person has the opportunity to strive for a better future and to take part in the promise of our great Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 11 through September 17, 2005, as Minority Enterprise Development Week. I call upon all Americans to celebrate this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities to recognize the important contributions of our Nation's minority enterprises.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, September 9, 2005

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National Days of Prayer and Remembrance

National Days of Prayer and Remembrance, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Americans will always remember the terrible events and violent cruelty of September 11, 2001. We will always honor the many innocent lives that were lost, and we will never forget the heroism of passengers, first responders, and others on that day. During this year's National Days of Prayer and Remembrance, we pay tribute to the memory of those taken from us in the terrorist attacks in New York, in Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon. We pray for the families left behind who continue to inspire us through their steadfast character, courage, and determination.

In the time since September 11, 2001, Americans have come together to defend America and advance freedom. We are grateful to our brave men and women in uniform who are making daily sacrifices at home and at posts around the globe, and we pray for their safety as they defend our liberty. In the war on terror, we have lost good men and women who left our shores to protect our way of life and did not live to make the journey home. We honor their memories, and we pray for their families.

The war that began for America on September 11, 2001, continues to call on the courage of our men and women in uniform and the perseverance of our citizens. The past 4 years have brought many challenges and sacrifices, yet we have much reason to be thankful and hopeful about the future. America has become more secure as terrorists have been brought to justice, two of the most brutal and aggressive regimes have ended, and freedom has spread in the Middle East and around the world. In the months and years ahead, we will continue to defend our freedom and lay the foundations of peace for our children and grandchildren.

During these Days of Prayer and Remembrance, we give thanks to the Almighty for our freedom, and we acknowledge our dependence on the Giver of this gift. Four years after September 11, 2001, we remember the lives lost and pray for God's continued blessings on their families and our Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Friday, September 9, through Sunday, September 11, 2005, as National Days of Prayer and Remembrance. I ask that the people of the United States and places of worship mark these National Days of Prayer and Remembrance with memorial services and other appropriate ceremonies.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, September 9, 2005

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Patriot Day, 2005

Patriot Day, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Four years have passed since our country was brutally attacked on a quiet September morning. On that day, thousands of innocent lives were taken from us. The victims and the families who lost loved ones remain in the hearts and prayers of our Nation. We also remember the courage of the firefighters, police officers, emergency rescue personnel, and scores of private citizens who showed us the true meaning of heroism and demonstrated our resolve to the world.

The mission that began on September 11, 2001, continues. Today, we see the virtue of the September 11th heroes embodied in our military personnel, who are taking the fight to our enemies and helping to keep us safe at home. Thousands of other Americans, from intelligence analysts to border guards to countless others, are doing vital work to help defend America and prevent future attacks. We are grateful to all of these men and women and to their families for their service and sacrifice. We honor those who have lost their lives defending our freedom, and we pray that God comfort their families. We pledge that we will not rest until we have won the war on terror.

As we mark this solemn anniversary, I call upon all our citizens to express their patriotism and their gratitude for the blessings of liberty. By flying the flag, supporting military families, and teaching young people about our founding ideals, we honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and since, and we help preserve our freedom for future generations.

By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107 89), the Congress has designated September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2005, as Patriot Day. I call upon the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half staff on Patriot Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe Patriot Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities, including remembrance services, to display the flag at half staff from their homes on that day, and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. eastern daylight time to honor the innocent victims who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, September 9, 2005

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Freedom Calendar 09/10/05 - 09/17/05

September 10, 1877, Birth of Georgia Douglas Johnson, celebrated African-American poet of Harlem Renaissance movement; she served as Labor Department official during the Coolidge and Hoover administrations.

September 11, 1866, Birth of African-American Republican Charles Scrutchin; successfully defended 6 African-Americans arrested after a mob in Minnesota lynched 3 of their companions.

September 12, 1868, Civil rights activist Tunis Campbell and all other African-Americans in Georgia Senate, every one a Republican, expelled by Democrat majority; would later be reinstated by Republican Congress.

September 13, 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaims first National Hispanic Heritage Week.

September 14, 1874, Democrat white supremacists seize Louisiana statehouse in attempt to overthrow racially-integrated administration of Republican Governor William Kellogg; 27 killed.

September 15, 1981, President Ronald Reagan establishes the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, to increase African-American participation in federal education programs.

September 16, 1949, Death of African-American Republican and women’s rights activist Hallie Quinn Brown, instrumental in rallying women of all races to support Republican candidates.

September 17, 1971, Former Ku Klux Klan member and Democrat U.S. Senator Hugo Black (D-AL) retires from U.S. Supreme Court; appointed by FDR in 1937, he had defended Klansmen for racial murders.

"The first Republican I knew was my father and he is still the Republican I most admire. He joined our party because the Democrats inJim Crow Alabama of 1952 would not register him to vote. The Republicans did. My father has never forgotten that day, and neither have I."

Condoleezza Rice

SOURCE: 2005 Republican Freedom Calendar more at Freedom Calendar or Republican and Republicans

bush radio address 09/10/05 full audio, text transcript

bush radio address 09/10/05 full audio, text transcript

President's Radio Address

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. On Sunday, our nation will observe the fourth anniversary of the September the 11th terrorist attacks. Every American has memories of that day that will never leave them. We remember the images of fire and terror at the Pentagon, in Pennsylvania, and in the heart of New York City.

We remember the ruthlessness of those who murdered the innocent and took joy in their suffering. We remember the courage of the police and firefighters and rescue personnel who rushed into burning buildings to save lives, knowing they might never emerge. And we remember the victims -- moms and dads, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives -- and the loved ones they left behind.

As night fell on America on September the 11th, 2001, we felt grief and great sorrow. Yet we also saw that, while the terrorists could kill the innocent, they could not defeat the spirit of our nation. The despair and tragedy of that day were overcome by displays of selflessness, courage and compassion.

And in the days and weeks that followed, America answered history's call to bring justice to our enemies and to ensure the survival and success of liberty. And that mission continues today.

Four years later, Americans remember the fears and uncertainty and confusion of that terrible morning. But above all, we remember the resolve of our nation to defend our freedom, rebuild a wounded city, and care for our neighbors in need.

Today, America is confronting another disaster that has caused destruction and loss of life. This time the devastation resulted not from the malice of evil men, but from the fury of water and wind.

Hurricane Katrina flattened entire towns along our Gulf Coast, and left one of America's most storied cities under water. Tens of thousands have lost homes and loved ones and all their earthly possessions. The storm took countless lives and forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee from their communities with no assurance of returning soon.

Once more our hearts ache for our fellow citizens, and many are left with questions about the future. Yet we are again being reminded that adversity brings out the best in the American spirit. In this time of great suffering, we have seen the courage and determination of rescue personnel who willingly risk their lives to save the lives of others. We have seen the spirit of America's armies of compassion who have rallied in response to this tragedy. Faith-based organizations and community groups and individual citizens across the country are caring for those affected by the storm, and comforting those whose loved ones are lost or missing. Across our country, Americans are generously opening their homes and hearts to their brothers and sisters in need.

To find out how you can help, I urge you to visit usafreedomcorps.gov, or call 1-877-USA CORPS. The citizens of the Gulf Coast can count on their fellow Americans in this time of trial, and their government is standing with them, as well.

This week I signed legislation providing an additional $52 billion for response and recovery efforts. We have already begun distributing $2,000 in emergency relief to every displaced household, money they can use immediately for food, clothing and other essentials. I have also called for all people from disaster areas to be granted special evacuee status, making it easier for them to collect federal benefits like food stamps and Medicaid wherever they are in America.

We are assisting the victims of Hurricane Katrina, and we will help the people of the Gulf Coast recover from adversity. Despite all they've endured, the people of that region are determined to rebuild their homes and reclaim their lives, and their fellow Americans are determined to help them. To accomplish the difficult work ahead of us, our nation will call upon our vast resources and the ingenuity of our citizens, and these will be required in full measure.

Our greatest resource in such times is the compassionate character of the American people, because even the most destructive storm cannot weaken the heart and soul of our nation. America will overcome this ordeal, and we will be stronger for it.

Even in the deepest darkness, we can see the light of hope, and the light shows us the way forward. We will honor the memory of those we have lost; we will comfort the victims of Katrina; and we will make the Gulf Coast more vibrant than ever.

In all that lies before us, may God watch over the United States of America. Thank you for listening

For Immediate Release, September 10, 2005

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9/11 Medal of Valor Award (VIDEO)

President Remembers 9/11 Heroes at Medal of Valor Award Ceremony, FULL STREAMING VIDEO, The South Lawn, 1:00 P.M. EDT

President George W. Bush embraces one of the hundreds of family and friends who gathered on the South Lawn of the White House, Friday, Sept. 9, 2005, during the 9/11 Heroes Medal of Valor Award Ceremony,

in honor of the courage and commitment of emergency services personnel who died on Sept. 11, 2001. White House photo by Paul Morse

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all very much. (Applause.) Thank you. Welcome to the White House. Laura and I are honored that you're here today. We recognize a group of Americans whose bravery and commitment to their fellow citizens showed us the true meaning of heroism.

The 442 names you just heard belong to men and women of uncommon valor and decency and honor. On one of the worst days our country has ever witnessed, we witnessed the courage of some of the finest people our country has ever produced. And their sacrifice will always be remembered.

I want to thank the Attorney General. I welcome members of the United States Congress and the United States Senate who have joined us -- Bill Frist, Senator Schumer, Congressman Fossella, Congressman Crowley. By the way, thank you for bringing your mother. Congressman Wolf, Congressman Smith, Congressman King, Congressman McCarthy, Congressman Israel. I want to thank Ray Kelly, the Police Commissioner of the great city of New York. (Applause.) I thank all the fire chiefs, police chiefs, and Port Authority personnel. I particularly want to thank the men and women who are on the front line of making us safe -- thank you all for coming today. (Applause.)

The 9/11 Heroes Medal of Valor honors the public safety officers who gave their lives on September the 11th. On that day, firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians, Port Authority personnel and other public safety officers performed their jobs with extraordinary distinction in the face of unspeakable terror.

We're grateful to the families and friends who have come here to honor their memory. We know that the sense of loss you feel does not disappear with time. Four years later, you still miss your loved ones. America admires your courage in the face of such terrible pain. And your loved ones will always have the thanks and admiration and respect of a grateful nation.

When America has been challenged, there has always been citizens willing to step forward and risk their lives for the rest of us. Over the last 11 days in Louisiana and Mississippi and Alabama, we have again seen acts of great compassion and extraordinary bravery from America's first responders. Firefighters and police, and U.S. Coast Guard men and women, and National Guardsmen and active duty forces, disaster and medical assistance teams, search and rescue units from all over the United States have descended on the Gulf Coast to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina. They have faced the storm's destruction with valor and determination, and their hard work has saved lives in the face of great adversity.

We're still at the beginning of a huge effort. The tasks before us are enormous. Yet so is the heart of the United States. We're grateful to the emergency personnel -- (applause.) We are grateful to the emergency personnel who are working to assist victims and restore communities affected by this disaster. In these difficult days, we have again seen the great strength and character and resolve of America. And we will continue to work to help the people who are struggling.

In every community we depend on those who carry the badge, who keep the peace and protect our citizens. And in times of national crisis, all Americans are grateful to those who answer the alarms and run toward danger and provide urgent care. Those who place their own lives at risk for others must be recognized and honored by their fellow citizens.

And four years ago, America saw the unparalleled heroism of our nation's public safety officers. We lost brave rescue workers who gave their lives so that others could live. We lost many other citizens who assisted in the rescue efforts, and whose courage and sacrifice that day made them extraordinary.

On September the 11th, 2001, America lost Firefighter Donny Regan of Rescue Company 3 in Bronx. During his 17-year career with the New York City Fire Department he was cited six times for bravery. And today, our nation honors Donny's final act of courage. His son, Peter, lost a father on September the 11th; today, he carries on his father's legacy. Peter followed his dad's footsteps to the fire department. Today he is defending our freedom as a reservist with the 3rd Battalion 25th Marine Regiment in Iraq. (Applause.)

On September the 11th, 2001, America lost Firefighter Ronnie Gies of Squad 288 in Queens. Ronnie had been with the New York Fire Department since 1988. He rushed downtown to the World Trade Center. A video of the day showed Ronnie on his way into the towers. His wife said, "You see him straight on, carrying equipment, with such a look of determination." His own son, Tommy, graduated from the FDNY Academy last August, and is now a member of Ladder 147 in Brooklyn. And we're grateful for Tommy's courage and service. (Applause.)

On September the 11th, 2001, America lost Senior Court Officer Thomas Jurgens, one of about 25 New York State Court officers who responded after the plane hit the first tower. Thomas' last radio transmission came from inside the burning tower, after he'd been warned to get out because the danger was too great. He refused to leave his post. His last words before signing off were, "There are people here who need our help."


On September the 11th, 2001, America lost New York City Police Officer Moira Smith. Moira is remembered by friends for her fearless spirit on and off the job. She ran with the bulls in Spain. And in 1991, she ran into a subway tunnel to rescue dozens of people trapped in one of the worst subway accidents in New York history. On September the 11th, 2001, she ran toward danger once again, into the burning towers of the World Trade Center. A broker she helped to safety remembers her steady blue eyes and her even voice. The next day's papers carried an image of Moira helping an injured man out of the tower, before she rushed back in to save others. And the tower collapsed around her. One of Moira's colleagues said, "She could have saved herself, but nothing would have stopped her saving one more person."

These are some of the examples, only a few of the examples, of the extraordinary bravery that took place that day. All the brave men and women we recognize today brought credit to the uniform, and honor to the United States of America. (Applause.)

And one way our nation can honor their sacrifice is to win the war on terror. (Applause.) On September the 11th, 2001, we saw the future that terrorists intend for us. And I made a decision: America will not wait to be attacked again. We will take the fight to the enemy, and we'll defend our freedom. (Applause.)

Since that day we've taken the fight to the enemy. We're hunting down the terrorists in mountains in Afghanistan, in tribal regions of Pakistan, in the deserts of Iraq, and on islands of Southeast Asia, and the Horn of Africa. We're fighting the terrorists and we're fighting their murderous ideology, by spreading the hope of freedom across the broader Middle East. Free nations are peaceful nations, and by advancing freedom's cause, we are laying the foundation of peace for our children and our grandchildren. (Applause.)

We will succeed. And the legacy of peace and freedom we leave behind will be the greatest memorial to your fallen family members and friends. (Applause.)

The heroes of September the 11th will not be here to see that day. But their moms and dads and children and grandchildren can know a proud America will always stand in the long shadow of their service and sacrifice, and a proud nation will always remember them.

May God bless you all, and may God forever bless the memories of those who sacrificed on behalf of our citizens. (Applause.)

END 1:24 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, September 9, 2005

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National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina

UPDATE: Thursday, February 02, 2006 Bush, Bono, National Prayer Breakfast - FULL STREAMING VIDEO, President Attends 54th Annual National Prayer Breakfast, Hilton Washington Hotel, Washington, D.C., 9:09 A.M. EST.

Proclamation by the President: National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Hurricane Katrina was one of the worst natural disasters in our Nation's history and has caused unimaginable devastation and heartbreak throughout the Gulf Coast Region. A vast coastline of towns and communities has been decimated. Many lives have been lost, and hundreds of thousands of our fellow Americans are suffering great hardship. To honor the memory of those who lost their lives, to provide comfort and strength to the families of the victims, and to help ease the burden of the survivors, I call upon all Americans to pray to Almighty God and to perform acts of service.

As we observe a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina, we pledge our support for those who have been injured and for the communities that are struggling to rebuild. We offer thanks to God for the goodness and generosity of so many Americans who have come together to provide relief and bring hope to fellow citizens in need. Our Nation is united in compassion for the victims and in resolve to overcome the tremendous loss that has come to America. We will strive together in this effort, and we will prevail through perseverance and prayer.

Americans are reaching out to those who suffer by opening their hearts, homes, and communities. Their actions demonstrate the greatest compassion one person may show to another: to love your neighbor as yourself. Across our Nation, so many selfless deeds reflect the promise of the Scripture: "For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in." I encourage all Americans to respond with acts of kindness in the days ahead. By contributing time, money, or needed goods to a relief organization and by praying for the survivors and those in recovery efforts, we can make a tremendous difference in the lives of those in need.

Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath resulted in a considerable loss of life. We pray that God will bless the souls of the lost, and that He will comfort their families and friends and all lives touched by this disaster. As the American people unite to help those who are hurting, we share a determination to stand by those affected by Hurricane Katrina in the months and years ahead as they rebuild their lives and reclaim their future. We are determined that the Gulf Coast region will rise again. The tasks before us are enormous, and so is the heart of America. We will continue to comfort and care for the survivors. We will once again show the world that the worst adversities bring out the best in the American people.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Friday, September 16, 2005, as a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina. I ask that the people of the United States and places of worship mark this National Day of Prayer and Remembrance with memorial services and other appropriate observances. I also encourage all Americans to remember those who have suffered in the disaster by offering prayers and giving their hearts and homes for those who now, more than ever, need our compassion and our support.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, September 8, 2005

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Karen Hughes at Swearing-In (VIDEO)

President Honors Ambassador Karen Hughes at Swearing-In Ceremony, United States Department of State, Washington, D.C. 10:17 A.M. EDT

SECRETARY RICE: Good morning. Thank you. Thank you very much, and welcome to the State Department for the swearing in of Karen Hughes as Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Ambassador for the same.

I'm delighted to be here in the company of so many people who mean so much, first of all, to the United States of America, but probably, more importantly, to Karen. We are joined today by Jerry Hughes, Karen's husband; her son, Robert Hughes, who I just have to say is on his way to Stanford University as a freshman -- (laughter) -- by Lauren Doggett, her daughter; Leigh Doggett, her granddaughter; Beverly Byrd, her sister; Nancy Bell, her sister-in-law; Kim Barnard, her niece; Jim Unger, her cousin; Val Unger, her cousin; and Chandler Bell, her grandnephew.

We, of course, also are joined, most importantly, by the President of the United States and Mrs. Bush. I'll turn to the President in a moment to swear Karen in, but thank you, especially, Mrs. Bush, for joining us. (Applause.)

We're joined also by a number of members of the Cabinet: Secretary Gale Norton, Secretary Alphonso Jackson, Secretary Norm Mineta, Secretary Margaret Spellings, and Director for National Intelligence, John Negroponte; by a number of members of the diplomatic corps. Thank you Ambassador Antoine from Grenada, Ambassador Jawad from Afghanistan, Charg Massoud from Saudi Arabia, and Ambassador Pashayev from Azerbaijan.

And I'd also like to recognize Margaret Tutwiler, a former Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy.

Mr. President, we appreciate greatly your coming to swear in Karen Hughes, your friend and confident, and person that you have chosen to lead this important public diplomacy effort for the United States of America.

Mr. President, all Americans in the world are grateful for your commitment and your dedication to the nonnegotiable demands of human dignity, to the fact that you believe, as Americans do, that democracy and liberty and freedom are the birthright of every man and woman around the world. And that is the message that we will try to get out in a better fashion, a more effective fashion. And I think with Karen Hughes leading the effort, we will be able to show the world the true heart of America, and people will understand that we mean it when we say that Americans believe that there is no corner of the Earth that should have to live in tyranny, and that every man and woman should bask in freedom.

Mr. President, thank you for joining us. (Applause.)

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Madame Secretary, thank you. Thank you for the fine leadership you're providing for our country. Laura and I are pleased to be back here at the State Department, and we're really pleased to be here to honor our new Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Ambassador Karen Hughes. (Applause.)

It's good to see many of Karen's friends here today, particularly those from Texas. Welcome. I want to say something about her family, her husband Jerry, and Robert and Leigh and Lauren. I want to thank you very much for supporting Karen. It is a real blessing for this country that she has decided to come back and serve. And I know she would not have done that without your support, so thank you all very much.

We're in a war on terror. We are still at war. And to succeed in this war, we must effectively explain our policies and fundamental values to people around the world. This is an incredibly important mission. And so I've asked one of America's most talented communicators to take it on.

Karen Hughes has been one of my closest and most trusted advisors for more than a decade. She understands the miracle of America. She understands what we stand for. After all, she's lived it. Her grandfather was a Pennsylvania coal miner. She's a working mom who rose to serve at the highest levels of our government. She has a compassionate heart, a brilliant mind, and a deep love for America. I can think of no one better to share the American experience with the world than Karen Hughes.

I want to thank my Cabinet Secretaries who are here. I appreciate you taking time out of your day to come and honor our friend. Don't hesitate to get back to work. We've got a lot to do. (Laughter.) I appreciate General Dick Myers, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, who's with us. I want to thank John Negroponte who is joining us, as well. And thank you all.

America is a strong and resilient nation. Our people have the spirit, the resources and the determination to overcome any challenge. And today this nation faces enormous challenges at home and abroad.

At this moment, our fellow citizens along the Gulf Coast are struggling to recover from one of the worst natural disasters in our country's history. Many thousands have lost their homes. They've lost their loved ones. They've lost all their earthly possessions. The disaster area is larger than the size of Great Britain. Towns and communities have been flattened. One of our great cities has been submerged.

In this time of struggle, the American people need to know we're not struggling alone. I want to thank the members of the diplomatic corps who are with us today. I want to thank the world community for its prayers and for the offers of assistance that have come from all around the world. The outpouring of compassion and support has been substantial.

Think of this, Afghanistan has pledged a hundred thousand dollars to aid -- in aid to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Ambassador, thank you. Canada has sent ships with disaster supplies. Air Canada -- Air Canada's planes assisted in the evacuation. Israel sent tents and mineral water and medical supplies. Italy has sent beds and sheets and blankets and inflatable rafts to help with rescue efforts. Kuwait has pledged $400 million in oil and a hundred million dollars in humanitarian aid. Qatar and the UAE has pledged $100 million each. Sri Lanka, one of the world's most impoverished nations that is struggling to overcome the effects of the tsunami, has sent a donation of $25,000.

In all, more than a hundred countries have stepped forward with offers of assistance, and additional pledges of support are coming in every day. To every nation in every province and every local community across the globe that is standing with the American people, and with those who hurt on the Gulf Coast, our entire nation thanks you for your support.

Four years ago, the American people saw a similar outpouring of sympathy and support when another tragedy struck our nation, the terrorist attacks of September the 11th, 2001. This Sunday, Americans will mark the fourth anniversary of that terrible day when nearly 3,000 innocent people were murdered. The attacks took place on American soil, yet they left grieving families on virtually every continent. Citizens from dozens of nations were killed on September the 11th. Innocent men and women and children of every race and every religion.

And in the four years since the September the 11th attacks, the terrorists have continued to kill -- in Madrid and Istanbul and Jakarta and Casablanca, in Riyadh, in Bali, in Baghdad, in London, in Sharm-el-Sheikh and elsewhere.

In the war on terror, the world's civilized nations face a common enemy, an enemy that hates us, because of the values we hold in common. The terrorists have a strategy: They want to force those of us who love freedom to retreat, to pull back so they can topple governments in the Middle East and turn that region into a safe haven for terrorism.

To achieve these aims, they kill the innocent because they believe that all human life is expendable. And that stands in stark contrast to what we believe. We believe human life is a precious gift from our Creator. Every nation that shares this belief shares the belief in human rights and human dignity, shares a stake in the outcome of this struggle. Every nation that believes that human rights and human dignity applies to every man, woman and child shares a responsibility in ensuring our victory over the terrorists.

We're on a hunt for the terrorists. We are striking them in foreign lands before they can hurt our citizens again. Yet we know that this war will not be won by force of arms alone. We must defeat the terrorists on the battlefield, and we must also defeat them in the battle of ideas.

As Prime Minister Blair said after the London attacks, we must not fight just the terrorists' methods, but also their views; not just their barbaric acts, but also their barbaric ideas. In the long run, the only way to achieve lasting peace is to offer a hopeful alternative to the terrorist ideology of hatred and fear.

By spreading the hope of freedom across the broader Middle East, Condi and Karen -- or should I say Madam Secretary and the Ambassador -- understand that spreading the message of freedom requires an aggressive effort to share and communicate America's fundamental values.

And so they have an ambitious agenda to carry out. First, I've asked them to marshal all the resources of the federal government to this critical mission. Public diplomacy is the job of every member of my administration. As the Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Karen will direct the State Department's efforts to communicate with the world, and at the same time, she will coordinate the work of our administration in support of this vital mission, ensuring that every agency and department gives public diplomacy the same level of priority that I do.

Second, I've asked the State Department to enlist the support of the private sector in our nation's public diplomacy efforts. The experienced diplomats in this room will be the first to tell you, the American people are some of our nation's best ambassadors. We must find ways to utilize their talents and skills more effectively. Everyone who travels abroad or welcomes an exchange student into their home is an ambassador for America. And we need more of our citizens involved in our public diplomacy.

Third, I've asked the State Department to improve our government's capabilities to confront terrorist propaganda quickly, before myths have time to take root in the hearts and minds of people across the world. Listen, our enemies use lies. They use lies to recruit and train and indoctrinate. So Karen and her team have a vital task. They must ensure that the terrorist lies are challenged aggressively, and that our government is prepared to respond to false accusations and propaganda immediately.

Finally, I've asked the State Department to encourage Americans to learn about the languages and cultures of the broader Middle East. In the early days of the Cold War, our government undertook an intensive effort to encourage young Americans to study Russian language and history and culture so we could better understand the aspirations of the Russian people and the psychology of those who oppressed them. I've got to tell you, it's impressive to be with Condi, when you're with the Russian officials, to hear her speak the Russian language. She was a part of that initiative. Today the struggle for freedom has shifted to a new region of the world, and we need a similar effort to educate our people about the broader Middle East.

We must encourage young scholars to study the great history and traditions of the region. We need skilled linguists who can communicate with their people so we can engage in a fruitful dialogue about what it means to live in liberty.

We've living in dangerous and challenging times, yet this is also a moment of great hope and opportunity. Across the world, hearts and minds are opening to the message of human liberty as never before. In the last two years alone, tens of millions have voted for the first time in Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine and Georgia. And as they claim their freedom, they are inspiring millions more across the broader Middle East. We must encourage their aspirations. We must nurture freedom's progress.

Karen will deliver the message of freedom and humility and compassion and determination. She knows that freedom is not America's gift to the world. She knows that freedom is the Almighty God's gift to every man, woman and child in this world. She will help America seize this moment of opportunity by working with other nations and peoples to replace tyranny with tolerance, and overcome hatred with hope. Together, we're going to help millions achieve the non-negotiable demands of human dignity so they can build a better life for their children, and so we can lay the foundation of peace for our children and grandchildren.

Karen, good luck in your task. May God bless you. (Applause.)

(Under Secretary Hughes is sworn into office.) (Applause.)

THE PRESIDENT: Good luck. (Applause.)

UNDER SECRETARY HUGHES: Thank you all very much. Thank you so much.

Mr. President, I guess, it wouldn't be good for a communicator to stand up and say I'm speechless. (Laughter.) But I'm certainly overwhelmed. Mr. President and First Lady, we're delighted that both of you joined us here at the State Department. Madam Secretary.

I thank all of you for once again giving me the great honor and privilege of serving my country. I thank Your Excellencies for joining us here today. I'm honored you would come. Many Cabinet members, members of Congress, my colleagues from the State Department and the White House, and friends and family -- all for joining us here today.

I was in Austin, Texas, last weekend, and city officials put out a call for volunteers and donations to help us welcome an estimated 5,000 of our Louisiana neighbors who had been left homeless by Hurricane Katrina. I went down to the Convention Center where a couple of volunteers had organized an impromptu donation drop-off line, and I pitched in next to people of all ages and races and backgrounds to help unload what seemed like a nonstop line of cars.

We witnessed an amazing outpouring. We saw big cars with trunks full of just-purchased mattresses and sheets and pillows. And we saw old cars whose -- smaller cars, whose back seats were full of old, worn towels and blankets and cans of food, whatever people could afford to bring. It was an overwhelming display -- I had tears in my eyes several times -- of love and concern and community, as well as concrete help. And it was repeated across Texas and across America.

And during the last week here at the State Department, we've witnessed that same spirit of generosity as governments and people around the world offered helicopters, food, money, tents -- all to help America in our hour of need. And Americans are so grateful to our friends and fellow citizens throughout the world.

As the President mentioned, this weekend we will mark the fourth anniversary of September 11th. And it struck me that in our response to these two tragedies -- one caused by the force of nature, the other by the evil intentions of men -- we have also witnessed something far, far more powerful: our common humanity, the decency that binds us together as civilized human beings, no matter what our nationality or faith. Yes, we saw terrorists who horrifically targeted innocents, and criminals who preyed on the vulnerable. But we saw far, far more people who opened their homes and their hearts to total strangers both here and across our world, and reached out to help others in need.

In our response to terror and tragedy both at home and across the world, we've been reminded that what unites us human beings is so much greater than even the important matters on which we sometimes disagree, and that our ability to differ freely, openly and respectfully is, in itself, something to be celebrated.

I believe there is no more urgent challenge for America's national security and for a more peaceful future for all the world's children than the need to foster greater respect, understanding and a sense of common interest and common values between Americans and people of different countries, cultures and faiths.

Mr. President, I am so honored that you and Secretary Rice had asked me to return to Washington. I once again pledge that I will always speak from the heart, and I will always stand for what you've called the non-negotiable demands of human dignity: the rule of law, limits on the power of the state, respect for women, private property, free speech, equal justice, and religious tolerance.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to each of you who have joined us here today for this special day for me and my family. And I ask for your help and your prayers in the work that's ahead. Thank you so much for being here. (Applause.)

END 10:42 A.M. EDT For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, September 9, 2005

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Statement Homeland Security Michael Chertoff

Statement by Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff

The effort to respond and recover from Hurricane Katrina is moving forward. We are preparing to move from the immediate emergency response phase to the next phase of operations. Importantly, we must have seamless interaction with military forces as we move forward with our critical work in New Orleans and the surrounding parishes. At the same time, we are still in hurricane season and need to be prepared to deal effectively with the possibility of future hurricanes and other disasters.

Therefore, I have directed Mike Brown to return to administering FEMA nationally, and I have appointed Vice Admiral Thad Allen of the Coast Guard as the Principal Federal Official (PFO) overseeing Hurricane Katrina response and recovery effort in the field. Joe Picciano will continue to be deputy PFO in Baton Rouge to support Admiral Allen's efforts.

Hurricane Katrina will go down as the largest natural disaster in American history and Mike has done everything he possibly could to coordinate the federal response to this unprecedented challenge.

I appreciate his work. I also appreciate the tireless efforts of the men and women of FEMA, as well as our federal, state, and local partners.

Vice Admiral Allen is doing an exceptional job, and he has my full support in the important work ahead.

### For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, Contact: 202-282-8010, September 9, 2005

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Vice Admiral Thad W. Allen

Vice Admiral Thad W. Allen, Chief of Staff, U. S. Coast Guard

Vice Admiral Thad W. Allen assumed duties as Chief of Staff , U.S. Coast Guard and Commanding Officer, Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington , DC in May 2002. Vice Admiral Allen oversees general management functions of the Coast Guard. He is also currently the Chairman of the Department of Homeland Security’s Joint Requirements Council.

Prior to this assignment he served as Commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Area, Fifth Coast Guard District; and U.S. maritime Defense Zone, Atlantic where he was the operational commander for all Coast Guard activities in an area of responsibility spanning five Coast Guard Districts, over 14 million square miles, involving 26,000 military and civilian employees, and 27,900 auxiliarists. He served concurrently as Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District, and Commander U.S. Maritime Defense Zone Atlantic. VADM Allen led Atlantic forces in the Coast Guard’s response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001

In his previous flag assignments he commanded the Seventh Coast Guard District and directed all Coast Guard operations in South Carolina , Georgia , most of Florida and throughout the Caribbean ; and was the Coast Guard's Director of Resources, where he was responsible for formulating the Coast Guard's budget, developing long range plans, and managing the Coast Guard's performance plan.

A specialist in operations both in the coastal and offshore environments, Vice Admiral Allen has served in three Coast Guard cutters ANDROSCOGGIN and GALLATIN, and command of the medium endurance cutter CITRUS. His coastal operations command assignments include Captain of the Port / Group Long Island Sound , CT ; Group Atlantic City, NJ, and LORAN Station Lampang, Thailand . Vice Admiral Allen's other assignments included a tour as search and rescue controller in the Greater Antilles Section, San Juan, Puerto Rico; Intelligence Watch Officer at DEA/INS El Paso Intelligence Center, El Paso, TX; Chief Budget Officer, Maintenance and Logistics Command, Atlantic, Governors Island, NY; Deputy Project Manager, Fleet Modernization and Rehabilitation (FRAM) Project, and Assistant Division Chief, Programs Division, Office of the Chief of Staff, Coast Guard Headquarters.

Vice Admiral Allen is a native of Tucson , AZ. He graduated from the U. S. Coast Guard Academy in 1971. He holds a Master of Public Administration degree from the George Washington University and received the 2000 Distinguished Alumni Award. He also holds a Master of Science degree from the Sloan School of Management of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In 2003 Vice Admiral Allen was elected a National Academy of Public Administration Fellow.

Vice Admiral Allen is married to the former Pamela A. Hess of Champaign , IL . She is the Assistant Dean for Student Services at the George Mason University School of Management. They have three grown children, Amanda, Meghan and Lucas and two grandchildren, Zachary and Andrew. Vice Admiral Allen is the son of Clyde and Wilma Allen. Clyde Allen is a retired Coast Guard Chief Damage Controlman and World War II veteran.

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President to New York 60th U.N. General Assembly

President to Travel to New York to Participate in 60th U.N. General Assembly

President Bush will travel to New York September 13-14 to participate in the 60th United Nations General Assembly. The President will host a private reception for leaders on the evening of September 13. On September 14, President Bush will address the High-Level Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly, which will precede the opening of the General Debate. He will also participate in a Security Council Summit; and will meet with Secretary-General Kofi Annan and Ambassador Jan Eliasson, who assumes the presidency of the General Assembly this month, to discuss a range of issues. During the course of the day, the President will stress the United States' commitment to a broad international agenda that recognizes the connection between freedom, democracy, trade and development, and security. To that end, he will meet with leaders from democratic states in support of the recently established U.N. Democracy Fund and sign the Convention for the Suppression of Nuclear Terrorism, as well as attend a luncheon hosted by the Secretary-General.

# # # For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, September 8, 2005

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