Secretary Mineta Launches Holiday Air Travel Disruption Investigation

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

Secretary Mineta Launches Holiday Air Travel Disruption Investigation

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

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

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

Powell South Asia Earthquake and Tsunami

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

powell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ed. FULL TEXT Powell South Asia Earthquake and Tsunami

NOAA INDONESIAN TSUNAMI

tsunami epicenter map

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: NOAA

RELATED

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

Bush Bay of Bengal Earthquake and Tsunami

Statement on Bay of Bengal Earthquake and Tsunami

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

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

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

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

DoD Identifies Army Casualties Dec. 21 in Mosul, Iraq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Belarus Mikhail Marinich Anatoliy Lebedko

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

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

Prosecution of Belarusian Opposition Figure Mikhail Marinich

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

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

2004/1399 [End]

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

For Immediate Release December 25, 2004

President's Radio Address

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for listening, and Merry Christmas. END

barney whitehouse christmas

Where in the White House is Miss Beazley?

barney

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

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

barney 2

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

How Does NORAD Track Santa?

tracking santa

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

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

santa tracking

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

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

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

Presidential Christmas Message, 2004

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

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

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

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

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

Laura joins me in wishing all Americans a Merry Christmas.

GEORGE W. BUSH ###

Secretary Rumsfeld Holiday Visit to Iraq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Donald H. Rumsfeld

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

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

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

Donald H. Rumsfeld 2

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

Donald H. Rumsfeld 3

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

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

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

Donald H. Rumsfeld 4

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

Donald H. Rumsfeld 5

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

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

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

Donald H. Rumsfeld 6

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

Rumsfeld 7

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

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

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

Rumsfeld 8

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

Rumsfeld 9

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

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

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

Rumsfeld 10

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

Statement on House and Senate Resolutions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Command Statement on Mosul attack

22 killed in Explosion at FOB Marez Near Mosul

iraq map

Baghdad, Iraq -- Twenty-two people, including 13 U.S. service members, five U.S. civilians, three Iraqi National Guard members, and one unidentified non-US person, were killed in a terrorist attack on the Multi-National Force-Iraq shortly after noon yesterday in the vicinity of Mosul.

An additional 69 people were injured in the attack, 44 of them members of the U.S. military. Seven are U.S contractors, five are U.S. Defense Department civilians, two are Iraqi civilians, 10 are contractors of other nationalities, and one is of unknown nationality and occupation. Twenty-five of the wounded were treated and returned to duty the same day.

The attack, an explosion, occurred at a dining facility at Forward Operating Base Marez.

A preliminary investigation indicates that the explosion at the U.S. Army dining facility at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Marez in Mosul on Tuesday was likely caused by an improvised explosive device worn by a suicide attacker.

Evidence found at the site includes components normally associated with improvised explosive devices. There was no physical evidence of a rocket, mortar, or other type of indirect fire weapon.

As a result of these findings, LTG Thomas F. Metz, Commanding General, Multi-National Corps - Iraq, has ordered a full investigation to determine the complete facts and circumstances surrounding the attack.

“We deeply regret the injuries and loss of life among our fellow members of the armed forces, our civilian contractors and members of the Iraqi security forces who have committed themselves to helping 25 million Iraqis build a better future,” said Gen. George W. Casey, Jr., Commanding General, Multi-National Force-Iraq. “Our prayers and condolences go out to the loved ones and families of these brave men and women.”

“We will determine exactly what happened at FOB Marez and continue to work to ensure the safety and security of our people and our operating bases.”

Military officials have expected increased violence as insurgents try to intimidate the Iraqi people and disrupt January elections.

“Insurgents are desperate to create the perception that elections are not possible,” said General Casey. “We will not allow terrorist violence to stop progress toward elections.”

Updated information establishes that 22 people were killed in the attack, including 14 U.S. service members, four U.S. civilian contractors, three members of the Iraqi Security Forces, and one unidentified non-US person.

The names of the dead are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Release #0412022i Release #0412023a
Source: Multi-National Force - Iraq and Multi-National Corps - Iraq
More: Suicide Bomber May Have Been Responsible for Mosul Attack

African Growth and Opportunity Act

If you refuse to be made straight when you are green, you will not be made straight when you are dry. African Proverb

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary December 22, 2004

Statement on the African Growth and Opportunity Act

A central component of this Administration's broad commitment to trade liberalization has been to advance hope, opportunity, and prosperity in both developed and developing countries by reducing barriers to trade and investment. In this regard, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is a key pillar of the Administration's policy to spur economic development, alleviate poverty, and encourage trade in sub-Saharan Africa.

On December 21, President Bush determined that the following 36 countries continue to be eligible for economic and trade benefits under AGOA: Angola; Benin; Botswana; Cameroon; Cape Verde; Chad; Republic of the Congo; Democratic Republic of the Congo; Djibouti; Ethiopia; Gabon; The Gambia; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Kenya; Lesotho; Madagascar; Malawi; Mali; Mauritania; Mauritius; Mozambique; Namibia; Niger; Nigeria; Rwanda; So Tome and Principe; Senegal; Seychelles; Sierra Leone; South Africa; Swaziland; Tanzania; Uganda; and Zambia. Burkina Faso was designated as eligible for economic and trade benefits under AGOA on December 10, 2004. The President has removed Cote d'Ivoire from the list of eligible countries.

As required by legislation, this annual determination allows for the provision of certain benefits to those countries that are making continued progress toward a market-based economy, the rule of law, free trade, economic policies that will reduce poverty, and protection of workers' rights. By providing these countries greater access to American markets, AGOA can continue to spur development by fostering new trade and economic opportunities and promoting shared values and shared responsibilities. # # #

Mosul, Iraq Dining Facility

22 Killed, 72 Wounded During Attack on Dining Facility

MNFI	Mosul, Iraq -- Twenty-two people were killed and 72 others wounded following an explosion in a dining facility at Forward Operating Base Marez in southwest Mosul on Dec. 21.

Of the 22 people killed, 14 were U.S. military personnel and the remainder four U.S. civilians and four Iraqi Security Forces. Of the 72 wounded, 51 were U.S. Military personnel and the remainder U.S., other country civilians and ISF. Twenty-nine people have been released from the hospital.

The cause of the explosion is under investigation.

The names of the Soldiers and civilians killed are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Task Force Olympia’s thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost loved ones in yesterday’s tragic attack.

Release #0412022d

President to Germany, Slovak Republic

Before he sets out, the traveler must possess fixed interests and facilities to be served by travel. George Santayana US (Spanish-born) philosopher (1863 - 1952)

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary December 21, 2004

President to Travel to Germany and the Slovak Republic

President Bush will travel to Germany and the Slovak Republic following his meetings on February 22, 2005 with NATO and European Union leaders in Brussels, Belgium. Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder will host the President in Germany on February 23. In addition to a bilateral program in the Slovak Republic on February 24, President Bush will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

President Bush has stressed his desire to work with all of our friends and allies in Europe to promote global development and prosperity, to defeat terrorism, and to encourage freedom and democracy as alternatives to tyranny and terror. This trip, which will be President Bush's first foreign trip following his inauguration, will underscore the President's commitment to building on our shared values of freedom, democracy, and human rights to work closely with European allies and partners on the 21st century challenges we face together. # # #

Experts Investigating Source of Mosul Explosion

By Samantha L. Quigley American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2004 -- Explosives experts are investigating the source of a single, large explosion on a U.S. base in southwest Mosul, Iraq, Task Force Olympia Commander Army Brig. Gen. Carter Ham said in a televised statement.

The blast, which occurred just after noon today in a dining facility, killed more than 20 people and wounded more than 60. Those killed and wounded include U.S. military personnel, U.S. contractors, foreign-national contractors and Iraqi soldiers, Ham said. The military is in the process of notifying their families and units.

Ham said the U.S. soldiers responded in a typical manner -- "with bravery, with unselfish caring for one another."

"In the chaos that followed that attack, there was no differentiation by nationality; whether one wore a uniform or civilian clothes, they were all brothers-in-arms taking care of one another," he said. "And I think that's something that all Americans and, indeed, all Iraqis can be very proud of."

While acknowledging the sadness of the day, Ham said the soldiers would come back from this attack and see that the mission is brought to a successful end.

Related Site: Multinational Force Iraq

Mosul, Iraqi Security Forces Foil Insurgents

Iraqi Security Forces Continue to Foil Insurgent Attacks, School Bus Attacked by Insurgents

Mosul, Iraq (December 18, 2004) – Iraqi Security Forces defeated two separate attacks in Mosul by anti-Iraqi insurgents as they attempted to ambush an Iraqi National Guard patrol and seize a police station in northern Iraq. In addition, anti-Iraqi insurgents attempted to attack a Multi-National Force patrol with a roadside bomb but instead the blast hit and Iraqi school bus killing one student and injuring six.

Insurgents attempted to ambush an Iraqi National Guard patrol with small arms fire in western Mosul. ING soldiers quickly maneuvered on their attackers returning fire and eliminating three while detaining one person. No ING Soldiers sustained injuries during the attack and the detained individual is in custody undergoing questioning.

An Iraqi Police station came under attack by indirect and small arms fire during a coordinated effort by insurgent fighters to overrun the station in western Mosul. The Iraqi Police successfully repelled the attack and detained one person preventing a reoccurrence of the events of November 10 when many police stations were abandoned and later looted. This is the fifth time since November 10 where insurgents have tried but failed to overrun police stations.

Anti-Iraqi insurgents attempted to attack a Multi-National Force patrol with a roadside bomb but instead the blast hit an Iraqi school bus killing one student and injuring six. The attack occurred after a Multi-National Force convoy passed through the area during routine patrols. Multi-National Forces responded with small arms fire killing one insurgent and reported no MNF injuries during the operation.

Also today, a concerned citizen came to Iraqi National Guard Soldiers in Mosul and provided them with information that led to a dump truck attempting to transport a large supply of explosives in eastern Mosul. ING soldiers detained the driver for further questioning and confiscated the explosives for future destruction.

Release #0412018i source multi-national force-iraq

PAT ROBERTS (R-KS) INTEL CHAIRMAN

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIPS FOR 109TH CONGRESS ANNOUNCED; SENATOR PAT ROBERTS (R-KS)TO CONTINUE AS INTEL CHAIRMAN

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) announced Republican committee memberships for the 109th Congress. Senator Pat Roberts will continue as the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence’s Chairman.

Senator Roberts said, "I am pleased and honored that the Leader has entrusted me with this continuing responsibility. We must continue to improve our nation's ability to collect and analyze reliable intelligence information. I see the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence playing a critical role in that effort especially in light of the changes made by the recent intelligence reform bill. The Committee will actively oversee the implementation of the reforms and also hold confirmation hearings on a number of new intelligence officials. I intend to continue the Committee's involvement in all facets of our Intelligence Community including the newly created position of Director of National Intelligence. It is also my strong desire to keep politics out of the Committee and its oversight. The Committee is a valuable tool that is most effective when it is focused on intelligence issues and not on political issues."

Senator Roberts was scheduled to depart the Intelligence Committee after completing an eight-year term. Late in the year, however, the Senate repealed the Committee's term limits in response to a 9-11 Commission recommendation. Members of the Committee now serve without limitation as they do on other so-called "A" committees. In a change also enacted this year, Majority Leader Bill Frist was granted the authority to name the Chairman of the Committee. Today, the Leader tapped the Kansas republican to remain at the Committee's helm.

Senator Frist also announced that all but one member, Senator John Warner, will be returning as members of the Committee. Senator Warner will assume the status of an ex officio member under the changes made earlier this year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 12/20/04 CONTACT: BILL DUHNKE PHONE: (202) 224-1700

President's Press Conference 12/20/04

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary December 20, 2004

President Holds Press Conference FULL STREAMING VIDEO

bush press1

Dwight DC Eisenhower Executive Office Building Room 450 President's Remarks 10:32 A.M. EST THE PRESIDENT: Good morning, and happy holidays to you all. I thought I'd come and answer some of your questions.

Before I do so, I've got a statement I'd like to make.

We're nearing the end of a year where -- of substantial progress at home and here -- and abroad. In 2004, the United States grew in prosperity, enhanced our security and served the cause of freedom and peace. Our duties continue in the new year; I'm optimistic about achieving results. America's economy is on solid footing, growth is strong and the nation's entrepreneurs have generated more than 2 million jobs in this year alone.

There's more we must do to keep this economy flexible, innovative and competitive in the world. In a time of change we must reform systems that were created to meet the needs of another era. Soon I will appoint a citizens panel to recommend ways we can transform the outdated tax code. I'll work with the new Congress to make health care more accessible and affordable, to reform the legal system, to raise standards of achievement in public schools -- especially our high schools -- and to fix the Social Security system for our children and our grandchildren.

Early in the year, I will also submit a budget that fits the times. We will provide every tool and resource for our military, we'll protect the homeland and we'll meet other priorities of the government. My budget will maintain strict discipline and the spending of tax dollars, and keep our commitment to cutting the deficit in half over five years.

All of these goals require the energy and dedication of members of both political parties. Working in a spirit of bipartisanship, we will build the foundation of a stronger, more prosperous country. We'll meet our obligations to future generations as we do so.

bush press 2

Our duties to future generations include a sustained effort to protect our country against new dangers. Last week, I signed legislation that continues the essential reorganization of our government by improving the nation's intelligence operations. Because we acted, our vast intelligence enterprise will be more unified, coordinated and effective than ever before. And the American people will be more secure as a result.

Our country is also safer because of the historic changes that have come around the world in places like Afghanistan. This year brought the first presidential election in the 5,000 year history of that country. And the government of President Hamid Karzai is a steadfast ally in the war on terror. President Karzai and the Afghan people can be certain of America's continued friendship and America's support as they build a secure and hopeful democracy.

In Iraq, a people that endured decades of oppression are also preparing to choose their own leaders. Next month, Iraqis will go to the polls and express their will in free elections. Preparations are underway for an energetic campaign, and the participation is wide and varied. More than 80 parties and coalitions have been formed, and more than 7,000 candidates have registered for the elections. When Iraqis vote on January the 30th, they will elect 275 members to a transitional national assembly, as well as local legislatures throughout the country.

bush press 3

The new national assembly will be responsible for drafting a constitution for a free Iraq. By next October, the constitution will be submitted to the people for ratification. If it is approved, then, by December, the voters of Iraq will elect a fully democratic constitutional government.

My point is, the elections in January are just the beginning of a process, and it's important for the American people to understand that. As the Iraqi people take these important steps on the path to democracy, the enemies of freedom know exactly what is at stake. They know that a democratic Iraq will be a decisive blow to their ambitions, because free people will never choose to live in tyranny.

And so the terrorists will attempt to delay the elections, to intimidate people in their country, to disrupt the democratic process in any way they can. No one can predict every turn in the months ahead, and I certainly don't expect the process to be trouble-free. Yet, I am confident of the result, I'm confident the terrorists will fail, the elections will go forward, and Iraq will be a democracy that reflects the values and traditions of its people.

America and our coalition have a strategy in place to aid the rise of a stable democracy in Iraq. To help the Iraqi government provide security during the election period, we will increase U.S. troop strength. Coalition forces will continue hunting the terrorists and the insurgents. We will continue training Iraqi security forces so the Iraqi people can eventually take responsibility for their own security.

We have a vital interest in the success of a free Iraq. You see, free societies do not export terror. Free governments respect the aspirations of their citizens and serve their hopes for a better life. Free nations are peaceful nations. And free nations in the heart of the Middle East will show what is possible to others who want to live in a free society.

In Iraq and elsewhere we've asked a great deal of the men and women of our Armed Forces. Especially during this holiday season, those on duty far from home will be in our thoughts and our prayers. Our people in uniform and our military families are making many sacrifices for our country. They have the gratitude of our whole country.

Now, I will be glad to answer some questions. Hunt.

President's Press Conference 12/20/04 FULL TEXT

TIME NAMES BUSH PERSON OF THE YEAR

bush time

TIME NAMES PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH 2004 PERSON OF THE YEAR Sunday, Dec. 19, 2004 New York – President George W. Bush has been named TIME magazine’s 2004 Person of the Year.

“For sticking to his guns (literally and figuratively), for reshaping the rules of politics to fit his ten-gallon-hat leadership style and for persuading a majority of voters this time around that he deserved to be in the White House for another four years, we name George W. Bush as TIME’s Person of the Year for 2004,” writes managing editor Jim Kelly in a letter to readers.

Bush has “had his highs and lows, with approval ratings at one point hitting 90% and then sinking to 46% as the war in Iraq kept claiming American lives. Even some of his strongest supporters never considered him the odds-on favorite to win a second term. But in the end, George W. Bush prevailed,” Kelly writes.

TIME’s double issue on newsstands for two weeks beginning Monday, Dec. 20th.

Oval Office Interview: In an interview with TIME’s Matt Cooper, John Dickerson and Nancy Gibbs in the oval office, Bush says he thinks “More highly” of all his White House predecessors. He says, “I’ve got a much better appreciation of what they’ve been through, some more than others. My appreciation for Lincoln has grown immeasurably. He is a President who was a visionary for the good of the country. I’ve got his painting right there. And he’s there because he had this great vision about a United States of America in incredibly difficult times.”

Bush tells TIME, “Baseball now must get its act cleaned up (in regards to steroids). And they’ve heard a warning signal from Senator John McCain that said, “Clean it up in a meaningful way, or we will.” My hope is that they do. But I will sign legislation if McCain can get it to my desk.” The full interview transcript is available on TIME.com.

Interview with Former President and First Lady: “Michael Moore’s got to be the worst for me,” former President George H.W. Bush tells TIME’s Hugh Sidey when asked about the low point of this last term. “I mean, he’s such a slimeball and so atrocious. But I love the fact now that the Democrats are not embracing him as theirs anymore. He might not get invited to sit in Jimmy Carter’s box (at the Democratic Convention) again. I wanted to get up my nerve to ask Jimmy Carter at the Clinton thing (the opening of Bill Clinton’s library), ‘How did it feel being there with that marvelous friend of yours, Michael Moore?’ and I didn’t dare do it.” See separate press release.

The Bush Dynasty: TIME’s Matt Cooper examines how the Bush family has endured and who’s next in line.

The Strategist: Karl Rove: TIME profiles Bush adviser Karl Rove who talks about his relationship with his boss and discusses his own mother’s suicide in 1981. He tells TIME’s Karen Tumulty, “It’s hard to figure out. You can speculate on what demons she just wasn’t able to overcome, but she couldn’t. And it’s very sad for my sisters, who were very close to her.” Rove recalls that Bush “was a certain way in 1988, and he was significantly different by 1990, 1992, 1994.

I think it’s his own life experience, waking up and saying ‘I’m not going to drink because it saps my energy and drains my focus.’ I think it’s the freedom of being, ironically, his own self in the aftermath of his father’s defeat in ’92. I don’t know. You could psychoanalyze it. Clearly, he’s always had incredible abilities, (but) he had a stronger focus and a discipline. He brought all of his many talents to bear after he went through—I suspect like all of us do—something that changed his center of life,” Rove tells TIME. See separate press release.

TIME Poll: In the first TIME Poll since November’s election, just under half of Americans (49%) approve of President George W. Bush’s performance, about the same as before the election. Bush’s election victory also has not brightened the nation’s outlook, according to the latest poll numbers. Half of Americans (50%) still think that the country is headed in the wrong direction, not much changed since the pre-election period. Only 40% see the country on the right track. See separate press release.

JOE KLEIN: The Benetton-Ad Presidency: In his column, TIME’s Joe Klein writes, “In a way, President Bush is the beneficiary of 40 years of Democratic policy—not just affirmative action, which helped create a broader, deeper pool of successful nonwhite college graduates, but also the Democratic Party’s historic support for civil rights legislation, the feminist revolution and the easing of strict immigration policies in the 1960s, policies long opposed by many Republicans. But the Bush Cabinets have also been very much a reflection of who George W. Bush is and always has been.” See separate press release.

The Filmakers: Mel Gibson and Michael Moore: While former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich says that the ongoing struggle for the definition of America can be described as “Michael Moore vs. Mel Gibson.” It isn’t quite that simple, of course, writes TIME’s Richard Lacayo. Just ask Moore, who says that his film, too, resonates with Christ’s message. The Passion of the Christ emphasized Christ’s final hours and, for the most part, left out scenes of his ministry. “But my film dovetails with the rest of Jesus’ life,” Moore told TIME last week. “It connects to his message about questioning those in authority, of being a man of peace, of loving your neighbor.”

Power Line Named Blog of the Year: TIME also names Power Line its Blog of the Year. “Before this year, blogs were a curiosity, a cult phenomenon, a faintly embarrassing hobby on the order of ham radio and stamp collecting. But in 2004, blogs unexpectedly vaulted into the pantheon of major media, alongside TV, radio and, yes, magazines, and it was Power Line, more than any other blog, that got them there,” writes TIME’s Lev Grossman. See separate press release.

Power Line is the brainchild of two Minneapolis-based lawyers John Hinderaker and Scott Johnson and Washington, D.C.-based lawyer Paul Mirengoff. “My view,” Johnson says, “is that the mainstream media has acted as a means to obscure, as a kind of filter, a lens that makes it impossible to understand what’s going on in reality. We try to provide something that brings people closer to reality,” he tells TIME.

The Insurgent: Abu Musab al-Zarqawi: TIME’s Romesh Ratnest looks at how Abu Mousab al-Zarqawi transformed the Iraq insurgency into a holy war and became the world’s most dangerous man.

TIME’s extensive Person of the Year package also includes a six-page photo act of exclusive, behind-the-scenes photos of Bush visiting wounded soldiers at Bethesda Naval Hospital last week, a roundtable of presidential historians commenting on Bush’s presidency, and a closing essay by TIME contributor Andrew Sullivan. The Bethesda Naval Hospital photos were taken by Christopher Morris. TIME’s cover illustration is by Daniel Adel.

People Who Mattered: TIME’s ‘People Who Mattered’ package includes exclusive photos of Nancy and Ron Reagan, Jr. in the first photo published of them together since the former president’s death and behind-the-scenes photos of Senator John Kerry and Apple CEO Steve Jobs by TIME’s Diana Walker.

Media Contact: Ty Trippet, 212-522-3640

Space Shuttle Status Report: S04-042

Space Shuttle Processing Status Report: S04-042

WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- The Space Shuttle fleet is housed and processed at NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Fla. The order the Space Shuttles are listed in this report does not necessarily reflect the chronological order of future missions.

Discovery (OV-103)

Technicians continue to perform orbiter powered-system testing on Discovery for its Return to Flight mission, designated STS-114, to the International Space Station. Final closeouts and seal installations continue on the Rudder Speed Brake.

The new Orbiter Boom Sensor System (OBSS) is scheduled to arrive at Kennedy Space Center as early as next week. Once at KSC, it will be taken to the Remote Manipulator System lab in the Vehicle Assembly Building for final checkout and testing prior to moving over to the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) for installation into Discovery. The 50-foot long OBSS will attach to
the Remote Manipulator System, or Shuttle arm, and is one of the new safety measures for Return to Flight, equipping the orbiter with cameras and laser systems to inspect the Shuttle's Thermal Protection System while in space.

Atlantis (OV-104)

In OPF Bay 1, processing is continuing to go well for Atlantis' mission to the International Space Station. The orbiter remains in a power-down period to complete the final wiring for the Return to Flight modifications, including the new OBSS, wing leading edge sensors and the External Tank separation camera. The vehicle is scheduled to be powered up next week.

The body flap is scheduled to be installed on Atlantis in early January. The body flap actuators were removed and inspected prior to being reinstalled on the vehicle. The fuel cells and external airlock are scheduled to be installed following the holidays.


Endeavour (OV-105)

Space Shuttle Endeavour is in its Orbiter Major Modification period, which began in December 2003. Endeavour was rolled over to the Vehicle Assembly Building yesterday for a temporary stay, clearing OPF Bay 2 for a scheduled maintenance period. The orbiter is scheduled to be rolled back into the bay on Jan. 12.

Both the right- and left-hand wing leading edges were painted following the removal of miniscule corrosion on the wing. This prepares the surface of the wing for the reinstallation of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panels.

Due to the holidays, this will be the final Space Shuttle Processing Status Report for 2004.

Previous Space Shuttle processing status reports are available on theInternet at: nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/shuttleoperations
For information about NASA's Return to Flight efforts on the Internet,visit: nasa.gov/news/highlights/returntoflight
For information about NASA and agency programs on the Internet,
visit: nasa.gov/

Landmine Action Smart Book

Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC December 17, 2004

New "Landmine Action Smart Book" Educates Public About Global Landmine Problem

The Mine Action Information Center at James Madison University has released the second edition of “The Landmine Action Smart Book,” a primer and reference tool on the humanitarian threat posed by persistent landmines and unexploded ordnance around the world. Publication of the Smart Book, which is designed for the general public, students and the media, was funded by the U.S. Department of State's Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement.

The well-illustrated 42-page Smart Book describes the global landmine threat, the nature of landmines, and the main pillars of humanitarian mine action: humanitarian demining, mine risk education for populations in mine affected areas, and landmine survivors assistance. It also provides information on the two international landmine treaties – the Amended Mines Protocol to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons to which the United States is a State Party, and the “Ottawa Convention.” In addition, the Smart Book examines research and development to increase the efficiency, speed and safety of humanitarian demining, including such cutting edge technologies as the U.S.-developed “HSTAMiDS” mine detector that combines ground penetrating radar with a metal detector, as well as explosive-detecting bacteria, bees and giant African pouch rats that may eventually augment the deminer’s “toolbox.”

“The Landmine Action Smart Book” will soon be available on-line at maic.jmu.edu/researchtools. A limited number of printed editions are also available from the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement. To receive a free copy, send an email request to GrayVC2@state.gov.

The Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs currently manages humanitarian mine action programs in 31 countries around the world, encourages public-private partnerships to support mine action, and also oversees efforts to reduce illegal trafficking and increase international safeguarding of small arms, light weapons and shoulder-fired surface-to-air-missiles. To learn more, visit state.gov. [End]

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) News Release.

On the Web: defenselink.mil/releases/2004/ Media contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309 Public contact: dod.mil/faq/comment or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1

No. 1304-04 IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 18, 2004 DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

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

Lance Cpl. Franklin A. Sweger, 24, of San Antonio, Texas, died Dec. 16 as a result of enemy action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

News media with questions about this Marine can call the Marine Corps Base Hawaii Public Affairs Office at (808) 257-8840 or (808) 257-8839.

bush radio address 12/04/18 full audio, text transcript

For Immediate ReleaseDecember 18, 2004

President's Radio Address

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This week my administration hosted an important conference on America's economic future. We heard from business owners, workers, economists, and many other Americans who are seeing hopeful signs throughout our country. Our economy has come through a lot these past four years and now our people are benefitting from solid economic growth, steady gains in new jobs, record home ownership, and rising family incomes.

We also discussed some of the fundamental challenges facing our economy, from junk lawsuits and burdensome regulation to the complicated tax code, to the need for vital reforms in education, health care and entitlements. I will work with members of both political parties to confront these problems so we can keep our economy flexible, innovative and competitive, and so America remains the best place in the world to do business.

Excessive litigation is one of the biggest obstacles to economic growth. The tort system now costs America's economy more than $230 billion a year, and no other country faces a greater burden from junk lawsuits. Our litigious society deters job creation and consumes billions of dollars that could be better spent on investment and expansion. Frivolous lawsuits put American workers at a competitive disadvantage in the global economy and have a devastating impact on the medical community. When Congress convenes next year, the House and Senate need to pass sound reforms on our medical liability, class action, and asbestos litigation systems.

Another challenge in our economy is the rising cost of health care. More than half of all uninsured Americans are small business employees and their families. And while many business owners want to provide health care for their workers, they just can't afford the high cost. To help more Americans get care, we need to expand tax-free health savings accounts, which are already making a difference for small businesses and families. We should encourage health information technology that minimizes error and controls costs. And Congress must allow small firms to join together and buy health insurance at the same discounts big companies get.

To grow their businesses and create jobs, small business owners also need relief from excessive taxes and regulation. The tax relief we passed has been critical to our economic recovery, and Congress needs to make that tax relief permanent. We also need to reform our complicated tax code to encourage investment and growth, and reduce headache for taxpayers. And to promote innovation in hiring, we must lift the burden of needless federal regulation on hardworking entrepreneurs.

As our businesses create advanced, high-paying jobs, we must ensure that workers have the education and skills to fill those jobs. We've made a good start with the No Child Left Behind Act, which is already helping students make progress in the early grades. Now we need to bring high standards and accountability to high schools, and make sure job-training programs prepare workers for the innovative jobs of the 21st century.

To help our young people we must also fix the long-term problems in the Social Security system. Workers in their mid-20s today will find Social Security bankrupt when they retire, unless we act to save it. As we reform and strengthen the system we will deliver all the benefits owed to current and near retirees. We must not increase payroll taxes. And we must tap into the power of markets and compound interest by giving younger workers the option of saving some of their payroll taxes in a personal investment account, a nest egg they call their own, which the government can never take away.

The week's conference provided a good opportunity to discuss our economic challenges with Americans from many backgrounds, and to set the issues clearly before Congress. I'm open to good ideas from Democrats and Republicans. I will work with any who shares our goal of strengthening the economy. But I will not ignore these challenges and leave them to another day. We have a duty to the American people to act on these issues, and we will get results.

Thank you for listening. END

Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act

President Signs Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act FULL STREAMING VIDEO

Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium Washington, D.C. President's Remarks 9:59 A.M. EST

The Intelligence Reform 1

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. In a few minutes, I will sign into law the most dramatic reform of our nation's intelligence capabilities since President Harry S. Truman signed the National Security Act of 1947.

Under this new law, our vast intelligence enterprise will become more unified, coordinated and effective. It will enable us to better do our duty, which is to protect the American people.

I want to thank the members of Congress who have worked hard on this legislation. I particularly want to thank the leader of the Senate, Bill Frist, Speaker of the House Denny Hastert, and their counterparts in both bodies. I appreciate Senator Susan Collins from Maine and Senator Joe Lieberman from Connecticut for steering this legislation through the United States Senate. I appreciate Congressman Pete Hoekstra and Congresswoman Jane Harman for their leadership on this important issue, as well. Welcome. (Applause.)

I want to thank all the members of Congress who have joined us today for your good work on this legislation. I appreciate the members of my administration who helped, and that would be Director Porter Goss, Director Bob Mueller, Condi Rice and Fran Townsend. I particularly want to thank the 9/11 Commission, ably led by Tom Kean and Lee Hamilton. I want to thank the commission members who are here, as well. (Applause.)

I pay my respects, and offer our gratitude, to the family members of the victims of September the 11th. Thank you for working hard on this issue. Thank you for remembering your loved one.

The Intelligence Reform 2

Nearly six decades ago, our nation and our allies faced a new -- the new world of the Cold War and the dangers of a new enemy. To defend the free world from an armed empire bent on conquest, visionary leaders created new institutions such as the NATO alliance. The NATO alliance was begun by treaty in this very room. President Truman also implemented a sweeping reorganization of the federal government. He established the Department of Defense, the Central Intelligence Agency, and the National Security Council.

America, in this new century, again faces new threats. Instead of massed armies, we face stateless networks; we face killers who hide in our own cities. We must confront deadly technologies. To inflict great harm on our country, America's enemies need to be only right once. Our intelligence and law enforcement professionals in our government must be right every single time. Our government is adapting to confront and defeat these threats. We're staying on the offensive against the enemy. We'll take the fight to the terrorists abroad so we do not have to face them here at home.

And here at home, we're strengthening our homeland defenses. We created the Department of Homeland Security. We have made the prevention of terror attacks the highest priority of the Department of Justice and the FBI. We'll continue to work with Congress to make sure they've got the resources necessary to do their jobs. We established the National Counterterrorism Center where all the available intelligence on terrorist threats is brought together in one place and where joint action against the terrorists is planned.

We have strengthened the security of our nation's borders and ports of entry and transportation systems. The bill I sign today continues the essential reorganization of our government. Those charged with protecting America must have the best possible intelligence information, and that information must be closely integrated to form the clearest possible picture of the threats to our country.

A key lesson of September the 11th, 2001 is that America's intelligence agencies must work together as a single, unified enterprise. The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 creates the position of Director of National Intelligence, or DNI, to be appointed by the President with the consent of the Senate.

The Director will lead a unified intelligence community and will serve as the principle advisor to the President on intelligence matters. The DNI will have the authority to order the collection of new intelligence to ensure the sharing of information among agencies and to establish common standards for the intelligence community's personnel. It will be the DNI's responsibility to determine the annual budgets for all national intelligence agencies and offices and to direct how these funds are spent. These authorities vested in a single official who reports directly to me will make all our intelligence efforts better coordinated, more efficient, and more effective.

The Intelligence Reform 3

The Director of the CIA will report to the DNI. The CIA will retain its core of responsibilities for collecting human intelligence, analyzing intelligence from all sources, and supporting American interests abroad at the direction of the President.

The new law will preserve the existing chain of command and leave all our intelligence agencies, organizations, and offices in their current departments. Our military commanders will continue to have quick access to the intelligence they need to achieve victory on the battlefield. And the law supports our efforts to ensure greater information sharing among federal departments and agencies, and also with appropriate state and local authorities.

The many reforms in this act have a single goal: to ensure that the people in government responsible for defending America have the best possible information to make the best possible decisions. The men and women of our intelligence community give America their very best every day, and in return we owe them our full support. As we continue to reform and strengthen the intelligence community, we will do all that is necessary to defend its people and the nation we serve.

I'm now pleased and honored to sign into law the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. (Applause.)

(The bill is signed.) (Applause.)