Deaths of U.S. Department of State Contractors in Iraq

Deaths of U.S. Department of State Contractors in Iraq

The Department of State is deeply saddened by the deaths of two employees of Blackwater Security Consulting during a roadside attack in Baghdad on March 12. Another Blackwater employee was injured.

These men were assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Iraq to protect American diplomats. They played a vital role in our mission to bring democracy, and opportunity to the people of Iraq. We will always remember their courage, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice for their country in the name of freedom.

We mourn the loss of these brave men and extend our deepest sympathies to their families.

2005/315 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC Released on March 13, 2005

Treasury Department Launches Social Security Web Site

Treasury Department Launches Social Security Web Site StrengtheningSocialSecurity.gov

SAN ANTONIO - Treasury Secretary John Snow today announced the Department of the Treasury is launching a new web site, StrengtheningSocialSecurity.gov. The site will provide up-to-date information on the problems facing Social Security and the Administration's efforts to permanently fix the program through bipartisan reform.

"As I have traveled across the country these past few months, I've met people at every stop who are asking me questions about Social Security. `What can we do to improve the system for future generations? Will Social Security be there for me when I retire? Why is the program in trouble?'" said Snow. "We are launching this web site to provide Americans with the latest information so these questions can be answered. They will see where Social Security stands today and what can be done to strengthen it for the future."

The web site, StrengtheningSocialSecurity.gov, provides access to a broad array of information including speeches by the President and his Cabinet, press releases, and fact sheets. The site tracks Administration officials' Social Security events and will serve as the information center for the ongoing 60 Stops in 60 Days tour. March 11, 2005 JS-2306 FROM THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS