Bush ushers in New Year with visit to injured troops

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2005

SAN ANTONIO, United States (AFP) — President George W. Bush marked the start of 2006 by visiting injured US troops in his homestate of Texas, as he ushers in the New Year with a less ambitious political agenda following a bruising year.

After spending New Year's Eve at his Texas ranch with First Lady Laura Bush, the president arrived Sunday at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where he met with 51 wounded troops and awarded nine Purple Heart medals.

"I'm just overwhelmed by the great strength of character of not only those who have been wounded, but of their loved ones, as well," Bush told reporters after the visit.

Bush was due to return to Washington later Sunday, after his weeklong Christmas stay at his Texas ranch.

The president is...