Remarks in Wheeling, West Virginia

Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents, Sept 6, 2004

Today when I landed, I met Nancy Weeks. Nancy works with the 4-H National Youth Development Program. She takes time out of her life to teach values to kids. I'm sure there's Scout leaders here, Boy Scout and Girl Scout leaders here. I know there's Little League scouts here--I mean, Little League coaches here. I know there's people working with kids. I know there's people here feeding the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, loving those whose souls need love. See, the strength of this country is the hearts and souls of the American citizens. That's our strength. I'm running again to rally the armies of compassion, which are changing this country one heart and one soul at a time.

For all Americans, these years in our history will stand apart. There are quiet times in the life of a nation when little is expected of its leaders. This is not one of those times. This is a time that requires firm resolve, clear vision, and an unshakeable belief in the values that makes us a great nation.

You know--and you'll never forget, either, the week when one era ended and another began. I stood in the ruins of those Twin Towers on September the 14, 2001. It's a day that I will never forget. There were workers in hardhats yelling at me, "Whatever it takes." I was coming down through there and shaking hands, a fellow looked me right in the eye, and he said, "You don't let me down." See, he took the day personally. Everybody there--you took it personally. I took it personally. I have a duty that goes on. I wake up every day trying to figure out how best to defend this country. I will never relent in defending America, whatever it takes.

We've come through a lot together. We've done a lot of hard work. But there's more work to be done. That's why I've come to Wheeling, West Virginia. During the next 4 years, we'll spread ownership and opportunity to every corner of this country. During the next 4 years, we will pass the enduring values of this Nation on to another generation. During the next 4 years, we'll continue to spread freedom and peace, and we will prevail. You know, with your support and your prayers, I will he a leader that America can count on during a time of change.

Four years ago, I came to your State a lot. I'll do so again now. I said if you gave me a chance, if you voted for me and if I was fortunate enough to hold this office, I would uphold the honor and the dignity of the office to which I had been elected. With your help and your hard work, I will do so for the next 4 years.

God bless. Thank you for coming. Thank you all.

NOTE: The President spoke at 2:20 p.m. at the WesBanco Arena. In his remarks, he referred to Richard Casini, steelworker, ISG Weirton Inc.; Katherine Fortunato, West Virginia State chair, W Stands for Women Steering Committee; and Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi of Japan. He also referred to the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (9/11 Commission).