Bush tells troops Iraq no longer 'hopeless'
Beginning a weeklong Asian tour with a refueling stop in Alaska, the president offered thanks to units from this base near Fairbanks and nearby Fort Wainwright that have done tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
He also noted an Army Stryker brigade from Wainwright is about to deploy to Iraq, saying it will be "heading into a different situation."
"About a year ago people thought Iraq was lost and hopeless. People were saying let's get out of there, it doesn't matter to our national security. Iraq's changed — a lot," Bush said. "The terrorists are on the run."
And he again asserted that fighting them was not a law enforcement problem. "If it's a law enforcement matter, that means you react after the crime. I think it's important ... to stop the crime from happening in the first place."
"The United States today and tomorrow must stay on the offense and keep the pressure on this enemy and bring 'em to justice so they don't hurt the American citizen again," Bush said.
Among those in attendance was Sen. Ted Stevens, whose indictment on corruption charges has roiled Republican politics and prompted some of his colleagues to keep their distance.
Bush acknowledged Stevens briefly and warmly, saying the military has no stronger friend. Josh Bolten, the president's chief of staff, was seen chatting with Stevens after the president spoke.
As a member of Alaska's delegation, Stevens was invited as a matter of protocol.
White House press secretary Dana Perino said Stevens' participation was "absolutely appropriate."
Perino said she did not think Bush had spoken to Stevens since his indictment last week. The 40-year Senate veteran is accused of concealing gifts from a powerful oil services company. He has pleaded not guilty to the seven-count indictment against him.
Stevens faces a tough re-election fight this year.He says he expects to be vindicated before the November general election, thanks to a speedy trial he requested.
Eielson is home to the 354th Fighter Wing, which supports operations in the Pacific.
The president departed after his comments for Seoul, South Korea.
His agenda in Asia this week is front-loaded with trouble on the continent: nuclear worries, political repression, recovery from natural disaster. Then comes plenty of sports.
Recent comments
Anything you say Mr. Bush. How dare I question you!
Carl | Aug. 7, 2008 at 5:49 p.m.
Obfuscate and prevaricate. As the old saying goes, "baffle 'em with…
Spin, spin, spin | Aug. 7, 2008 at 5:36 p.m.
