Bill Clinton: “Good morning. Mr. Vice President, Secretary Cohen, National Security Adviser Berger, General Shalikashvili, members of…”

“Good morning. Mr. Vice President, Secretary Cohen, National Security Adviser Berger, General Shalikashvili, members of the Joint Chiefs, General and Mrs. Shelton. Let me begin by saying that it has been my great honor for these last 4 years to work with General John Shalikashvili as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. When he departs at the end of September for his return to civilian life, he will have spent nearly four decades standing up for our interests and our ideals. At a later time I will have more to say about Shali's extraordinary service to our Nation, but today I have to thank him on behalf of the American people and the President. He has done a magnificent job. We thank you, sir. Gen. John M. Shalikashvili. Thank you, Mr. President.”