I wish we could have had everybody -- the majesty of this place.

There is hereby established a Transportation Distinguished Service Medal.

I am very grateful to Dana and to Paula for being here.

Thank you so much, and God bless you.

The fact that we can laugh at each other is a very fundamental thing.

I think he's given us a wonderful kickoff to what I hope will be a joyous, totally friendly, very happy, somewhat nostalgic but merry Christmas for everybody.

The people of Somalia, especially the children of Somalia, need our help.

We will not, however, be acting alone.

I understand the United States alone cannot right the world's wrongs.

I want to talk to you today about the tragedy in Somalia and about a mission that can ease suffering and save lives.

Our mission has a limited objective: To open the supply routes, to get the food moving, and to prepare the way for a U.N. peacekeeping force to keep it moving.

We respect your sovereignty and independence.