George Bush actually said...

"St. Patrick's Day pays tribute to an incredible hero and to the rich cultural heritage of the Emerald Isle."

"I intend to nominate three individuals to serve in my administration."

"We accept this crystal of shamrocks, not just as a symbol of Ireland but as a symbol of a strong friendship between our nations."

"I assured him, and will continue to do so, that the United States stands ready to help in any way that the governments involved need."