George W. Bush: “Tonight, I propose a permanent Cabinet-level Department of Homeland Security to unite essential agencies that must work…”

America has gone more than seven years without another terrorist attack on our soil. This is a tribute to those who toil night and day to keep us safe.

That is the America I know.

It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as your President.

What America does for itself has made it strong--but what America does for others has made it great.