George W. Bush: “We are grateful for our freedom, grateful for our families and friends, and grateful for the many gifts of America.”

For eight years, it has been my honor to serve as your President. The first decade of this new century has been a period of consequence—a time set apart.

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.

I applaud your Governor's response to that tragedy.

Is it in our interest that 25 million people who would have died now live? I think it is. On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you for your hard work and God bless you.