George W. Bush: “The United States honors Ruth Johnson Colvin for her extraordinary efforts to provide hope and opportunity to people…”

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.

If any voters came hoping for a kind word and a hug, they’d have to settle for the kind word.

We are heartbroken by the loss of life and the agony so many are feeling.

Today, we remember your loss, we share your sorrow and we honor the men and women that you have loved so long and so well.