THE
PRESIDENT: (In progress) -- out of this despair is going to come a
vibrant coast. It's -- again, I understand if you're saying to yourself,
well, it's hard for me to realize what George W is saying because I've
seen the rubble and I know what has happened to my neighbors. But I'd
like to come back down here in about two years and walk your streets and
see how vital this part of the world is going to be.
I can't wait to join you in the joy of welcoming neighbors back
into neighborhoods, and small businesses up and running, and cutting
those ribbons that somebody is creating new jobs. That's what I think is
going to happen.
I just want you to know that when I'm thinking about how we can help
this part of the world, Mississippi is on my mind. Mississippi is a part
of the future of this country, and part of that future is to help you
get back up on your feet. And I'm confident that your United States
senator Trent Lott, if I don't say it loud enough, he will. (Laughter.)
He'll remind us. But I appreciate you taking time out of your day. And
by the way, I'm traveling with good company. My wife, Laura, is with me,
too. I want to -- (Applause.)
So let me conclude by asking for God's blessings on you all, and your
families and friends, and let you know we're here for the long term. I
understand. I understand the damage. I understand the devastation. I
understand the destruction. I understand how long it's going to take.
And we're with you. That's what I want you to know. God bless.
(Applause.)