Embassy of the United States

President Bush told reporters and the American people on nationwide
television September 11 that "the resolve of our great nation is being tested."

"But make no mistake: We will show the world that we will pass
this test."

The President said the United States will "hunt down and punish
those responsible for these cowardly acts."

Following is the White House text:

(begin text)

The White House
Office of the Press Secretary
September 11, 2001

Remarks by the President Upon Arrival at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana

THE PRESIDENT: I want to reassure the American people that the full resources of
the federal government are working to assist local authorities to save lives and
to help the victims of these attacks.

Make no mistake: The United States will hunt down and punish
those responsible for these cowardly acts.

I've been in regular contact with the Vice President, the
Secretary of Defense, the national security team and my Cabinet. We have
taken all appropriate security precautions to protect the American people.
Our military at home and around the world is on high alert status,
and we have taken the necessary security precautions to continue the
functions of your government.

We have been in touch with the leaders of Congress and with
world leaders to assure them that we will do whatever is necessary to protect
America and Americans.

I ask the American people to join me in saying a thanks for all
the folks who have been fighting hard to rescue our fellow citizens and to
join me in saying a prayer for the victims and their families.

The resolve of our great nation is being tested. But make no
mistake: We will show the world that we will pass this test. God bless.

(end White House text)