Gotta love Bush's jokes with servicemen at an army hospital

President Visits Troops at Brooke Army Medical Center
Brooke Army Medical Center
San Antonio, Texas

THE PRESIDENT: Happy New Year to you all. Thanks. I can't think of a better way to start 2006 then here at this fantastic hospital -- a hospital that's full of healers and compassionate people who care deeply about our men and women in uniform. It's also full of courageous young soldiers, Marines, airmen -- men and women who are serving our country and making great sacrifice. I'm just overwhelmed by the great strength of character of not only those who have been wounded, but of their loved ones, as well. And so, thank you all for bringing great credit to our country.

President George W. Bush speaks with the press on Sunday, January 1, 2006, at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. During his visit to the Medical Center, the President presented nine soldiers with a Purple Heart Award and visited with wounded soldiers and their families. White House photo by Shealah Craighead As you can possibly see, I have an injury myself -- not here at the hospital, but in combat with a Cedar. I eventually won. The Cedar gave me a little scratch. As a matter of fact, the Colonel asked if I needed first aid when she first saw me. I was able to avoid any major surgical operations here, but thanks for your compassion, Colonel.

I've been thinking long and hard about 2006. My hopes, of course, are for peace around the world. I'll continue to work as hard as I can to lay that foundation for peace. And also my hope is that this country remains as prosperous as it was in 2005. We had a very strong economy, and we'll work to keep the economy as strong as it possibly can, so anybody that wants to find a job can find one.

With that, I'll be glad to answer a couple of questions. Toby. Or, Deb. You are Deb, right?...