Can a son repay the debt reflected in a lifetime of sacrifice by his parents?
Can a husband express in appropriate words and deeds his love and respect for the many years of affection and loyalty of a loving wife?
Can a friend compose a message of sufficient gratitude for a president who has been an inspiration and mentor?
Mom, Becky, Mr. President, I do not believe I can. Nor do I intent to even try in this abbreviated ceremony, other than to acknowledge from the bottom of my heart how much each of you has meant in my life.
In the years ahead, I hope that my service as attorney general will serve to honor your faith and trust in me.
Finally, I rise to embrace the employees of the Department of Justice. I assume this office knowing that the dedicated men and women here are focused on protecting the lives and the liberties of our citizens.
Tremendous strides in the war on terrorism were made under the leadership of Attorney General John Ashcroft, and I thank him for his service to our country and to the cause of freedom.
Like John, I am but one instrument in our battle for freedom and the protection of our rights. And I am confident that in the days and years ahead we in the department will work together tirelessly to address terrorism and other threats to our nation and to confront injustice with integrity and devotion to our highest ideals.
America is my home. I believe in her promise and I will do what I can to secure that promise for future generations of our children.
America is great, not because of our military might or economic strength, but because of the greatness of Americans. And I welcome the opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder, side by side with each of you to preserve our heritage, rich in liberty and justice for all.
Thank you. And may God continue to bless the United States of America.
(APPLAUSE)
END
