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Bush Signs Resolution Authorizing U.S. Force Against Saddam
Wednesday, October 16, 2002
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

“The Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks against America put the country on notice that it's not immune from the dangers and hatreds of the world. The attacks have caused the nation to resolve to oppose every threat, from any source, that could bring sudden tragedy to the American people. This nation will not live at the mercy of any foreign power or plot. Confronting grave dangers is the surest path to peace and security. This is the expectation of the American people and the decision of their elected representatives. I thank the Congress for a thorough debate and an overwhelming statement of support. The broad resolve of our government is now clear to all, clear to everyone to see. We will defend our nation and lead others in defending the peace."

WASHINGTON -- AFIS
With a few pen strokes this morning, the chief executive set the nation on course for possibly another major military confrontation with Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.

Sporting a vivid crimson tie, President Bush signed Resolution 114, passed last week in bipartisan votes in both houses of Congress. The resolution authorizes the use of U.S. military power to make Iraq comply with U.N. resolutions it signed in 1991 to end the Persian Gulf War.

The U.S. resolution "symbolizes the united purpose of our nation, expresses the considered judgment of the Congress, and marks an important event in the life of America," Bush said at the White House ceremony.

Bush noted Iraq has steadfastly refused to jettison its chemical, biological and nuclear weapons of mass destruction programs. He called the Iraqi regime "a serious and growing threat to peace."

Under Saddam, Iraq has had "a history of mass murder, of striking other nations without warning, of intense hatred for America and of contempt for the demands of the civilized world," the president said. Saddam's regime, he said, has biological and chemical weapons and ballistic missiles, it promotes international terror, and it seeks nuclear weapons.

While Congress has now authorized the use of force to subdue Saddam, Bush emphasized he has not yet ordered the use of force.
(More: DoD News Source)
2002 © The United States Department of Defense.

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