Bush thanks military for 'standing up'

NEW YORK, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush thanked military personnel for "standing up when your country needed you most" in remarks commemorating Veterans Day Tuesday.

Bush spoke at a ceremony to commemorate Veterans Day and the re-dedication of the USS Intrepid Air, Sea and Space Museum in New York City.

On Veterans Day, the nation celebrates and thanks all who have served or are serving in the armed forces, Bush said.

"These noble Americans are our sons and daughters; they are our fathers and mothers; they are our family; and they are our friends," Bush said. "They leave home to do the work of patriots, and they lead lives of quiet dignity when they return."

Bush said the United States sends a "clear message" to veterans and those still serving: "Thank you for your courage. Thank you for your sacrifice. And thank you for standing up when your nation needed you most."

The USS Intrepid was launched April 26, 1943, and commissioned Aug. 16, 1943. The Intrepid, with a distinguished record in World War II, saw active duty in the Pacific Theater. The ship was decommissioned March 15, 1974.

Once he finishes his presidency in January, Bush said he'd most miss "being commander in chief of such a fabulous group of men and women."