Bush rues 'dead or alive' comment

NEW YORK, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Speaking before a "Mission Accomplished" banner and provocative comments about the war in Iraq are among the things U.S. President George Bush says he regrets.

"I regret saying some things I shouldn't have said," Bush told CNN. "Like 'dead or alive' and 'bring 'em on.' My wife reminded me that, hey, as president of the United States, be careful what you say."

Just as he rues some of his more vitriolic comments, Bush said he's proud of many things occurring on his watch.

"I am proud to be the commander in chief of people who are so selfless and so courageous that they would volunteer to serve our country in a time of war," he said during the interview in New York. "I'm proud when I see people feed the hungry. I'm proud when I'm in Africa and see volunteers helping those citizens dying of HIV/AIDS."

Bush said his meeting with President-elect Barack Obama was relaxed. He said Obama was particularly interested how his daughters would adjust to the fishbowl life in the White House.

"Clearly, this guy is going to bring a sense of family to the White House and I hope Laura and I did the same thing," Bush said.

Bush said he'll return to Texas, perhaps to "write a book," but with few other definite plans.

He called Obama's election "good for the country" as well as historic.

"It is good for our country that people have hope in the system and feel vested in the future and President-elect Obama has a great opportunity," Bush said.