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Bush extends sympathy at jamboree

FORT A.P. HILL, Va., July 31 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush offered condolences and prayers to the families of the Scout leaders who lost their lives at the Boy Scout jamboree in Virginia.

Last week, four Boy Scout leaders were electrocuted when an overhead electrical cable apparently came down.

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"The men you lost were models of good citizenship, leaders who stepped forward to serve a good and selfless cause," Bush told the more than 30,000 Boy Scouts Sunday. "As Scout leaders they devoted themselves to helping young men develop the character and skills they need to realize their dreams. These men will always be remembered for their leadership and kindness."

Some 300 Boy Scouts collapsed as they waited for Bush to speak at a memorial for the Scout leaders Wednesday and another attempt Thursday had to be postponed.

Bush noted several former Boy Scouts serve in government today including: White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card, Vice President Dick Cheney and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. Bush said he was a Cub Scout and his mother was den mother.

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"It's about the time her hair turned white," he quipped.

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