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Richard Piatt ReportingThe President singled out a family whose son paid the ultimate price in the war. Marine Corporal Adam Galvez of Salt Lake City was killed by a roadside 11 days ago. Today, Bush thanked the Galvez family directly.
He used the family's own strong feelings on the war to inspire thousands of veterans.
President Bush: "Adam's belief in this country did not waver, even to the point of ultimate sacrifice."
Tony and Amy Galvez listen to a Presidential tribute to their son, barely 24 hours after his funeral. President George W. Bush said Marine Corporal Adam Galvez is an example of the price America is paying for freedom. It's a fight the President says must continue.
President Bush: "Our nation will always remember the selflessness and sacrifice of Americans like Adam Galvez. We will honor their lives by completing the good and noble work they have started."
Adam Galvez is among the 2600-plus service men and women who have died in the war. It's painful for his parents to be part of that statistic. This honor from the President is one of the unexpected by products of his service.
Tony Galvez, Father: "I was extremely honored the president took a few moments to mention my son."
Amy Galvez, Mother: "So many troops are working hard for us every day. So many are giving the ultimate sacrifice, and we appreciate them too. And it truly was an honor for the president to mention our son."
And, according to President Bush, more sacrifice will be necessary. He says the terror threat is not gone, more threats are looming.
President Bush: "For all that is new about this war, one thing has not changed; victory still depends on the courage, the patience and the resolve of the American people."
The President says there are no guarantees in wartime, but he does admit: America is in this fight for the long haul.