MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- The commander in chief, President George W. Bush, stepped off a glistening Air Force One under a hot southern-California sun before walking through rows of fighter aircraft and their pilots to greet and address roughly 15,000 cheering Marines, Sailors and their families in front of Hangar 4 aboard the air station, Aug. 14.

Bush, wearing a military tanker jacket, was escorted to the warm reception by Lt. Gen. James Conway, commanding officer, I Marine Expeditionary Force, to deliver a speech vowing to remain focused on the war against terror and saluting veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He expressed thanks to the service members for their honorable and courageous service to the nation.

"I'm honored to be in the presence of the men and women who wear our nation's uniform," declared Bush. "I'm proud of you, and I want to thank you for your service to our great country. Each of you serves in a crucial time in our nation's history and this nation is grateful for the sacrifice and service you make."

The crowd frequently returned Bush's remarks with cheers and roaring applause.

"The war on terror continues in Iraq," Bush said. "Make no mistake about it, Iraq is part of the war on terror. Our coalition forces are still engaged in an essential mission. We met the major combat objectives in Operation Iraqi Freedom by removing a regime that persecuted Iraqis, and supported terrorists, and was armed to threaten the peace of the world. All the world is now seeing just how badly the Iraqi people suffered under this brutal dictator. The Iraqi people, themselves, are seeing a new day thanks to the brave men and women who came to liberate them."

Among those in attendance to hear Bush were Brig. Gen. Jon A. Gallinetti, commander Marine Corps Bases Western Area, Maj. Gen. James F. Amos, commanding general, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Maj. Gen. Jan C. Huly, commanding general, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, and country singer Toby Keith, who entertained the troops before Bush's arrival.

Also on hand for the event were Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif., and Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif.

Immediately after the speech, service members and their families got the opportunity to meet the president face-to-face as he walked among the crowd, shaking hands and taking photos while exchanging smiles and words of praise.

Before continuing on for a political fund-raising event at the San Diego Convention center, Bush toured Miramar and even stopped to have lunch with Marines at the Gonzales Hall dining facility.

"I can't believe I'm going to eat with the president," said Lance Cpl. Danielle Barnhurst, heavy equipment operator, Marine Wing Support Squadron 373. "This is unbelievable."

With rows of F/A-18 Hornets and the hills of San Diego County in the background, the president sat down for an exclusive 20-minute interview with Armed Forces Radio and Television Service, in Hangar 3 to express encouragement and support for military families across the country as well as overseas.

"What your loved one is doing is the right thing for the country," said Bush. "We are called upon to defend the United States of America. I take that oath, and every soldier takes that oath. On 9-11 our world changed and we realized that this country is vulnerable and we ought to do something about it. The best way to get the enemy is to get them before he gets us."

The president's message during the afternoon visit resonated with the Marines, especially those who deployed during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"Marines, more than anyone else, recognize strong leadership," said Sgt. Jared S. Dalton, headquarters battery training NCO, 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment. "After his performance as commander in chief during the war in Iraq, no one can question his resolve as a leader."

Even while touting the many successes during the war against terrorism in Afghanistan and Iraq, where more than 70,000 men and women from bases in southern California deployed, Bush noted the heavy price of freedom that has come with that progress.

"Each of you recalls especially the ones who gave their lives for freedom of others," said Bush. "The United States will always honor their memory and today we ask the Almighty's blessings on those who grieve here on earth for their loved ones.

"I know you're proud to wear the same uniform they wore. Each of you has chosen, you have made the choice, to fill a great calling, to live by a code of honor, in service to your nation, for the safety and security of your fellow citizens. You and I have taken an oath to defend America. We're meeting that duty together. And I am proud to be the commander in chief of such a fabulous group of men and women who wear our uniform."