General: “We must extend our peace by advancing our technology. …We have begun a comprehensive review of the US military, the state of our strategy, the structure of our forces, the priorities of our budget. I have given a broad mandate to challenge the status quo as we design a new architecture for the defense of America. … Our goal is to move beyond marginal improvements to harness new technologies that will support a new strategy.” (Speech at Joint Forces Command headquarters, Norfolk, Va., 2/14/01).
On Homeland security: “We have tripled funding for homeland security and trained half-a-million first responders, because we are determined to protect our homeland. We are transforming our military and reforming and strengthening our intelligence services. We are staying on the offensive, striking terrorists abroad so we do not have to face them here at home. And we are working to advance liberty in the broader Middle East, because freedom will bring a future of hope, and the peace we all want. And we will
prevail.” (2004 Republican Convention, 9/2/04).
Signed in to law USA Patriot Act of 2001 (H.R. 3162), uniting and strengthening America by providing appropriate tools required to intercept and obstruct terrorism. Became Public Law No. 107-56 (10/26/01).
Signed into law The Military Family Tax Relief Act of 2003 (H.R. 3365), to provide additional tax relief for members of the Armed Forces and their families, and for other purposes. Became Public Law No: 108-121, (11/11/03)
Executive Order: Ordering the Ready Reserve of the Armed Forces to Active Duty And Delegating Certain Authorities to the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Transportation (9/14/01).
Executive Order: Establishing the Office of Homeland Security and the Homeland Security Council (10/8/01).
Executive Order: Establishing the President’s Homeland Security Advisory Council and Senior Advisory Committees for Homeland Security (3/21/02).