President George W. Bush acknowledges his audience as he enters the staging area, Nov. 25, 2008, at Fort Campbell, Ky.

The president told the troops, “We are blessed to have defenders of such character and courage. I’m grateful to the families who serve by your side.And I will always be thankful for the honor of having served as the commander-in-chief.”

White House photo by Eric Draper

See Photo Essay here.