September 21, 2007

The following letter is from President George W. Bush to CIA Director Michael V. Hayden, marking the Agency’s 60^th Anniversary:

THE WHITE HOUSE
September 18, 2007

Dear General Hayden:

Congratulations on the occasion of the 60^th anniversary of the Central Intelligence Agency. There is no higher public service mission than protecting the American people. The men and women of the CIA and its predecessor, the Office of Strategic Services, have made unique and invaluable contributions to our Nation both in times of war and peace.

There is much to reflect on and take pride in while marking this important milestone. Over six decades, CIA has been the proud home to thousands of dedicated intelligence professionals who labored and sacrificed – often anonymously – to safeguard our Nation. The CIA can claim landmark accomplishments in every intelligence discipline ranging from the development of world-class technology to the cultivation of vital human relationships.

With the restructuring of our intelligence community under the leadership of the Director of National Intelligence, CIA is once again challenged to expand its capabilities to collect intelligence from human sources, analyze complex foreign threats, and exercise influence in support of our national security policies. The CIA will meet this challenge because of the patriotism, integrity, and strength of character I have witnessed in its leaders and workforce.

Laura and I send our best wishes to the extended CIA family. May God bless you, and may God bless America.

Sincerely,

/sig/
George W. Bush