NEWS RELEASE

Washington, DC - Today, during a ceremony at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), famed astronaut Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin congratulated agency employees for their "adoption" of the USS Theodore Roosevelt. He also stressed the importance of not forgetting the thousands who are fighting on America's behalf, especially during the Holiday season.

"We want to encourage those who may want to fly to the moon, that they can do it, especially with the support of people like those here at OPM," said Aldrin. "I think that what OPM is doing is wonderful."

In an additional show of support, Aldrin read a letter from Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld to OPM Director Kay Coles James acknowledging OPM's efforts since the events of September 11.

Director James praised the OPM "family" and the generosity shown by employees. "OPM employees have been extremely generous in their understanding of how important it is for the crew of the USS Theodore Roosevelt to know that people truly appreciate everything they are doing for this country."

As a part of OPM's adoption of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, crew members will receive gifts and cards throughout the Holiday season, and on Sunday, December 2, toys will be presented to the children of crew members during a special celebration at the Norfolk, VA, Naval Base.

Generous contributions shipped to the USS Theodore Roosevelt in the last two weeks by agency employees have included 40 large boxes of gift catalogs, magazines, holiday cards, books, videos, and over 236 pounds of snack foods, toiletries and entertainment.

On October 26, OPM became the first federal agency to "adopt-a-ship" as part of the war effort. OPM employees will continue to send letters, cards, and other forms of support as long as the ship is deployed.