hq cia for president Leon panetta: (applause.) Thank you, thank you very, very, very. It was a very loud welcome from the group that was supposed to be a silent warrior. (Laughter.) Mr. President, it's a great honor and happy to welcome you to the CIA. We are all very proud that you have taken the time from you a very busy schedule to get out to Langley and meet men And women who do difficult but important intelligence work for our nation. Those who founded this agent about six decades ago. President Harry Truman, was inspired by General Bill Donovan, who Statues are here in the lobby, understand that they are Creating something important for the security of the nation. A large agency will operate in shadows Confidentiality to provide important and accurate intelligence for leaders of our nation. Time demands.
Time demands now. The CIA is at the forefront of the defense of this nation. When we talk, the CIA officers are spread throughout the world. In some very dangerous places, put their lives on the phone. Handle the threat of our day. From terrorism and nuclear proliferation, to narcotics Trade and espionage and any other global challenges and threats. The skills and ingenuity and dedication work to keep the nation safe. But the work did not come without risk or cost. The star wall behind us is the last proof for their sacrifice. Each star represents the officer who gives his life to this country. Some of whom are still secret because they operate in disguise. But the CIA officers did it because they loved this country. We believe in a free and open society and we really believe enforce the laws and values of this community.
That's why we defend. So in my words Immigrant father "We can continue those values to our children." Mr. President, when you ask me to take this job, you clarify You want honest, direct and direct assessment. I've tried doing it and will continue to do it. In the spirit, let me make some important points to Americans. First of all, the CIA currently will apply our mission below Guidelines that you have made for detention and interrogation. I share your beliefs and clarify that this agency will operate under your executive order.
We believe that we can fully protect this nation and us Value at the same time and we do that. Second, we are a nation in the war. You have explained that the core destination of the United States must Be "to disturb, unpack and defeat Al Qaeda and his extremist allies." That and must be our main mission. As a former member of Congress like you, I understand and Appreciate the role of the legislative branch in reviewing what happened hopefully studying lessons from the past and me has clarified that we will fully work with this effort. But as you say, this is a reflection time, not levies.
We must be careful not to spend so much time and energy in lying blame the past that disturbs our ability to Focus on the fundamental mission that we have for today and for tomorrow. That defeats our enemies and keeps our country safe. And finally as Director, I believe we have a chance for the CIA to start a new and great chapter in our history service to the nation. You have explained your loyalty and support for our mission and our employees And for that I thank it in depth. In return, I want you to know that you have our full loyalty and support in your efforts to protect America. Mr. President, once again thank you very much for joining us today.
We are very honored to have you. Ladies and attendees about the CIA, I am proud to introduce the President of the United States. (Applause.) President: Thank you, everything. Thank you. Thank you. (Applause.) Well, thank you for the amazing welcome. And thank you, for those of you who are ready from the CIA souvenir shop
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