Military

DATE=11/12/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH / NATO (L-O)

NUMBER=2-309751

BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush has awarded America's highest civilian honor to outgoing NATO Secretary General George Robertson. V-O-A's Paula Wolfson reports the Medal of Freedom was presented at a ceremony at the White House.

TEXT: President Bush says the medal for George Robertson is a fitting tribute to the man who led NATO during the most challenging years of its history.

////BUSH ACT///

Our alliance continues to face and to meet threats to peace and prosperity and freedom. Lord Robertson's leadership has been crucial to meeting these challenges.

///END ACT///

Mr. Bush says under George Robertson's guidance, NATO has been transformed.

///BUSH ACT///

Lord Robertson is a patient leader, he's a determined leader, and over the past four years his skills and talents have made many achievements possible.

//END ACT///

The president says the secretary general took on critics who said the alliance was a relic of the Cold War and was not needed after the fall of the Soviet Union. He says today NATO is expanding and taking on new challenges.

///BUSH ACT///

Some wondered whether NATO could adapt to the new threats of the 21st century. Today, NATO forces are fighting terror in Afghanistan and supporting a multi-national division in Iraq.

///END ACT///

This is not the first time the Medal of Freedom has been awarded to a foreign dignitary. Past recipients include former South African President Nelson Mandela and former Czech President Vaclav Havel. But Mr. Robertson noted his award marks an important first.

///ROBERTSON ACT///

I believe that I am the first son of Scotland to receive this, America's highest civilian award. I am very proud.

///END ACT///

The awards ceremony took place during Mr. Robertson's last trip to Washington, D-C, as NATO chief. He will step down in December. (signed)

NEB/PW/RH/FC