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Swearing-in of Secretary of Transportation Samuel K. Skinner, 2/6/89
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MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
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Speech File Draft Files
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13475-002
Folder Title:
Swearing-in of Secretary of Transportation Samuel K. Skinner, 2/6/89
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25
6
1
2
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
February 6, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AND SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION SAMUEL K. SKINNER
AT SWEARING-IN CEREMONY
Federal Aviation Administration
Washington, D.C.
2:42 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Well, Barbara and I are delighted to be
here. And, Governor Thompson, delighted to see you, sir. But I'm
here today to welcome into our Cabinet a man who I believe is
destined to go down in history as one of the truly outstanding
Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner. (Applause.) He does
indeed have big shoes to fill. And I see one of his predecessors
sitting over here, Jim Burnley, who did an outstanding job.
And Sam, though, has made -- he comes here having made a
name for himself as a miracle worker of sorts in transportation.
Several years ago, Thompson put him in charge of the Regional
Transportaiton Authority of Northeastern Illinois. And at that time
the RTA, as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. And some said that Sam was inheriting
an impossible job. But he rolled up his sleeves and set to work and,
in short order, he put the RTA on a sound financial footing for the
first time in years.
His expertise in transportation doesn't stop there. He's
an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of Chicago's
O'Hare Airport, one of the busiest in the nation -- (laughter) --
more times than he can count. And here he is -- (laughter. But when
it comes to air travel, he'll bring a pilot's perspective to the
highest levels of our government, and that means a perspective that
puts safety first, above all other considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't quite
finished his qualifications for the job. Besides overseeing the
federal government's role in maintaining and improving our nation's
transportation system -- the networks -- the Secretary of
Transportation has another critical duty. He commands the Coast
Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines of our war on
drugs. And I can't think of anyone in America who has Sam Skinner's
background in transportation and has been a distinguished U.S.
Attorney, combination. prosecuting a number of major cases. Outstanding
And, yes, he is the ideal man for a job that will, in the
years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that I don't
- 2 -
certainly justifiable pride. And I know that you join with me in
saying that we won't rest until every possible step has been taken to
make air travel in America as safe as it possibly can be.
By the way, in one area critical to safe skies, Sam is
hitting the ground running. Next week he will head a delegation to
to ICAO -- Montreal -- the special session of the Council of the
International Civil Aviation Organization. He has my mandate to do
all he can at that meeting to hasten the day when the international
community puts an end to terrorism in the sky.
Aviation is not, of course, the only area in which
Secretary Skinner and you will work together for a better America. I
look forward to his leadership in the others areas -- highways and
bridges and urban mass transit, intercity rail, and maritime
transportation. And I think once you get to know him you'll see why
I say that I can't think of anyone I'd rather have in charge than Sam
Skinner.
And having said so much about him, let me now say a few
words to our new Secretary about how I feel about you all. It would
be hard, Sam, to find a more dedicated group of people in the entire
government than the men and women in the Department of
Transportation. And thanks in part to their effort, America's
transportation is the best system in the world. And they represent a
long and proud tradition of reaching back to the very founding of our
Republic -- for roads, shipping, and protecting our coasts from
smugglers have been concerns of our government from the very
beginning. Somebody said of Sam that you're a visionary -- said of
Sam that he's a visionary who thinks big. Well, I expect that you'll
find that your new colleagues are visionaries who think big, as well.
And I know you're as proud to serve with them as I am.
And so, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team. And so now, let's get
on with the with the swearing in. Congratulations. (Applause.)
(Secretary Skinner is sworn in.) (Applause.)
GOVERNOR THOMPSON: Following the brilliant career in
federal law enforcement of which the President so eloquently spoke,
Sam Skinner has served the people of Illinois for the past 12 years
with rare fidelity, integrity and honor. He made things move and he
got things done. And it is with the high hopes borne of that
experience that we in Illinois now proudly give him to the nation.
Ladies and gentlemen, the Secretary of Transportation. (Applause.)
SECRETARY SKINNER: Thank you, Mr. President, for your
kind words and for making me part of your team. I want to personally
acknowledge all my friends here, especially Barbara Bush, my good
friend for many years; my family, my mother and my brother; the
Governor; my good friend, Judge Flaum; and all of you. I wouldn't be
here if it weren't for your efforts and I know it.
Mr. President, the Department of Transportation's team
is, in fact, made up of many members. Each one plays an important
role. I have asked some of these outstanding members of that team to
join us, from each of our units, and I would like to introduce them
- 3 -
Pathfinder, a cooperative effort by the Federal Highway
Administration, the California Department of Transportation, and
General Motors that applies advanced technology to solve metropolitan
area congestion problems.
Romell Cooks of the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration has energized a network of health professionals to act
as allies with government in the safety belt usage and antidrunk
driving campaigns.
Barbara Schroeder, one of the two female wage-grade
employees at the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation. In a
nontraditional job as a labor line handler, and as a single parent
with three daughters, she gives freely of her time to numerous
volunteer efforts.
Donald Simonds of the FAA is a full performance level air
traffic controller, and has been actively involved in the recruitment
of minority candidates for that critical job.
Anthony A. Schiavone, Superintendent of the James River
Reserve Fleet at the Maritime Administration, maintains custody of
apprxomately 125 oceangoing merchant-type vessels that are on ready
reserve for national defense purposes.
Susan Hedgepeth, Chief of the Exemption Branch in the
Office of Hazardous Materials Transportation, develops special
requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials.
Sondra F. Talbert of the Federal Railroad Administration,
moved into the Department's Upward Mobility Training Program in 1975,
and is the first female inspector at the Interstate Commerce
Commission in the Federal Railroad Administration.
United States Coast Guard Petty Officer Kelly M. Mogk,
was recently awarded the Coast Guard Air Medal for heroic achievement
in aerial flight while serving as a helicopter rescue swimmer on
January 2, 1989.
Let's give these outstanding employees a round of
applause.
(Applause.)
Mr. President, these individuals' achievements reflect
the spirit of this Department. They are our unsung heroes -- the
dedicated public servants who serve the American traveler, the pilot,
the truck driver, the boater and the commuter.
The Department's team faces many challenges. We must be
in the forefront in the fight against terrorism. We must do
everything we can to stop the flow of drugs into this country. We
must keep our aviation system both safe and competitive. And we must
maintain our significant and important presence in the maritime
industry. We must also continue to build and maintain our
infrastructure -- and I want to acknowledge, as I look on the next
step, are Congressman Martin, are Congressman Mineta, Congressman
Coughlin -- we must work with Congress, and I will work with
Congress, to develop a visionary and comprehensive transportation
policy for the 21st century -- a policy that recognizes the
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
02/02/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
SUBJECT:
(02/02 7:00 p.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
P
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
WINSTON
BREEDEN
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Judge)
February 2, 1989
7:00 p.m.
1939 FEB -2 PM 7: 51
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count. When it comes to air travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts' safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know one other critical duty He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
Let me mention another area in which Sam will face
challenges -- aviation. The U.S. is the safest place in the
world to fly, and it's getting safer. That safety record is your
record. This Department carries a great deal of the
responsibility for the safety of the skies -- and carries it with
ability and pride. And I know that you join with me in saying
that we won't rest until air travel in America is as safe as it
can be.
By the way, in one area critical to safe skies, Sam is
hitting the ground running -- forgive the pun. Next week he will
head a delegation to Montreal to attend a special session of the
Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization. Sam
has my mandate to do all he can at that meeting to hasten the day
when the international community puts an end to terrorism in the
skies.
Aviation is not, of course, the only area in which Sam and
you will work together for a better America. Highways, bridges,
urban mass transit, intercity rail, and maritime transportation
will all demand attention. I think once you get to know him
you'll see why I say that I can't think of anyone I'd rather have
in charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me now say a few
words to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more
dedicated group of people in the entire government than the men
and women of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to
their efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads; shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
[Now we will witness the swearing-in.]
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
2/2/89
DATE:
2/2/89 C.O.B.
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY SKINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE 3:00
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER 9:00 2/3
DARMAN
STUDDERT 5:00
BATES
UNTERMEYER
2/2
BREEDEN
12:15
WINS TON
ROGERS
CARD
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by c.o.b. TODAY, February 2, 1989, with an info copy to my
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
12:15 pm 2/2/89
meclure- nocomments
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Judge)
February 1, 1989
6:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count. When it comes to air travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
In aviation, Sam will face more challenges. Airline
deregulation has proven a clear success. Air travel is no longer
restricted to a well-healed elite. It is within reach of
virtually all Americans. Average airfares today are 39 percent
lower than they were just before deregulation. 39 percent lower
-- what an achievement. And even as prices have dropped safety
has improved. Last year was the safest year ever for air
travelers in the United States.
That record of safety is your record, as well. For this
Department carries a great deal of the responsibility for the
safety of the skies -- and carries it with ability and pride.
You deserve more credit than can ever be given to you for the job
you're doing to make sure that America's air traffic network
remains a model of safety. And I know that you join with me in
saying that we won't rest until air travel is as safe as it can
be.
With rising volumes and aging equipment, we're going to have
to do a lot of work if we're going to keep air travel safe and to
make it even safer. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have in
charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me say a few words
to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more dedicated
group of people in the entire government than the men and women
of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to their
efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I AM HERE TODAY TO WELCOME INTO THE CABINET A MAN WHO
I BELIEVE IS DESTINED TO GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS ONE OF THE
TRULY OUTSTANDING SECRETARIES OF TRANSPORTATION --- SAM
SKINNER.
SAM HAS ALREADY MADE A NAME FOR HIMSELF AS A MIRACLE
WORKER IN TRANSPORTATION. SEVERAL YEARS AGO, MY GOOD
FRIEND GOVERNOR JIM THOMPSON OF ILLINOIS PUT HIM IN CHARGE
OF THE REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY OF NORTHEAST
ILLINOIS.
2
AT THE TIME THE R.T.A., AS IT IS KNOWN, WAS PLAGUED WITH
FINANCIAL TROUBLES AND DECLINING LEVELS OF SERVICE. SOME
SAID THAT SAM'S JOB WAS IMPOSSIBLE. BUT SAM ROLLED UP HIS
SLEEVES AND SET TO WORK. AND IN SHORT ORDER HE PUT THE
R.T.A. ON A SOUND FINANCIAL FOOTING FOR THE FIRST TIME IN
YEARS.
BUT SAM'S EXPERTISE IN TRANSPORTATION DOES NOT STOP
THERE. HE'S AN INSTRUMENT RATED PILOT WHO HAS FLOWN IN
AND OUT OF CHICAGO'S O'HARE AIRPORT, ONE OF THE BUSIEST IN
THE NATION, MORE TIMES THAN HE CAN COUNT.
3
WHEN IT COMES TO AIR TRAVEL, HE WILL BRING A PILOT'S
PERSPECTIVE TO THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF OUR GOVERNMENT, AND
THAT MEANS A PERSPECTIVE THAT PUTS SAFETY FIRST, ABOVE ALL
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS.
You'd THINK ALL THIS WOULD BE ENOUGH, BUT I HAVEN'T
FINISHED SAM'S QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS JOB. BESIDES
OVERSEEING THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT'S ROLE IN MAINTAINING
AND IMPROVING OUR NATION'S TRANSPORTATION NETWORKS, THE
SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION HAS, AS ALL OF YOU KNOW, ONE
OTHER CRITICAL DUTY.
4
HE COMMANDS THE COAST GUARD -- AND THE COAST GUARD SERVES
ON THE FRONT LINES OF OUR WAR ON DRUGS. I CAN'T THINK OF
ANYONE IN AMERICA WHO HAS SAM SKINNER'S BACKGROUND IN
TRANSPORTATION AND HAS BEEN A DISTINGUISHED U.S. ATTORNEY,
PROSECUTING A NUMBER OF MAJOR CASES.
YES, SAM SKINNER IS THE IDEAL MAN FOR A JOB THAT
WILL, IN THE YEARS AHEAD, PRESENT EXTRAORDINARY
CHALLENGES. I'M SURE THAT I DON'T NEED TO REMIND ANYONE
IN THIS AUDIENCE OF THE HIGH PRIORITY MY ADMINISTRATION
PLACES ON THE WAR ON DRUGS.
5
I PLEDGED IN MY INAUGURAL ADDRESS THAT THIS SCOURGE WILL
STOP -- AND I AM DETERMINED THAT IT WILL. SAM WILL BE
WORKING CLOSELY WITH BILL BENNETT AND I KNOW THAT THEY ARE
GOING TO MAKE A GREAT TEAM.
LET ME MENTION ANOTHER AREA IN WHICH SAM WILL FACE
CHALLENGES -- AVIATION. THE U.S. IS THE SAFEST PLACE IN
THE WORLD TO FLY, AND IT'S GETTING SAFER. THAT SAFETY
RECORD IS YOUR RECORD. THIS DEPARTMENT CARRIES A GREAT
DEAL OF THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE SAFETY OF THE SKIES --
AND CARRIES IT WITH ABILITY AND PRIDE.
6
AND I KNOW THAT YOU JOIN WITH ME IN SAYING THAT WE WON'T
REST UNTIL AIR TRAVEL IN AMERICA IS AS SAFE AS IT CAN BE.
By THE WAY, IN ONE AREA CRITICAL TO SAFE SKIES, SAM
IS HITTING THE GROUND RUNNING -- FORGIVE THE PUN. NEXT
WEEK HE WILL HEAD A DELEGATION TO MONTREAL TO ATTEND A
SPECIAL SESSION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE INTERNATIONAL CIVIL
AVIATION ORGANIZATION. SAM HAS MY MANDATE TO DO ALL HE
CAN AT THAT MEETING TO HASTEN THE DAY WHEN THE
INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY PUTS AN END TO TERRORISM IN THE
SKIES.
7
AVIATION IS NOT, OF COURSE, THE ONLY AREA IN WHICH
SAM AND YOU WILL WORK TOGETHER FOR A BETTER AMERICA. I
LOOK FORWARD TO HIS LEADERSHIP IN THE AREAS OF HIGHWAYS,
BRIDGES, URBAN MASS TRANSIT, INTERCITY RAIL, AND MARITIME
TRANSPORTATION. I THINK ONCE YOU GET TO KNOW HIM YOU'LL
SEE WHY I SAY THAT I CAN'T THINK OF ANYONE I'D RATHER HAVE
IN CHARGE THAN SAM SKINNER.
HAVING SAID SO MUCH TO YOU ABOUT SAM, LET ME NOW SAY
A FEW WORDS TO SAM ABOUT YOU.
8
SAM; IT WOULD BE HARD TO FIND A MORE DEDICATED GROUP OF
PEOPLE IN THE ENTIRE GOVERNMENT THAN THE MEN AND WOMEN OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION. THANKS IN PART TO THEIR
EFFORTS, AMERICA'S TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM IS THE BEST IN
THE WORLD. THEY REPRESENT A LONG AND PROUD TRADITION,
REACHING BACK TO THE VERY FOUNDING OF OUR REPUBLIC -- FOR
ROADS, SHIPPING, AND PROTECTING OUR COASTS FROM SMUGGLERS
HAVE BEEN CONCERNS OF OUR GOVERNMENT FROM THE START.
SOMEBODY SAID OF YOU, SAM, THAT YOU'RE A VISIONARY WHO
THINKS BIG.
9
I EXPECT THAT YOU'LL FIND THAT YOUR NEW COLLEAGUES ARE
ALSO VISIONARIES WHO THINK BIG. AND I KNOW YOU ARE AS
PROUD TO SERVE WITH THEM AS I AM.
So, SAM, AS THEY SAY IN THE RAILROAD BUSINESS,
WELCOME ABOARD. IT'S GREAT TO HAVE YOU ON THE TEAM.
[Now WE WILL WITNESS THE SWEARING-IN.]
1
(Judge)
February 2, 1989
7:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, one of the busiest in the Nation, more
times than he can count. When it comes to air travel, he will
bring a pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our
Government, and that means a perspective that puts safety first,
above all other considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal Government's role in maintaining and improving our
Nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
2
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
Let me mention another area in which Sam will face
challenges -- aviation. The U.S. is the safest place in the
world to fly, and it's getting safer. That safety record is your
record. This Department carries a great deal of the
responsibility for the safety of the skies -- and carries it with
ability and pride. And I know that you join with me in saying
that we won't rest until air travel in America is as safe as it
can be.
By the way, in one area critical to safe skies, Sam is
hitting the ground running -- forgive the pun. Next week he will
head a delegation to Montreal to attend a special session of the
Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization. Sam
has my mandate to do all he can at that meeting to hasten the day
when the international community puts an end to terrorism in the
skies.
3
Aviation is not, of course, the only area in which Sam and
you will work together for a better America. I look forward to
his leadership in the areas of highways, bridges, urban mass
transit, intercity rail, and maritime transportation. I think
once you get to know him you'll see why I say that I can't think
of anyone I'd rather have in charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me now say a few
words to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more
dedicated group of people in the entire Government than the men
and women of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to
their efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
Government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
[Now we will witness the swearing-in.]
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
4:00
2/2/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
2/2/89 C.O.B.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY SKINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
ROGERS
CARD
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
4:00
Please forward your comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by a co.b. b. TODAY, February 2, 1989, with an info copy to my
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
okay
Godon BWhuch
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 2, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER
RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Swearing-In of Secretary
Skinner
The draft remarks for the swearing-in of Secretary Skinner
are excellent in showing his breadth of experience and in giv-
ing appropriate praise to the employees of the Department of
Transportation. This is a department that often has not
received much presidential attention in the past. They will
appreciate it.
My only concern from a policy standpoint in the draft
remarks concerns the second full paragraph on page two dealing
with airline deregulation. Some recent studies have begun to
question the unambiguous success of airline deregulation, par-
ticularly in those markets which are served by only a few
carriers and where prices have gone up sharply recently.
One needs to be very careful in citing figures on air
fares and you will want to check and recheck the figures such
as the claimed 39 percent drop since deregulation. Is this
in nominal or constant dollars? Does this apply to all air
fares or on selected routes? When does one mark the beginning
of airline deregulation? Given the controversy surrounding such
numbers, I suggest deleting the sentences dealing with air
fares.
The most important part of the paragraph deals with air
safety -- which is what most Americans view as the central
role of the Department of Transportation and the Federal
Aviation Administration. Perhaps you could indicate that
even with more passengers and more flights than in any year
in our history, last year was the safest year ever for air
travelers in the United States.
If you have any questions, please let me know.
CC: James W. Cicconi
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
2/2/89
2/2/89 C.O.B.
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY SKINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINS TON
ROGERS
CARD
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by c.o.b. TODAY, February 2, 1989, with an info copy to my
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Judge)
February 1, 1989
6:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
a
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
Secretary
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
7
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
NOT END
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count. When it comes to air travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
In aviation, Sam will face more challenges. Airline
deregulation has proven a clear success. Air travel is no longer
restricted to a well-healed elite. It is within reach of
virtually all Americans. Average airfares today are 39 percent
lower than they were just before deregulation. 39 percent lower
-- what an achievement. And even as prices have dropped safety
has improved. Last year was the safest year ever for air
travelers in the United States.
That record of safety is your record, as well. For this
Department carries a great deal of the responsibility for the
safety of the skies -- and carries it with ability and pride.
You deserve more credit than can ever be given to you for the job
you're doing to make sure that America's air traffic network
remains a model of safety. And I know that you join with me in
saying that we won't rest until air travel is as safe as it can
be.
With rising volumes and aging equipment, we're going to have
to do a lot of work if we're going to keep air travel safe and to
make it even safer. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have in
charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me say a few words
to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more dedicated
group of people in the entire government than the men and women
of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to their
efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
(Judge)
I February 1, 1989
6:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count. When it comes to air travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
In aviation, Sam will face more challenges. Airline
deregulation has proven a clear success. Air travel is no longer
restricted to a well-heeled elite. It is within reach of
21
virtually all Americans. Average airfares today are 39 percent
21
lower than they were just before deregulation. 39 percent lower
-- what an achievement. And even as prices have dropped safety
has improved. Last year was the safest year ever for air
travelers
in
the
United
States.
The us is the afest place in the
mention
world to fly, and it's getting safer.
That record of safety is your record, as well. For this
SAF
and in particular the men and women of the 7.A.A.,
Department (carries a great deal of the responsibility for the
safety of the skies -- and carries it with ability and pride.
You deserve more credit than can ever be given to you for the job
you're doing to make sure that America's air traffic network
remains a model of safety. And I know that you join with me in
saying that we won't rest until air travel is as safe as it can
be.
insert B
wrban mass hampit, to interety rail, roads,
There are major challenges ahead in
With rising volumes and aging equipment, we re going to have
mission is
to do a lot of work if we re going to keep air travel safe and to
make it even safer. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have in
charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me say a few words
to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more dedicated
group of people in the entire government than the men and women
of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to their
efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
[Now, we will witness the swearing -in
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
2/2/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
2/2/89 C.O.B.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY SKINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION YI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
ROGERS
CARD
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by c.o.b. TODAY, February 2, 1989, with an info copy to my
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Smr
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Judge)
February 1, 1989
6:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
15 this accurate or
is it Atlanta? was Atlanta
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count. When it comes to air travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
In aviation, Sam will face more challenges. Airline
deregulation has proven a clear success. Air travel is no longer
restricted to a well-healed elite. It is within reach of
virtually all Americans. Average airfares today are 39 percent
lower than they were just before deregulation. 39 percent lower
-- what an achievement. And even as prices have dropped safety
has improved. Last year was the safest year ever for air
travelers in the United States.
Too much focus
on air travel ?
That record of safety is your record, as well. For this
Department carries a great deal of the responsibility for the
safety of the skies -- and carries it with ability and pride.
You deserve more credit than can ever be given to you for the job
you're doing to make sure that America's air traffic network
remains a model of safety. And I know that you join with me in
saying that we won't rest until air travel is as safe as it can
be.
what about highway systems
7
kailr highway Safety
<
With rising volumes and aging equipment, we're going to have
to do a lot of work if we're going to keep air travel safe and to
make it even safer. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have in
charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me say a few words
to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more dedicated
group of people in the entire government than the men and women
of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to their
efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
2/2/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
2/2/89 C.O.B.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING-IN OF SECRETARY SKINNER
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
ROGERS
CARD
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by c.o.b. TODAY, February 2, 1989, with an info copy to my
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Judge)
February 1, 1989
6:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count. When it comes to air travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
In aviation, Sam will face more challenges. Airline
deregulation has proven a clear success. Air travel is no longer
restricted to a well-healed elite. It is within reach of
virtually all Americans. Average airfares today are 39 percent
lower than they were just before deregulation. 39 percent lower
-- what an achievement. And even as prices have dropped safety
has improved.
Last year was the safest year ever for air
travelers in the United States.
That record of safety is your record, as well. For this
Department carries a great deal of the responsibility for the
safety of the skies -- and carries it with ability and pride.
You deserve more credit than can ever be given to you for the job
you're doing to make sure that America's air traffic network
remains a model of safety. And I know that you join with me in
saying that we won't rest until air travel is as safe as it can
be.
With rising volumes and aging equipment, we're going to have
Our MISSION is
to do a lot of work if we're going to keep air travel safe and to
make it even safer. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have in
charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me say a few words
to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more dedicated
group of people in the entire government than the men and women
of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to their
efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
(Judge)
February 1, 1989
1
6:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
staff
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count. When it comes to air travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
In aviation, Sam will face more challenges. Airline
deregulation has proven a clear success. Air travel is no longer
restricted to a well-he&led elite. It is within reach of
virtually all Americans. Average airfares today are 39 percent
lower than they were just before deregulation. 39 percent lower
-- what an achievement. And even as prices have dropped safety
has improved. Last year was the safest year ever for air
travelers in the United States.
That record of safety is your record, as well. For this
Department carries a great deal of the responsibility for the
safety of the skies -- and carries it with ability and pride.
You deserve more credit than can ever be given to you for the job
you're doing to make sure that America's air traffic network
remains a model of safety. And I know that you join with me in
saying that we won't rest until air travel is as safe as it can
be.
With rising volumes and aging equipment, we're going to have
to do a lot of work if we're going to keep air travel safe and to
make it even safer. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have in
charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me say a few words
to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more dedicated
group of people in the entire government than the men and women
of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to their
efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
(Judge)
February 1, 1989
draft 6 1
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
John Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count. When it comes to air. travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished assistant U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of
major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
In aviation, Sam will face more challenges. Airline
deregulation has proven a clear success. Air travel is no longer
restricted to a well-healed elite. It is within reach of
virtually all Americans. Average airfares today are 39 percent
lower than they were just before deregulation. 39 percent lower
-- what an achievement. And even as prices have dropped safety
has improved. Last year was the safest year ever for air
travelers in the United States.
That record of safety is your record, as well. For this
Department carries a great deal of the responsibility for the
safety of the skies -- and carries it with ability and pride.
You deserve more credit than can ever be given to you for the job
you're doing to make sure that America's air traffic network
remains a model of safety. And I know that you join with me in
saying that we won't rest until air travel is as safe as it can
be.
With rising volumes and aging equipment, we're going to have
to do a lot of work if we're going to keep air travel safe and to
make it even safer. And with the federal budget extremely tight
it may be time to look for imaginative new ways to finance
improvements, including privatization and increasing the
flexibility with which we allocate funds to meet airport capacity
m charge
needs. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have making those
decisions than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me say a few words
to Sam about you. Sam, you won't find a more dedicated group of
people in th entire government than the men and women of the
Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to their efforts,
America's transportation system is the best in the world. They
represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back to the very
founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and protecting
our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our government
from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that you're a
visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find that your
new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. ANd I know
you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 2, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
ASSOCIATE C. DEAN MCGRATH, COUNSEL JR. TO THE WMSA
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Swearing In of Samuel K.
Skinner as Secretary of Transportation
Counsel's office has reviewed the above-referenced Presidential
remarks, and we have no legal objection to their delivery.
CC: James W. Cicconi
(Judge)
February 2, 1989
7:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SWEARING IN OF SAMUEL K. SKINNER
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1989
I am here today to welcome into the Cabinet a man who I
believe is destined to go down in history as one of the truly
outstanding Secretaries of Transportation -- Sam Skinner.
Sam has already made a name for himself as a miracle worker
in transportation. Several years ago, my good friend Governor
Jim Thompson of Illinois put him in charge of the Regional
Transportation Authority of Northeast Illinois. At the time the
R.T.A., as it is known, was plagued with financial troubles and
declining levels of service. Some said that Sam's job was
impossible. But Sam rolled up his sleeves and set to work. And
in short order he put the R.T.A. on a sound financial footing for
the first time in years.
But Sam's expertise in transportation does not stop there.
He's an instrument rated pilot who has flown in and out of
Chicago's O'Hare Airport, the busiest in the nation, more times
than he can count.. When it comes to air travel, he will bring a
pilot's perspective to the highest levels of our government, and
that means a perspective that puts safety first, above all other
considerations.
You'd think all this would be enough, but I haven't finished
Sam's qualifications for this job. Besides overseeing the
Federal government's role in maintaining and improving our
nation's transportation networks, the Secretary of Transportation
has, as all of you know, one other critical duty. He commands
the Coast Guard -- and the Coast Guard serves on the front lines
of our war on drugs. I can't think of anyone in America who has
Sam Skinner's background in transportation and has been a
distinguished U.S. Attorney, prosecuting a number of major cases.
Yes, Sam Skinner is the ideal man for a job that will, in
the years ahead, present extraordinary challenges. I'm sure that
I don't need to remind anyone in this audience of the high
priority my Administration places on the war on drugs. I pledged
in my inaugural address that this scourge will stop -- and I am
determined that it will. Sam will be working closely with Bill
Bennett and I know that they are going to make a great team.
Let me mention another area in which Sam will face
challenges -- aviation. The U.S. is the safest place in the
world to fly, and it's getting safer. That safety record is your
record. This Department carries a great deal of the
responsibility for the safety of the skies -- and carries it with
ability and pride. And I know that you join with me in saying
that we won't rest until air travel in America is as safe as it
can be.
By the way, in one area critical to safe skies, Sam is
hitting the ground running -- forgive the pun. Next week he will
head a delegation to Montreal to attend a special session of the
Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization. Sam
has my mandate to do all he can at that meeting to hasten the day
when the international community puts an end to terrorism in the
skies.
Aviation is not, of course, the only area in which Sam and
you will work together for a better America. Highways, bridges,
urban mass transit, intercity rail, and maritime transportation
will all demand attention. I think once you get to know him
you'll see why I say that I can't think of anyone I'd rather have
in charge than Sam Skinner.
Having said so much to you about Sam, let me now say a few
words to Sam about you. Sam, it would be hard to find a more
dedicated group of people in the entire government than the men
and women of the Department of Transportation. Thanks in part to
their efforts, America's transportation system is the best in the
world. They represent a long and proud tradition, reaching back
to the very founding of our Republic -- for roads, shipping, and
protecting our coasts from smugglers have been concerns of our
government from the start. Somebody said of you, Sam, that
you're a visionary who thinks big. I expect that you'll find
that your new colleagues are also visionaries who think big. And
I know you are as proud to serve with them as I am.
So, Sam, as they say in the railroad business, welcome
aboard. It's great to have you on the team.
[Now we will witness the swearing-in.]