President Bush has nominated former CIA director Robert Gates as Rumsfeld’s replacement. The President appeared with Gates and Rumsfeld at the White House.

President Bush: “Don Rumsfeld is a tough act to follow. That’s why I picked a man of Bob Gates’s caliber to succeed him. When confirmed by the Senate, Bob will bring talent, energy and innovation to the Department of Defense. He’ll work every day to keep the American people safe and to make our nation more secure. And he’ll do a superb job as America’s next Secretary of Defense.”

Standing next to the President, Rumsfeld also made a brief comment to reporters.

Donald Rumsfeld: “I must say that it’s been the highest honor of my life to serve with the talented men and women of the Department of Defense, the amazing men and women — young men and women in uniform. It’s a privilege. And their patriotism, their professionalism, their dedication is truly an inspiration. They have my respect; they will remain in my prayers always.”