(Charleston) -- President Bush told several thousand people gathered on a pier in downtown Charleston today that America did
the right thing in Iraq.

Bush was warmly greeted as he arrived to give a speech on homeland security to a crowd that included military personnel,
Citadel cadets and local law enforcement among others.

Bush says September Eleventh was a lesson for America and the nation can not wait to confront the threats of the world. Bush
says he will not stand by and hope for the best while danger gathers.

As Bush spoke, a chill wind blew in from the Cooper River. A Coast Guard cutter was on the river behind Bush.

Bush arrived at Charleston Air Force Base with Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and South
Carolina's Republican Congressional delegation.

Bush was greeted by several South Carolina dignitaries at the base, including Governor Mark Sanford and House Speaker David
Wilkins. Wilkins is chairman of the South Carolina campaign to re-elect Bush.

Bush left Charleston at about 12:45pm after greeting about 200 Air Force reservists at the base.

Bush's visit today comes two days after Democrats held a first-in-the South primary in South Carolina.