Obama: Fort Hood Shootings ‘A Horrific Outburst Of Violence’

President Barack Obama
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President Obama spoke briefly about the shootings at Fort Hood in Texas today which left 12 dead and 31 wounded, calling the incident “horrific.”

“A number of American soldiers have been killed and even more have been wounded in a horrific outburst of violence. My immediate thoughts and prayers are with the wounded, and the families of the fallen, and those who live and serve at Fort Hood,” he said.

“Men and women who have made the courageous decision to risk and at some times give their lives,” he said. “It’s difficult enough when we lose these brave Americans overseas. It is horrifying that they should come under fire at an Army base on American soil.”

Obama said he has met with Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Adm. Mike Mullen.

He also said the White House is working with the Pentagon, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security “to ensure Fort Hood is secure.”

“We will make sure we get answers to every single question about this horrible incident,” he said.

“As commander in chief, there is no greater honor, but also no greater responsibility for me than to make sure the extraordinary men and women in uniform are properly cared for, and that their safety and security when they are at home is provided for,” he said. “We are going to stay on this.”

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