Being President is a great honor, and I am proud to serve as President at this historic moment in the life of our Nation. Americans have overcome great challenges in the last three years. When our country was attacked on September 11, 2001 we responded with amazing unity and strength. We came together to help families who lost loved ones, and we set out to defeat the terrorists who attacked us.

We have extended freedom and opportunity to millions of people around the world. Today, more than 50 million men and women in Afghanistan and Iraq are free, thanks to the bravery of our military and our allies from many nations. In Afghanistan, women are now allowed to go to work, and girls are going to school for the first time in their lives. In Iraq, people no longer live in fear of a terrible dictator, Saddam Hussein. In both countries, men and women will soon vote to choose their own leaders, just as we do here in America.

As we make the world safer and more peaceful, we are also working to ensure that America is a land of opportunity for all. Our economy is strong, but I will not be satisfied until every person who wants to work can find a job. I signed a new law to help many of your grandparents afford their medicines. And, I led the effort to reform America's education system, so all children learn the skills they need to be successful as adults. We have set a goal of making sure every child can read by the third grade. Students are being tested so that if someone is falling behind in their lessons, they can get help to catch up.

As President, I have the responsibility to encourage the generosity and compassion of the American people. I set up an office in the White House to support the work of faith-based organizations, such as those that mentor children, help people overcome addictions, deliver meals to the homeless, and perform many other good works. And I have called on all Americans to dedicate 2 years or 4,000 hours over the course of their lives to volunteer work. That may sound like a long time, but if you get started early it is something every American can accomplish.

I will continue to travel around the country, talking to people about how we can build on the progress we have made. I enjoy meeting so many people who are enthusiastic and optimistic about America's future. Over the next few months, you will hear a lot of news about the presidential campaign, both at home and at school. Remember, the decisions national leaders make today will affect our country for many years to come. I hope you will take the time to learn about the candidates and to talk to your parents and teachers about the issues and how the electoral process works. You might even ask your mom or dad if you can go with them when they vote.

The great thing about our democracy is our citizens are given the power to decide who our leaders are and to set our Nation's course for the future. As President, I serve all the people of the United States, and I hope to continue my service for another four years.