THE DEATH OF THE 38th U.S. PRESIDENT GERALD FORD

28 December 2006

On the passing of President Gerald R. Ford, I extend on behalf of all Australians our deepest sympathy to Mrs Ford, her family and the people of the United States of America.

President Ford was widely recognised as a humble and decent man who assumed his high office at a difficult time.

As many U.S. commentators have observed, history will remember him as the ‘healing president’.

Throughout his long and distinguished life, he served his country with courage and integrity.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad time.