Statement by the President

WASHINGTON--(Business Wire)--
Laura and I were saddened to learn of the passing of Jim McKay.
For a generation of Americans, Jim was more than the much-honored host
of Wide World of Sports and ABC's Olympic coverage. He was a talented
and eloquent newsman and storyteller whose special gift was his
ability to make the viewers at home genuinely care about more than
just who won or lost.

Jim was at his best during what had to be his most difficult
assignment, hosting with skill and sensitivity ABC's blanket coverage
of the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis.

Off camera he was a compassionate and generous person and devoted
family man.

We are also grateful for Jim's service to his country as a Naval
officer aboard a minesweeper during World War II.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Jim's wife, Margaret, his
children Sean and Mary, and all of his family and friends.

White House Press Office
1-202-456-2580

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