Statement by Assistant
to the President for Press Relations Fitzwater on the Leadership of the
Presidential Commission on the Human Immunodeficiency Virus Epidemic
The
President today accepted with deep regret the resignation of Dr. W. Eugene
Mayberry as Chairman and a member of the Presidential Commission on the Human
Immunodeficiency Virus Epidemic.
Dr.
Mayberry said: ``I have been honored to be part of the Commission that you
established to bring both public attention and health attention to the issue of
AIDS. Your leadership has been important in setting a course for our country on
dealing with this health problem.'' The President said: ``I deeply regret that
Gene Mayberry will not be able to continue serving as Chairman of the AIDS
Commission. He brought to the Commission a well-respected background as the
head of one of the world's most outstanding health facilities.''
The
President today designated Adm. James D. Watkins, U.S. Navy, Ret., a current
member of the Commission, as Chairman. Admiral Watkins is the former Chief of
Naval Operations and currently directs the National Program for Personal
Excellence.
``I
am sure that Jim Watkins will provide the leadership that is necessary for this
commission to review fully all aspects of the AIDS epidemic,'' the President
said. The President met with Admiral Watkins today to discuss the work of the
Commission. The Admiral expressed his willingness to devote his full time and
energies in leading the Commission to complete its important task.