Dear Mr. White:
We are putting into the mail a photograph of Secretary Gates for you.
Your request implies respect and support, and in the Secretary
appreciates both.
In light of his many heavy responsibilities, such as working to win the
war on terrorism and ensuring the best possible care for our troops,
the Secretary has decided not to provide what have come to be considered
customary autographs for collectors. I hope you will understand that
this decision simply reflects his dedication to the tasks at hand, and
the limits on his time to accomplish them.
Sincerely yours,
Harold Heilsnis
Director for Public Communication
What does he mean by
In light of his many heavy responsibilities, such as working to win the
war on terrorism and ensuring the best possible care for our troops,
the Secretary has decided not to provide what have come to be considered
customary autographs for collectors. I hope you will understand that
this decision simply reflects his dedication to the tasks at hand, and
the limits on his time to accomplish them.
