Bush send sympathy, commits support in weekly radio address

ABC News’ Will Wemer reports: President Bush offered condolences to those who died in Wednesday’s bridge collapse during his weekly radio address, and announced financial support for the bridge reconstruction project.

"Laura and I join all Americans in mourning those who lost their lives and in sending our thoughts and prayers to their families," Bush said. "And we pray that those injured will make a full recovery."

The President and First Lady Laura Bush arrived in Minnesota Saturday morning to visit the site of the collapse.

Bush announced the approval of $5 million of emergency funding, which will assist federal and Minnesota state officials in their relief efforts. Bush said he plans to work closely with Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty and Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak to rebuild the I-35W bridge, which carried over 140,000 vehicles a day.

Bush finished his radio address by saluting Jeremy Hernandez, a camp counselor who evacuated a school bus, which fell nearly 20 feet when the bridge collapsed.

"Our country is fortunate to have brave and selfless citizens like Jeremy, and all those who risked their own safety to aid in the rescue. This is a difficult time for the community in Minneapolis, but the people there are decent and resilient, and they will get through these painful hours," Bush said.