Bush: McCain is ready to lead this nation

President George W. Bush started his message to the Republican National Convention with information about Hurricane Gustav and then saluted the man he hopes will become his successor in the Oval Office.

Bush talked about the president being alone in making decisions. "John McCain's life has prepared him to make those choices. He is ready to lead this nation."

The president referred to McCain's service as a naval officer as well as an elected official and noted that McCain has "earned the respect of colleagues from both parties."

Bush noted, "If the Hanoi Hilton did not break John McCain's resolve to serve his country, you can be sure the angry left never will."

Bush praised McCain's support for the surge, despite warnings that it could bring his run for the White House to an abrupt halt.

"The man we need," President Bush said, "is John McCain."