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Arriving at the U.S. Department of Agriculture on the National Mall, a familiar face from
many walks of life. Hello. Former bodybuilder, actor and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
was honored by the USDA Forest Service for his work on climate change and other environmental
issues. Governor, you have been a true global leader in the fight against climate change,
a true friend to the planet's forests. I'd like to present you with a Forest Service
jacket, complete with a badge and a plaque that's commemorating today's designation.
(applause) and you also get the honorary Smokey Bear (laughter) For me to receive this award
and to be one of the rangers, I mean it really touches my heart. So i just want to say thank
you very much for this great, great honor. Thank you and I'm looking forward to working
with you in the future. Thank you (applause) He joins actress Betty White and musician
and tree farmer Chuck Leavell in the ranks of honorary USDA forest rangers. I have seen
firsthand...He says he learned the value of Forest Service firefighters when he was governor
of California, where he says climate change has led to more frequent wild fires. Over
the last 30 years we now have 60 percent more land that is burning because of climate change.
So this is a tremendous pressure that it puts on everyone and every firefighter. The U.S.
Forest Service, and their firefighters are without any doubt the best firefighters in
the world. (applause) For Schwarzenegger, after a lifetime of competition, Hollywood
stardom and governing, it's a chance for a fourth career. This is really terrific, I
love this. (laughter). You're right; this is going to be my fourth career. (applause)
In Washington, D.C. for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, I'm Pat O'Leary.