PRESIDENT BUSH SIGNS HOMELAND SECURITY ACT, 2002-11-25 (photo)

Surrounded by members of Congress, U.S. President Bush George W. Bush (C) prepares to sign the Homeland Security Act November 25, 2002 creating a vast Department of Homeland Security to prevent terrorist attacks on the United States, setting in motion the biggest government reorganization in half a century that could take years to complete. "The continuing threat of terrorism, the threat of mass murder on our own soil will be met by a unified, effective response," Bush said at the White House signing ceremony. Joining Bush on stage (L-R) are Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-CT), Rep. Ellen Tauscher (D-CA), Rep. Dick Armey (R-TX), Sen. Zell Miller (D-GA), Sen. Fred Thompson (R-TN), Rep. Rob Portman (R-OH) and Rep. Don Nickles (R-OK). REUTERS/Win McNamee WM/GAC