PRESIDENT TRUMP: "In the wake of this horrible storm, many Americans felt helpless, and abandoned, and left behind by their government. And yet, in North Carolina's hour of desperation, the American people answered the call, much more-so than your federal government."
Video transcript
"In the wake of this horrible storm, many Americans in this region felt helpless and abandoned and left behind by their government. And yet in North Carolina's hour of desperation, the American people answered the call, much more so than your federal government, unfortunately. Citizens poured into western North Carolina from all over the country, bringing food, fuel, medical aid, even helicopters, and their own rescue standards started. And they started at a very high level, credible, what they've done. Having no experience, they learned very quickly, but they've helped so much. Nothing is more inspiring than to see the American spirit triumph over adversity with the most selfless acts of generosity and love. One of the patrons who stepped forward to help was Adam Smith, a former Green Beret. Adam transformed the parking lot of a Harley-Davidson dealership into a makeshift airbase to help distribute supplies. Did an incredible job, Adam. What an amazing act of citizenship and service, and I think Adam might be here. Where's Adam? Adam, come on up here. Say a few words, Adam. (Applause.) Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Great job. I've seen him on television quite a bit. What a job you've done. Thank you. Can I give you something for us? Yes. Thank you. This is a little token for my guys. Thank you very much. That's been with us since the third day. That's for you. And this is the moniker they've given us. Thank you very much. Thank you, Mr. President. I appreciate it. Thank you. Please. I just want to say thank you for coming. Thank you for everybody here. The biggest fear that western North Carolina is sitting on right now, at least from the communities we've talked to, is being forgotten. And to have you here and to have an opportunity to have this conversation at a national level will keep western North Carolina on the map and not leave the communities holding the bag on the back end of this. So we're very grateful that you've shown up and we're very grateful that you've taken the time. We're also appreciative in the timeline that you did it and gave us space to operate and function and gave us space to provide relief where it needed to go, and we're very grateful for that, Mr. President. Thanks, Adam. Thank you very much, sir. Great job. (Applause.) Thank you very much.
Transcribed automatically. Expect errors in names and numbers.