First Bush Family Member Enlists In The U.S. Armed Forces. Could Eventually Fight In Iraq.

MUSTANG PRARIE, TEXAS--President George W. Bush's cousin became the first Bush family member to volunteer for the Iraq war.

Early this morning, Jacob "Jake" P. Bush, the President's second cousin, enlisted in the Marine Corps at his local Texas recruiting station.

"He's a determined fellow," said Niles Bush, Jacob's father. "I'm surprised, and a little overwhelmed, but very proud, certainly."

In Washington, the Bush administration was guarded in their response.

"The president is pleased and honored that Jake will serve his country, but he does not wish to politicize [the enlistment] simply to counter recent criticism," said White House press secretary Scott McClellan, in a prepared statement.

McClellan is referring to dissenting groups such as Operation Yellow Elephant who have reproved the president because no members of his family are fighting in the Iraq war.

So far, Jacob Bush has refused comment, but his father thinks his son took exception to the criticism. "He didn't like it," said Bush. "I think he wanted to make a statement."

Four-year-old Jacob will start boot camp in 2019.







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