President Obama To Welcome Patriots At White House On April 23
BOSTON (CBS) -- The New England Patriots are going to Washington. Again.
The White House announced on Thursday that President Barack Obama will honor the Super Bowl champions on April 23 at 2 p.m.
It is, of course, an honor extended to all national champions, and it will be the Patriots' fourth trip to D.C. since April 2002.
The Patriots' previous three White House trips -- in 2002, 2004 and 2005 -- all came when President George W. Bush was in office. This year will mark the team's first visit to President Obama.
It was their visit in 2004 -- following the victory over the Panthers in Super Bowl XXXVIII -- when President Bush and Bill Belichick shared this classic exchange:
President Bush: "I also appreciate so very much the coach. I don't know what it's like in the locker room, but I remember when you were here last year -- or two years ago -- and you said you were going to say a few words and you said like four words."
Belichick: "I got carried away."
President Bush enjoyed some more jokes at Belichick's expense when the team visited in April 2005, following the Super Bowl XXXIX win over the Eagles.
President Bush: "Welcome. Well, back again. I was thinking that Coach Belichick was so comfortable coming to the Rose Garden that he might just wear one of those designer sweatshirts. I'm a little disappointed. I'm glad to see you own a tie, though.
Belichick: Is this a roast?
This time around, as in years past, the team will be lauded not only for its accomplishments on the field but also for its dedication to community service.