Steven M. Rales, Chairman of the Danaher Board of Directors, stated, "This announced transition comes at a time when Danaher has never been stronger or better positioned to compete given our attractive portfolio of businesses, seasoned leadership team, and Danaher Business System culture. The selection of Rainer to succeed Tom reflects the culmination of our ongoing succession planning process. Rainer has a demonstrated track record of respected leadership and success over the past decade at Danaher and is the ideal candidate to lead the Company going forward." Mr. Rales continued, "Tom's leadership during the last six years as CEO has been extraordinary. During his tenure, Danaher delivered shareholder returns three times that of the S&P500 Index.