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administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
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Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
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Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13480
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13480-008
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Discovery Astronauts, 3/24/89
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25
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1
7
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
March 24, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO THE DISCOVER SHUTTLE ASTRONAUTS
Room 450
Old Executive Office Building
11:30 A.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. Dr. Fletcher and Admiral
Truly, Commander Mike Cots and crew, friends and families. First,
let me just take a second to salute Dr. Fletcher, whose name has
become almost synonymous with NASA's. And, as you know, he will be
retiring on April 8th and I want to thank him for his example, for
his leadership and for his commitment to this space program. He's
been an inspiration to everbody -- not just in this administration
and in government, but all across the country and we all owe him a
vote of great thanks. (Applause.)
And I think Jim, like these gentlemen with me, show that
America is a nation -- a family. And there are moments when we
celebrate as a family would -- moments of remembrance and moments of
pride. And last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed
these gentlemen's return to Andrews -- Andrews -- Freudian slip --
(laughter) -- Edwards Air Force Base. And they were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and to your enterprise.
And today we, too, salute the story that you've written.
You've shown once again that teamwork works. And, in a sense though,
your triumph is personal. After all, it's you who braved the
elements and performed the tasks which made this mission such a
success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as
American as Opening Day, timeless as our history. And it says that
to Americans -- nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare and to dream the impossible. My friends, this
quality has graced every great moment of the American story. And by
enriching our lives and our children's lives, it can shape America's
dreams of the 21st century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed anew America's
genius in science and technology. By conducting the protein crystal
growth experiments, you furthered advancements in medical research.
And you used the IMAX camera to study this planet's environmental
damage. And I hope that this will lead -- I'm confident it will --
to our knowledge base and that that, in turn, will lead to reducing
the threat to our Earth's environment. And you launch a TADR
Satellite, which completes the Satellite Communications Network that
will allow us more effectively and efficiently to relay data from all
of our scientific satellites to Earth.
- 2 -
Andrew show how America's future will depend, in space and on Earth,
on our most precious resource -- our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of the majesty --
the awful majesty of outer space. This voyage of the Shuttle
Discovery is over, but its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer
space with the greatness of America. And we're going forge even
strong links as we reaffirm our commitment to the shuttle program, as
our science missions open up new horizons of knowledge and as Space
Station Freedom symbolizes the promise of man.
As we do, we will honor the spirit of Discovery -- the
spirit which throws open the possibilities of tomorrow and which
points us toward the stars.
Gentlemen, your mission is accomplished. Your nation
says, well done, thank you, God bless you and God bless America.
Thank you, fellas. (Applause.)
COMMANDER COTS: Well, thank you, Mr. President. We
deeply appreciate your words of support for our country's space
program. We represent thousands of people that work very hard to get
the shuttle off the ground each time, and the encouragement you've
shown is deeply appreciated.
We also appreciate your words talking about family and
the importance of youth. All of us on this crew are very proud of
our wives and of our children. And when we're not working in the
space program, we're talking about our families. And it's been very
encouraging to us to see you and Mrs. Bush and the emphasis that you
place on family. We think it's wonderful, and we applaud that, Sir.
We presented Mrs. Bush with a gold shuttle charm on a
necklace earlier this morning. When it became obvious that we would
be flying the first flight of this administration, we had a lot of
discussion about what to fly for the President. And it became
apparent quickly that we really wanted to fly something for Mrs. Bush
as well. She's obviously a very special lady, and she's very special
to us, and we presented that with her this morning, and we'd like to
thank you for a very special First Lady. (Applause.)
When we discussed what to fly for our new President, most
of us, of course, being home-ported in Houston, Texas, we wanted to
fly a Texas flag. It became obvious that, as proud as we are of our
new President being from Texas, it probably wasn't appropriate to
give you a Texas flag, Sir, since you're now President of all these
United States. So we did fly a United States flag, and we'd like to
present that to you right now, Sir. And with it goes this plaque
that says, "Presented to the President of the United States of
America, George Bush. This United States flag was flown in the
official flight kit aboard the Orbiter Discovery, STS 29, March 13th
through 18th, 1989. And each of the crew members have signed it.
Sir, thank you very much.
THE PRESIDENT: That's lovely. Well, thank you for the
special -- that actually went? Thank you all. (Applause.) Let me
get the wives to come up. Come up here, ladies, so they can get a
fitting group picture here. Pick out a husband. (Laughter.)
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
March 24, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO THE DISCOVER SHUTTLE ASTRONAUTS
Room 450
Old Executive Office Building
11:30 A.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. Dr. Fletcher and Admiral
Truly, Commander Mike Cots and crew, friends and families. First,
let me just take a second to salute Dr. Fletcher, whose name has
become almost synonymous with NASA's. And, as you know, he will be
retiring on April 8th and I want to thank him for his example, for
his leadership and for his commitment to this space program. He's
been an inspiration to everbody -- not just in this administration
and in government, but all across the country and we all owe him a
vote of great thanks. (Applause.)
And I think Jim, like these gentlemen with me, show that
America is a nation -- a family. And there are moments when we
celebrate as a family would -- moments of remembrance and moments of
pride. And last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed
these gentlemen's return to Andrews -- Andrews -- Freudian slip --
(laughter) -- Edwards Air Force Base. And they were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and to your enterprise.
And today, we, too, salute the story that you've written.
You've shown once again that teamwork works. And, in a sense though,
your triumph is personal. After all, it's you who braved the
elements and performed the tasks which made this mission such a
success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as
American as Opening Day, timeless as our history. And it says that
to Americans -- nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare and to dream the impossible. My friends, this
quality has graced every great moment of the American story. And by
enriching our lives and our children's lives, it can shape America's
dreams of the 21st century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed anew America's
genius in science and technology. By conducting the protein crystal
growth experiments, you furthered advancements in medical research.
And you used the IMAX camera to study this planet's environmental
damage. And I hope that this will lead -- I'm confident it will --
to our knowledge base and that that, in turn, will lead to reducing
the threat to our Earth's environment. And you launch a TADR
Satellite, which completes the Satellite Communications Network that
will allow us more effectively and efficiently to relay data from all
of our scientific satellites to Earth.
- 2 -
Andrew show how America's future will depend, in space and on Earth,
on our most precious resource -- our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of the majesty --
the awful majesty of outer space. This voyage of the Shuttle
Discovery is over, but its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer
space with the greatness of America. And we're going forge even
strong links as we reaffirm our commitment to the shuttle program, as
our science missions open up new horizons of knowledge and as Space
Station Freedom symbolizes the promise of man.
As we do, we will honor the spirit of Discovery -- the
spirit which throws open the possibilities of tomorrow and which
points us toward the stars.
Gentlemen, your mission is accomplished. Your nation
says, well done, thank you, God bless you and God bless America.
Thank you, fellas. (Applause.)
COMMANDER COTS: Well, thank you, Mr. President. We
deeply appreciate your words of support for our country's space
program. We represent thousands of people that work very hard to get
the shuttle off the ground each time, and the encouragement you've
shown is deeply appreciated.
We also appreciate your words talking about family and
the importance of youth. All of us on this crew are very proud of
our wives and of our children. And when we're not working in the
space program, we're talking about our families. And it's been very
encouraging to us to see you and Mrs. Bush and the emphasis that you
place on family. We think it's wonderful, and we applaud that, Sir.
We presented Mrs. Bush with a gold shuttle charm on a
necklace earlier this morning. When it became obvious that we would
be flying the first flight of this administration, we had a lot of
discussion about what to fly for the President. And it became
apparent quickly that we really wanted to fly something for Mrs. Bush
as well. She's obviously a very special lady, and she's very special
to us, and we presented that with her this morning, and we'd like to
thank you for a very special First Lady. (Applause.)
When we discussed what to fly for our new President, most
of us, of course, being home-ported in Houston, Texas, we wanted to
fly a Texas flag. It became obvious that, as proud as we are of our
new President being from Texas, it probably wasn't appropriate to
give you a Texas flag, sir, since you're now President of all these
United States. So we did fly a United States flag, and we'd like to
present that to you right now, Sir. And with it goes this plaque
that says, "Presented to the President of the United States of
America, George Bush. This United States flag was flown in the
official flight kit aboard the Orbiter Discovery, STS 29, March 13th
through 18th, 1989. And each of the crew members have signed it.
Sir, thank you very much.
THE PRESIDENT: That's lovely. Well, thank you for the
special -- that actually went? Thank you all. (Applause.) Let me
get the wives to come up. Come up here, ladies, so they can get a
fitting group picture here. Pick out a husband. (Laughter.)
REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROOM 450
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
11:20 A.M.
DR. FLETCHER, ADMIRAL TRULY, COMMANDER COATS AND
CREW, FRIENDS AND FAMILIES.
FIRST, LET ME TAKE A MOMENT TO SALUTE JAMES FLETCHER,
WHOSE NAME HAS BECOME ALMOST SYNONYMOUS WITH NASA's. As
YOU KNOW, JIM WILL BE RETIRING APRIL 8. AND I WANT TO
THANK HIM FOR HIS EXAMPLE AND HIS LEADERSHIP.
2
JIM HAS SHOWN, AS YOU HAVE -- THE COMMANDER AND CREW
OF DISCOVERY -- THAT AMERICA IS A NATION, AND A FAMILY.
AND THERE ARE MOMENTS WHEN WE CELEBRATE, AS A FAMILY
WOULD: MOMENTS OF REMEMBERING, AND OF PRIDE.
LAST SATURDAY, NEARLY HALF A MILLION PEOPLE WELCOMED
YOUR RETURN TO EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE. THEY WERE THERE TO
PAY AMERICA'S RESPECTS TO YOUR COURAGE AND YOUR
ENTERPRISE.
3
TODAY, WE, Too, SALUTE THE STORY YOU HAVE WRITTEN.
YOU'VE SHOWN ONCE AGAIN THAT TEAMWORK WORKS.
IN A SENSE, YOUR TRIUMPH IS PERSONAL. AFTER ALL,
IT'S YOU WHO BRAVED THE ELEMENTS AND PERFORMED THE TASKS
WHICH MADE YOUR MISSION A SUCCESS.
BUT IN A LARGER SENSE, THE STORY OF DISCOVERY IS AS
AMERICAN AS OPENING DAY AND AS TIMELESS AS OUR HISTORY.
4
IT SAYS THAT, TO AMERICANS, NOTHING LIES BEYOND OUR REACH.
IT SPEAKS TO OUR CAPACITY TO DARE, AND TO DREAM THE
IMPOSSIBLE.
MY FRIENDS, THIS QUALITY HAS GRACED EVERY GREAT
MOMENT OF THE AMERICAN STORY. AND BY ENRICHING OUR LIVES,
AND OUR CHILDREN'S LIVES, IT CAN SHAPE AMERICA'S DREAMS OF
THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY.
5
ON THE FLIGHT OF DISCOVERY, YOU SHOWED, ANEW,
AMERICA'S GENIUS IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.
BY CONDUCTING PROTEIN CRYSTAL GROWTH EXPERIMENTS, YOU
FURTHERED ADVANCEMENTS IN MEDICAL RESEARCH. You USED AN
IMAX [I-MAX] CAMERA TO STUDY THIS PLANET'S ENVIRONMENTAL
DAMAGE. I HOPE THIS WILL LEAD TO REDUCING THE THREATS TO
OUR EARTH'S ENVIRONMENT.
6
AND YOU LAUNCHED A TDRS [TEE-DRESS] SATELLITE WHICH
COMPLETES THE SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK THAT WILL
ALLOW US -- MORE EFFECTIVELY AND EFFICIENTLY -- TO RELAY
DATA FROM ALL OF OUR SCIENTIFIC SATELLITES TO EARTH.
IN SHORT, YOU SHOWED EXACTLY WHERE WE ARE GOING, AND
WHY. WE ARE EXPLORING THE NEW HORIZONS OF THIS NATION'S
TECHNOLOGICAL FUTURE. FOR, AS AMERICANS, WE ARE DRIVEN,
ALWAYS, BY A RESTLESSNESS TO DO BETTER.
7
THIS DESIRE LINKS THE GENERATIONS, AND HAS PUSHED
BACK THE FRONTIERS OF RESEARCH AND EXPLORATION. FOR
EVIDENCE, I POINT TO TWO STUDENTS HERE TODAY. THEY SHOW
HOW TOMORROW'S TECHNOLOGICAL PROMISE LIES IN THE YOUTH OF
TODAY.
JOHN VELLINGER WAS IN 9TH GRADE WHEN HE STARTED WORK
ON AN EXPERIMENT, USING CHICKEN EMBRYOS, TO STUDY HOW
TISSUES DEVELOP IN WEIGHTLESSNESS. LAST WEEK, HIS
EXPERIMENT FLEW ON THE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY.
8
AND so DID THE WORK OF ANDREW FRAS [FRAHS]. HIS
EXPERIMENT STUDIED MICROGRAVITY'S EFFECT ON THE HEALING OF
BONES.
JOHN VELLINGER AND ANDREW FRAS SHOW HOW AMERICA'S
FUTURE WILL DEPEND -- IN SPACE AND ON EARTH -- ON OUR MOST
PRECIOUS RESOURCE, OUR YOUTH.
You KNOW, ADLAI STEVENSON ONCE SPOKE OF "THE AWFUL
MAJESTY OF OUTER SPACE."
9
MY FRIENDS, THIS VOYAGE OF THE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY IS
OVER. BUT ITS SPIRIT LIVES, LINKING THE MAJESTY OF OUTER
SPACE WITH THE GREATNESS OF AMERICA. AND WE WILL FORGE
EVEN STRONGER LINKS AS WE REAFFIRM OUR COMMITMENT TO THE
SHUTTLE PROGRAM, AS OUR SCIENCE MISSIONS OPEN NEW HORIZONS
OF KNOWLEDGE, AND AS SPACE STATION FREEDOM SYMBOLIZES THE
PROMISE OF MAN.
10
As WE DO, WE WILL HONOR THE SPIRIT OF DISCOVERY: THE
SPIRIT WHICH THROWS OPEN THE POSSIBILITIES OF TOMORROW --
AND WHICH POINTS US TOWARD THE STARS.
MEN, YOUR MISSION IS ACCOMPLISHED, AND YOUR NATION
SAYS, "WELL DONE." THANK YOU, GOD BLESS YOU, AND GOD
BLESS AMERICA.
###
01966685
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
3/23/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1803 HAR 23
(Smith/Blessey)
March 23, 1989
Draft Three, 2:30 p.m.
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
11:15 A.M.
Dr. Fletcher, Admiral Truly, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families.
First, let me take a moment to salute James Fletcher, whose
name has become almost synonymous with NASA's. As you know, Jim
will be retiring April 8. And I want to thank him for his
example and his leadership.
Jim has shown, as you have -- the commander and crew of
Discovery -- that America is a nation, and a family. And there
are moments when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of
remembering, and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add this personal note. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
2
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. You've shown that teamwork works.
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology.
By conducting Protein Crystal Growth experiments, you
furthered advancements in medical research. You used an IMAX
[I-max] camera to study and, perhaps, one day reduce this
planet's environmental damage. And you launched a TDRS
[TEE-dress] satellite which completes the satellite
communications network that will allow us -- more effectively,
3
efficiently -- to relay data from all of our scientific
satellites to earth.
In short, you showed exactly where we are going, and why.
We are exploring the new horizons of this nation's technological
future. For, as Americans, we are driven, always, by a
restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students standing here with me. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras [FRAHS]. His
experiment studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andrew Fras show how America's future
will depend -- in space and on earth -- on our most precious
resource, our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space."
4
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
greatness of America. And we will forge even stronger links as
we reaffirm our commitment to the Shuttle program, as our science
missions open new horizons of knowledge, and as Space Station
Freedom symbolizes the promise of man.
As we do, we will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit
which throws open the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which
points us toward the stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
###
(Smith/Blessey)
March 23, 1989
Draft Three, 2 p.m.
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
11:15 A.M.
Dr. Fletcher, Admiral Truly, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families.
a moment
First, let me take this opportunity to salute James
Fletcher, whose name has become almost synonymous with NASA's.
As you know, Jim will be retiring April 8. And I want to thank
him for his example and his leadership.
Jim has shown, as you have -- the commander and crew of
Discovery -- that America is a nation, and a family. And there
are moments when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of
remembering, and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add this personal note. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
2
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. You've shown that teamwork works.
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology.
By conducting Protein Crystal Growth experiments, you
furthered advancements in medical research. You used an IMAX
[I-max] camera to study and, perhaps, one day reduce this
planet's environmental damage. And you launched a TDRS
[TEE-dress] satellite which completes the satellite
communications network that will allow us -- more effectively,
3
efficiently -- to relay data from all of our scientific
satellites to earth.
In short, you showed exactly where we are going, and why.
We are exploring the new horizons of this nation's technological
future. For, as Americans, we are driven, always, by a
restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students standing here with Today me.
They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras [FRAHS]. His
experiment studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andrew Fras show how America's future
will depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious
resource, our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space."
4
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
greatness of America. And we will forge even stronger links as
we reaffirm our commitment to the Shuttle program, as our science
missions open new horizons of knowledge, and as Space Station
Freedom symbolizes the promise of man.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well done. " Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
# # #
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
3/24/89
:: 200
(Smith/Blessey)
March 23, 1989
Draft Three, 2:30 p.m.
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
11:15 A.M.
Dr. Fletcher, Admiral Truly, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families.
First, let me take a moment to salute James Fletcher, whose
name has become almost synonymous with NASA's. As you know, Jim
will be retiring April 8. And I want to thank him for his
example and his leadership.
Jim has shown, as you have -- the commander and crew of
Discovery -- that America is a nation, and a family. And there
are moments when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of
remembering, and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And
I
want to add this personal note. As Commander- Chief, I am
2
one civilian is
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
once again
Armed Services. You've shown that teamwork works.
A
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology.
By conducting Protein Crystal Growth experiments, you
furthered advancements in medical research. You used an IMAX
[I-max] camera to study and, perhaps, one day reduce this
I hope this will lead to reducing the threats to
planet's environmental damage. And you launched a TDRS
ow carth's
[TEE-dress] satellite which completes the satellite
environment
communications network that will allow us -- more effectively,
3
efficiently -- to relay data from all of our scientific
satellites to earth.
In short, you showed exactly where we are going, and why.
We are exploring the new horizons of this nation's technological
future. For, as Americans, we are driven, always, by a
restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students standing here with me. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras [FRAHS]. His
experiment studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andrew Fras show how America's future
will depend -- in space and on earth -- on our most precious
resource, our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space."
4
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
greatness of America. And we will forge even stronger links as
we reaffirm our commitment to the Shuttle program, as our science
missions open new horizons of knowledge, and as Space Station
Freedom symbolizes the promise of man.
As we do, we will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit
which throws open the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which
points us toward the stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well done. " Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
###
019666SS
Document No.
1948
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/22/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/23/89 10:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Thursday, March
23, 1989, with an info copy to my office. Sorry for the
short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
March 23, 1989
The NSC Staff has reviewed the proposed Presidential remarks on the
"Discovery" astronauts and concurs.
James W. Cicconi
Brent Scowcroft
Assistant to the President
CC James W. Cicconi
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1983
MAR
2?
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
Admiral Truly, Dr. Fletcher, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families of the Shuttle Discovery.
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of government's
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space. " And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
# # #
President's copy
(Smith/Blessey)
March 23, 1989
Draft Three, 2:30 p.m.
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
11:15 A.M.
Dr. Fletcher, Admiral Truly, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families.
First, let me take a moment to salute James Fletcher, whose
name has become almost synonymous with NASA's. As you know, Jim
will be retiring April 8. And I want to thank him for his
example and his leadership.
Jim has shown, as you have -- the commander and crew of
Discovery -- that America is a nation, and a family. And there
are moments when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of
remembering, and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add this personal note. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
2
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. You've shown that teamwork works.
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology.
By conducting Protein Crystal Growth experiments, you
furthered advancements in medical research. You used an IMAX
[I-max] camera to study and, perhaps, one day reduce this
planet's environmental damage. And you launched a TDRS
[TEE-dress] satellite which completes the satellite
communications network that will allow us -- more effectively,
3
efficiently -- to relay data from all of our scientific
satellites to earth.
In short, you showed exactly where we are going, and why.
We are exploring the new horizons of this nation's technological
future. For, as Americans, we are driven, always, by a
restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students standing here with me. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras [FRAHS]. His
experiment studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andrew Fras show how America's future
will depend -- in space and on earth -- on our most precious
resource, our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space."
4
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
greatness of America. And we will forge even stronger links as
we reaffirm our commitment to the Shuttle program, as our science
missions open new horizons of knowledge, and as Space Station
Freedom symbolizes the promise of man.
As we do, we will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit
which throws open the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which
points us toward the stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
# # #
March 23, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR JIM CICCONI
FROM;
DENISE SCHWARZ
OFFICE OF CABINET AFFAIRS
SUBJECT;
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS; DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
LOG #019666SS
We have reviewed the attached remarks and have on
addition on page 3.
Attachment
CC: Chriss Winston
019666SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/22/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
3/23/89
10:00 AM
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Thursday, March
23, 1989, with an info copy to my office. Sorry for the
short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
Admiral Truly, Dr. Fletcher, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families of the Shuttle Discovery.
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of government's
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space." And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
Please add the Sentence attached.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
# # #
Page 3 -
At
symbol, please add:
even stranger
And we will be forging those links tighter
and closer and stronger as the Shuttle program
V
martA
X
continues to pick up momentum, as our
science missions opens new horizons of
graces the leavens as a symbol of american greatness
knowledge, and as Space Station Freedom
takes final form in orbit above the Earth.
cools 1134
ACP .. BOCVAIE BC 110CR
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Jim --
Here is the draft of the
remarks tomorrow to the
astronauts. There are a
number of problems with the
speech; you may want to look
at this. We did not receive
this to staff until late
yesterday afternoon.
JG-
Talk - w/ work Chris & a this little what really thought the
needs not a bit you did and
why actually also,
mission why it's significant. small subtle plug
perhaps for our a budget the paint proposalvent jim
what is to make
come Curt See w me
(Smith)
Discovery Astronauts
March 20, 1989
March 24, 1989
Draft One
4
other for
Commander Coats and Crew, friends and families of the
Shuttle Discovery.
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes.
As Commander-In-Chief, I am specially proud of the way you
represented your branches of the Armed Services -- like
Georgetown's basketball team, you've shown that teamwork works.
also
And with only minor lamage to the Shuttle Discovery, I want to
safily backon eath
-2-
Smin
thank you for taking good care of government's assets
Come
to think of it: I hope the Congress follows your lead.
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success. And, yes, only you were serenaded by the
lilting voice of "Star Trek"'s Captain Kirk, beaming you home to
earth.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery -- of rising
to the occasion, and confronting our challenges -- is as
cas apple per
collective as American and as timeless as our history. It says
that to Americans, nothing is impossible. It speaks to our
arcom
capacity to dare, and to harness the skies.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology.
By conducting Protein Crystal Growth experiments, you
furthered advancements in medical research. You used an IMAX
[I-max] camera to study and, perhaps, one day reduce this
planet's environmental damage. And you launched a TDRS
-3-
[TEE-dress] satellite which completes the satellite
communications network that will allow us -- more effectively,
efficiently -- to relay data from all of our scientific
satellites to earth.
((You know, there's an old New England story about a man,
stuck in the mud with his car, who was asked by a passing
motorist whether he was really stuck. "Well, you could say I was
stuck," the fellow said, "if I was really going anywhere. "))
Well, my friends, the Shuttle Discovery the men of
Discovery yan showed exactly where we are going, and why. We are
exploring the new horizons of America's technological future.
For our posterity is upward and onward; it is driven, always, by
a restlessness to do better.
That is why I intend to double the National Science
Foundation budget; in particular, I want to develop engineering
and scientific research centers which link university,
government, and industry labs. We are increasing affordable
access to space through the National Aero-Space Plane program and
nine Space Shuttle flights by 1990. And NASA is moving ahead
with Space Station Freedom, planned for operation by the
mid-1990s.
These steps will push back the frontiers of science and
exploration. We will explore them, yes, and so will future
-4-
generations. For tomorrow's technological promise lies in the
children of today.
For evidence, I point to these students on my right and left
not that you're children, fellows, but you were when your
experiments began!
John Vellinger, a senior in Mechanical Engineering at
Purdue, was in 9th grade when he started work on an experiment,
using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in zero
gravity. Five years later, his first version perished in the
collegen
Challenger tragedy. But last week, his student experiment won
world-wide applause.
And so did the experiment of Andrew Fras, now in his second
year at Brown University's Medical School and studying to be an
orthopedic surgeon. Four years ago, Andrew had an experiment
which flew on the shuttle. And last week, a second of his
experiments flew on the Discovery studying microgravity's effect
on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend youth -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our kids. Yet today, the number of students who graduate from
high school with the skills to succeed in science- and math-based
study is too small to meet industry's needs. Worse, the NSF
predicts a shortage of 400,000 scientists by the year 2000.
-5-
To reverse that trend, I want Congress to create a
$500-million program to reward America's "merit schools" -- the
schools which improve the most. I want to create special
Presidential awards in every State. And I propose expanded use
of magnet schools -- giving parents and students the freedom of
choice.
I have proposed a program to spur "alternative
certification" -- allowing talented Americans from every field,
especially science and mathematics, to teach in America's
classrooms. And through a new program of National Science
Scholars, I want to give America's youth a special incentive to
excel in math and science. Like John and Andy, many of these
students will one day choosé careers based in new technology. We
must ensure they are prepared.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space." And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
-6-
will honor the men, and the spirit, of Discovery: The men who,
as today's pioneers, show how the individual matters; the spirit
which throws open the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which
points us toward the stars.
Thank you, may God bless you, and God bless America.
Dr.
James Bagian
Col. John Blaha
Col. James Buchli
Comm. Cap. Michael Coats
Cal. Robert Springs
adm. Truly
Dr. Fletcher
Rose Gadm
11:15-11:30
Coats - tach briefly
presentation
-
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 22, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER
RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Discovery Astronauts
The draft remarks for the Rose Garden ceremony for the
Discovery Astronauts appropriately focus on the future
and the investments that we must make in the future.
I do have several suggestions that I hope will be help-
ful where I think the draft might be strengthened:
1. There is nothing to be gained by taking a shot at
the Congress at the bottom of the first page by implying
that the Congress does not take good care of government's
assets. The sentence should simply be eliminated.
2. In the fourth full paragraph on page two the second
sentence "You showed exactly where we are going, and why,"
might also usefully be dropped. The paragraph reads well
without it. Including the sentence calls out for a good
deal more explanation than is provided.
3. There is no mention of Dr. James Fletcher, other
than in the salutation. Fletcher is probably more closely
identified with NASA in the American mind that anyone else.
He recently announced his retirement effective April 8.
This would be a wonderful opportunity for the President to
pay tribute to him. He did bring credibility and leadership
to a demoralized agency when he was brought back out of
retirement following the Challenger accident in January 1986.
4. There is also no mention of two significant missions
performed by the Discovery Astronauts:
The launching of the TEDRAS satellite; and
The operation of the IMAX camera.
This camera is used to photograph the Earth from space is con-
sidered highly useful in dealing with global environmental
problems.
5. You may wish to work in somewhere reference to the
fact that the President was a pilot, indeed the youngest Navy
pilot during World War II.
CC: James W. Cicconi
019666SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/22/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/23/89 10:00 AM
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Thursday, March
23, 1989, with an info copy to my office. Sorry for the
short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
MAP
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
Admiral Truly, Dr. Fletcher, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families of the Shuttle Discovery.
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of government's
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space." And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
###
How is one a 4 family 9 of the Shuttle ?
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
1989 MAR 22 PM 5: 11
Admiral Truly, Dr. Fletcher, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families of the Shuttle Discovery.
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of government's
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
This is pure Reagan. d don't think it's George Bush.
Coming afta Challenge this is pretty bad. d wasn't
the astionants fault that Challenge exploded. Agree
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
(expand on Mis quate, which is more appropos
of outer space." And It was that other noted public speaker, than Togi)
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
non sequiter!
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
What? How does this follow?
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
Amr
###
019666SS
MASTERI
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/22/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/23/89 10:00 AM
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Thursday, March
23, 1989, with an info copy to my office. Sorry for the
short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
5
in
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
Admiral Truly Dr. Fletcher, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families, of the Shuttle Discovery
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of the government'
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that , to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
the ass the GI experiment
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
to
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space." And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over.
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man. mount A
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 23, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATION
FROM:
PATRICIA MACK BRYAN PMB
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Discovery Astronauts
Pursuant to James Cicconi's staffing memorandum of March 22,
1989, Counsel's Office has reviewed the above-referenced
presidential remarks. We have no legal objection to those
proposed remarks.
Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.
CC: James Cicconi
ID #. 01966655 CU
WHITE HOUSE
CORRESPONDENCE TRACKING WORKSHEET
o . OUTGOING
H . INTERNAL
I - INCOMING
Date Correspondence
Received (YY/MM/DD)
/
/
Name of Correspondent:
James W. Ciccone
MI Mail Report
User Codes: (A)
(B)
(C)
Subject:
Presidential Remarks: Discovery Astronants
ROUTE TO:
ACTION
DISPOSITION
Tracking
Type
Completion
Action
Date
of
Date
Office/Agency
(Staff Name)
Code
YY/MM/DD
Response
Code
YY/MM/DD
Cuage
ORIGINATOR 49103,22
/
/
Cuat 04
Referral Note:
R 89,03,22
89,03,23
Referral Note:
10:00 Am
/
/
/
/
-
Referral Note:
/
/
/
/
Referral Note:
1
/
/
/
Referral Note:
ACTION CODES:
DISPOSITION CODES:
A Appropriate Action
I - Info Copy Only/No Action Necessary
A Answered
C Completed
C Comment/Recommendation
R - . Direct Reply w/Copy
B . Non-Special Referral
S Suspended
D Draft Response
S For Signature
F - Furnish Fact Sheet
X Interim Reply
to be used as Enclosure
FOR OUTGOING CORRESPONDENCE:
Type of Response = Initials of Signer
Code = "A"
Completion Date = Date of Outgoing
Comments: Please forward Comments directly
Chriss Winston Rm 122 X2930 by 10:00 am
Keep this worksheet attached to the original incoming letter.
on Thursday, March 23, w/an office lonfo to Cicconis
Send all routing updates to Central Reference (Room 75, OEOB).
Always return completed correspondence record to Central Files.
Refer questions about the correspondence tracking system to Central Reference, ext. 2590.
5/81
019666SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/22/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/23/89 10:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Thursday, March
23, 1989, with an info copy to my office. Sorry for the
short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1963
28
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
Admiral Truly, Dr. Fletcher, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families of the Shuttle Discovery.
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of government's
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space." And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
###
019666SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
39 MAR 22 P5 20
DATE:
3/22/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/23/89 10:00 AM
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Thursday, March
23, 1989, with an info copy to my office. Sorry for the
short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
Admiral Truly, Dr. Fletcher, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families of the Shuttle Discovery.
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of\government's the
5014
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
Paul
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
5044
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space." And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
# # #
019666SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/22/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/23/89 10:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Thursday, March
23, 1989, with an info copy to my office. Sorry for the
short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE: since the President x remarks are addressed to the astronauts,
perhaps you would consider naming them raiher than
admiral truly and Dr. I letcher. - pagel.
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
N
Admiral Truly, Dr. Fletcher Commander Coats and Crew,
insert
friends and families of the Shuttle Discovery.
names of
The crew a -
(singe
nements
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments are
addressed
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering, to them)
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of government's
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space." And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
###
019666SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
3/22/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3/23/89 10:00 AM
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
GRAHAM
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Thursday, March
23, 1989, with an info copy to my office. Sorry for the
short turnaround. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
oh
GBW
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
March 22, 1989
Draft Two
Space
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DISCOVERY ASTRONAUTS
ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 1989
Admiral Truly, Dr. Fletcher, Commander Coats and Crew,
friends and families of the Shuttle Discovery.
America is a nation, and a family. And there are moments
when we celebrate, as a family would: moments of remembering,
and of pride.
Last Saturday, nearly half a million people welcomed your
return to Edwards Air Force Base. They were there to pay
America's respects to your courage and your enterprise.
Today, we, too, salute the story you have written. And I
want to add two personal notes. As Commander-In-Chief, I am
especially proud of the way you represented your branches of the
Armed Services. And with the Shuttle Discovery safely back on
earth, I want to thank you for taking good care of government's
assets
Come to think of it: I hope the Congress follows
your lead.
2
In a sense, your triumph is personal. After all, it's you
who braved the elements and performed the tasks which made your
mission a success.
But in a larger sense, the story of Discovery is as American
as Opening Day and as timeless as our history. It says that to
Americans, nothing lies beyond our reach. It speaks to our
capacity to dare, and to dream the impossible.
My friends, this quality has graced every great moment of
the American Story. And by enriching our lives, and our
children's lives, it can shape America's dreams of the
twenty-first century.
On the flight of Discovery, you showed, anew, America's
genius in science and technology. You showed exactly where we
are going, and why. We are exploring the new horizons of this
nation's technological future. For, as Americans, we are driven,
always, by a restlessness to do better.
This desire links the generations, and has pushed back the
frontiers of research and exploration. For evidence, I point to
the two students on my left and right. They show how tomorrow's
technological promise lies in the youth of today.
John Vellinger was in 9th grade when he started work on an
experiment, using chickens, to study how fast tissues develop in
3
zero gravity. Last week, his experiment flew on the Shuttle
Discovery. And so did the work of Andrew Fras. His experiment
studied microgravity's effect on the healing of bones.
John Vellinger and Andy Fras show how America's future will
depend -- in space, on earth -- on our most precious resource,
our youth.
You know, Adlai Stevenson once spoke of "the awful majesty
of outer space." And it was that other noted public speaker,
Yogi Berra, who observed, "It's never over 'til it's over."
My friends, this voyage of the Shuttle Discovery is over.
But its spirit lives, linking the majesty of outer space with the
promise of man.
By investing in our children and, thus, America's
technology, we can make that promise a reality. And as we do, we
will honor the spirit of Discovery: The spirit which throws open
the possibilities of tomorrow -- and which points us toward the
stars.
Men, your mission is accomplished, and your nation says,
"Well-done." Thank you, God bless you, and God bless America.
###