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Swearing-in of Secretary Derwinski, 3/15/89
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6
1
6
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 10, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
PATRICIA MACK BRYAN PMB
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Derwinski Swearing-in
Pursuant to your staffing memorandum of March 10, 1989, Counsel's
Office has reviewed the above-referenced draft remarks. We have
no legal objection to the contents of these remarks.
CC: James W. Cicconi
1989 MAR FII 4: 05
(Davis/Simon)
March 9, 3:30 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
MARCH 15, 1989
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony. (Bill Mauldin -- "Willie and Joe" cartoons?)
((Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike.) )
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect as a
bronzed giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
-2-
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
There have been three calls to arms in the living memory of
most Americans or their parents. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just
across the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in
an Associated Press photograph, is now cast for the ages in
bronze. No one who lived through that war will ever forget that
picture, or what it meant to us
certainly not this former
pilot.
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks ago I saw a living monument to
these brave Americans -- the nation of South Korea itself, a new-
born democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Memorial; a somber salute to
those who fell, and all who answered the call to duty. May we
never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
-3-
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone. But Lincoln himself
acknowledged that speeches and stone are inadequate repayment for
those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
But that doesn't free us of obligation. If you go to the
front enterance of the Veteran's Affairs Department, you will see
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a plate of steel,
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
-4-
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
-5-
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
This new department must match vast resources to vast needs.
Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a potential V.A.
beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans and 53 million
dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
-6-
The Department of Veterans Affairs will provide compensation
to service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income veterans
and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
families, and operates the fifth largest insurance industry in
America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes of every
service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost youth that can
only be measured in centuries.
-7-
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
#
#
#
Davis/Simon
March 8, 5:30 p.m.
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
2:15 P.M., MARCH 15, 1989
IWO IMA MONUMENT SOUTHLAWN
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony. (Bill Mauldin -- "Willie and Joe" cartoons?)
coupliment you sint
I want PO to compliment you on your fine soit.
(Ed, you should know that if you had worn your gold-and-
black checkered jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White
House camera crew would have gone on strike.)
Almost A stonE's TAROW away
From where we are standing, we can see most of the landmarks
(gity ARE less than A MILE Away
of this town. Across the river, Abraham Lincoln reposes
majestically in his chair of stone. Thomas Jefferson commands
our respect as a bronzed giant underneath a dome of marble. And
the Washington Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall
-- much as our first President dominated his time.
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
monther & 10cal
-2-
acurs the mm
There have been three calls to arms in the living memory of
A+ the IwoJimA Mam
pringlon
most Americans or their parents. Behind me, a fleeting moment of
victory, first captured in an Associated Press photograph, is now
cast for the ages in bronze. No one who lived through that war
will ever forget that picture, or what it meant to us
certainly not this former pilot. of an Avenger torpedo bomber.
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks ago I saw the living best monument to
these brave Americans there could possibly be -- the nation of
AIDED
South Korea itself, a new-born democracy rescued by American
sacrifice, protected by American strength.
TO OUR
Rioht simple lines and
Across the river just below the horizon, are the chiseled
names of the Vietnam Memorial; a somber salute to those who fell,
and all who answered the call to duty. May we never cease to
honor them, in name and deed.
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier in the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
-3-
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone. But Lincoln himself
acknowledged that speeches and stone are inadequate repayment for
those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
But that doesn't free us of obligation. If you go to the
front enterance of the Veteran's Affairs Department, you will see
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, etched in stone, calling on
us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his
widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table
right hand side of the President of the United States of America
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
-4-
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
WI th
Representatives is still a second home inhabited by many friends.
No former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
the
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's cheerful handling
of a heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands
of veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
-5-
This new department must match vast resources to vast needs.
Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a potential V.A.
beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans and 53 million
dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
The Department of Veterans Affairs will provide compensation
to service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income veterans
and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
families, and operates the fifth largest insurance industry in
America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
-6-
It is only appropriate, given this setting, to note one
other task assigned to the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend
awwer
and care for 112 national cemeteries across America. There is no
power or glamour in such a job. But there is caring and respect
-- for those who are gone, and for those who grieve.
Behind us is one such garden of stone, Arlington National
Cemetery the one national cemetery under the care of the U.S.
In these "GARDENS of stone
Army
Here sleep the heroes of every service, Marine, soldier,
sailor, airman; lost youth that can only be measured in
centuries.
]
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
will
need
diplomacy so wise, that we need never again to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
-7-
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
March 15, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT SWEARING-IN CEREMONY OF
SECRETARY OF VETERAN AFFAIRS EDWARD DERWINSKI
The South Lawn
1:00 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. Mr. Vice President and
members of the President's Cabinet that are here, distinguished
members of the Senate and the House, and service secretaries and I
see at least one member of the Joint Chiefs, General Vuono there, and
distinguished guests over here, including Bill Mauldin. I'm just
delighted to be here to salute Ed Derwinski, be with his family,
Bonnie, Maureen, and Michael. I heard Maureen and Michael -- I
thought maybe President Reagan was back. (Laughter.) But, no, this
is the Derwinski clan.
And, Ed, I want to thank you for not wearing that gold
and black-checkered jacket with that tomato-red beret. (Laughter.)
I'm reliably informed that the White House camera crew would have
gone on instant strike. We don't need another strike. (Laughter.)
From where we're standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. That's one of the beautiful
things that Barbara and I have rediscovered, but discovered
principally from living in the quarters above here. Just to the west
of us, Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect -- a bronze
giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington Monument rises
above the level of the surface of the Mall, much as our first
President dominated his time.
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build
these ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of men
and women who have been ready throughout the history of our nation to
defend those principles.
There have been four calls to arms in the living memory
of most Americans or their parents. From the South Lawn of the White
House, one can see a flaming sword, a tribute to the courage of the
soldiers of the Army's 2nd Division who fought so bravely in World
War I. At the Iwo Jima Memorial just across the river, a fleeting
moment of victory, first captured in an Associated Press photograph,
is now cast for the ages in bronze. No one who lived through that
war will ever forget that picture or what it meant to us.
- 2 -
carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an antiterrorist unit, waiting for a
call that we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
Battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone in the Lincoln Memorial.
But Lincoln himself acknowledged that speeches and statuary are
inadequate -- they're inadequate repayment for those who made the
ultimate sacrifice. And our obligation is also for the living.
If you go to the front entrance of the Veterans Affairs
Department, you'll see another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a
plate of steel, calling on us -- here's the quote -- "to care for him
who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the Veterans
Administration. I consider the new Department to have a vital
mission. In fact, it is so vital that there's only one place for the
veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the table with the
President of the United States of America. (Applause.)
And as the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed
Derwinski will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the Legislative and the
Executive Branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston, Texas. Ed, a Congressman from Illinois
then, was already a veteran of some tough congressional battles. And
I know that for Ed, the House of Representatives is still a second
home with many, many friends. No former colleagues of Ed can ever
forget his unfailing good humor and his concern for people. Nor will
veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a heavy burden of
casework, cutting red tape so that thousands of veterans could
receive their pensions, medical benefits, deserved military honors.
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress; conducted
special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland, the Pacific
nations; acted as a senior official for refugee policy and programs;
and prevented the diversion of the sensitive technology that belongs
to the United States to unfriendly nations.
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the finesse of
a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it means to start
his government career as a private in the United States Army. This
is a unique combination of experience and skills. And make no
mistake, the job, this new job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
backgrounds and talents.
This new Department must manage its vast resources to
meet vast needs. Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a
potential VA beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans and
53 million dependents and survivors. Ed will oversee a Department
with almost a quarter of a million employees -- the second largest
civilian task force in the government -- administrating a budget of
- 3 -
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112 national
cemeteries across America. There's no power, no glamour in such a
job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who are gone and
for those who grieve. In those "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes
-- men and women of every service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman --
lost youth that can only be measured in centuries. A president could
have no more poignant a reminder that he is charged with a great
trust.
It is my duty, as the Commander-In-Chief, to see to it
that our Armed Forces are so strong and our diplomacy so wise that we
will never again need to erect another monument to the casualties of
war. (Applause.)
A free America in a world at peace. Together we have
achieved that goal. Together we can preserve it. And if we do, then
surely that peace will be the truest monument to our veterans.
Ed, congratulations. Thanks for all that you have
already done. And we've got a big job ahead. And I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
Thank you all. And God bless the United States of
America. (Applause.)
END
1:36 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
3/13/89
(Davis/Simon)
March 10, 1989
7:30 p.m.
OK
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 1989
&
3-13
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony.
( (Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike. ))
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect: a
bronze giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
There have been four calls to arms in the living memory of
most Americans or their parents. From the South Lawn of the
where??
77
White House, one can see a flaming sword, a tribute to the
2
courage of the soldiers of the Army's 2nd Division, who fought so
bravely in World War One. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just across
the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in an
Associated Press photograph, is now cast for the ages in bronze.
No one who lived through that war will ever forget that picture,
or what it meant to us
certainly not this former pilot.
]
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks ago I saw a living monument to
these brave Americans -- the Republic of Korea itself, a new-born
democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial; a somber
salute to those who fell, and to all who answered the call to
duty. May we never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone in the Lincoln
Memorial. But Lincoln himself acknowledged that speeches and
3
statuary are inadequate repayment for those who made the ultimate
sacrifice.
Our obligation is also to the living. If you go to the
front entrance of the Veterans Affairs Department, you will see
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a plate of steel,
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston, And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
was already a Congressmen a veteran of some tough congressional battleo.
Ed, from Illinois,
4
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
This new department must manage its vast resources to meet
vast needs. Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a
potential V.A. beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans
and 53 million dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
The Department of Veterans Affairs provides compensation to
service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income, disabled
veterans and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
5
families, and operates the fifth largest life insurance program
in America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes -- men and
women -- of every service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost
youth that can only be measured in centuries.
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
6
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
# # #
ED DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 1989
GOOD AFTERNOON, ED, BONNIE, MAUREEN AND MICHAEL.
GOOD TO SEE YOU TONY.
- 2 -
((ED, I WANT TO COMPLIMENT YOU ON YOUR FINE
SUIT. You SHOULD KNOW THAT IF YOU HAD WORN YOUR GOLD-
AND-BLACK CHECKERED JACKET WITH YOUR TOMATO RED BERET -
- THE WHITE HOUSE CAMERA CREW WOULD HAVE GONE ON
STRIKE.))
FROM WHERE WE ARE STANDING, MOST OF THE LANDMARKS
OF THIS TOWN ARE ALMOST A STONE'S THROW AWAY. JUST TO
THE WEST OF US, ABRAHAM LINCOLN REPOSES MAJESTICALLY IN
HIS CHAIR OF STONE.
- 3 -
STRAIGHT AHEAD OF US, THOMAS JEFFERSON COMMANDS OUR
RESPECT: A BRONZE GIANT UNDERNEATH A DOME OF MARBLE.
AND THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT RISES ABOVE THE LEVEL
SURFACE OF THE MALL -- MUCH AS OUR FIRST PRESIDENT
DOMINATED HIS TIME.
WE GLORIFY OUR GREATEST LEADERS. BUT WE DO NOT
BUILD THESE IVORY TEMPLES TO HONOR THEM ALONE.
- 4 -
WE HONOR THE ENDURING PRINCIPLES FOR WHICH THEY STOOD.
AND WE HONOR THE MILLIONS OF MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE
BEEN READY THROUGHOUT THE HISTORY OF OUR NATION TO
DEFEND THOSE PRINCIPLES.
THERE HAVE BEEN FOUR CALLS TO ARMS IN THE LIVING
MEMORY OF MOST AMERICANS OR THEIR PARENTS.
- 5 -
FROM THE SOUTH LAWN OF THE WHITE HOUSE, ONE CAN SEE A
FLAMING SWORD, A TRIBUTE TO THE COURAGE OF THE SOLDIERS
OF THE ARMY'S 2ND DIVISION, WHO FOUGHT so BRAVELY IN
WORLD WAR ONE. AT THE Iwo JIMA MEMORIAL, JUST ACROSS
THE RIVER, A FLEETING MOMENT OF VICTORY, FIRST CAPTURED
IN AN ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOGRAPH, IS NOW CAST FOR THE
AGES IN BRONZE. No ONE WHO LIVED THROUGH THAT WAR WILL
EVER FORGET THAT PICTURE, OR WHAT IT MEANT TO US
...
(CERTAINLY NOT THIS FORMER PILOT.))
- 6 -
WE HAVE YET TO HONOR THE VETERANS OF THE KOREAN WAR
IN SUCH A WAY, ALTHOUGH I'M GLAD TO SEE THAT PLANNING
FOR A MEMORIAL IS MOVING FORWARD. BUT THREE WEEKS AGO
I SAW A LIVING MONUMENT TO THESE BRAVE AMERICANS -- THE
REPUBLIC OF KOREA ITSELF, A NEW-BORN DEMOCRACY AIDED BY
AMERICAN SACRIFICE, PROTECTED BY AMERICAN STRENGTH.
- 7 -
JUST BELOW THE HORIZON, TO OUR RIGHT, ARE THE
SIMPLE LINES AND CHISELED NAMES OF THE VIETNAM VETERANS
MEMORIAL; A SOMBER SALUTE TO THOSE WHO FELL, AND TO ALL
WHO ANSWERED THE CALL TO DUTY. MAY WE NEVER CEASE TO
HONOR THEM, IN NAME AND DEED.
- 8 -
FINALLY, LET US NEVER FORGET THOSE MEN AND WOMEN IN
THE ARMED FORCES WHO, EVEN IN PEACETIME, RISK THEIR
LIVES IN A HARDSHIP POST OR A DANGEROUS ASSIGNMENT,
WHETHER IT'S STANDING ON THE DECK OF A CARRIER OFF THE
PERSIAN GULF, OR AN ANTI-TERRORIST UNIT, WAITING FOR A
CALL WE HOPE NEVER COMES.
THE MEANING OF A MONUMENT, AS LINCOLN SAID OF THE
BATTLEFIELD AT GETTYSBURG, IS "FAR ABOVE OUR POOR POWER
TO ADD OR DETRACT."
- 9 -
THESE WORDS ARE CARVED IN STONE IN THE LINCOLN
MEMORIAL. BUT LINCOLN HIMSELF ACKNOWLEDGED THAT
SPEECHES AND STATUARY ARE INADEQUATE REPAYMENT FOR
THOSE WHO MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE.
OUR OBLIGATION IS ALSO TO THE LIVING.
- 10 -
IF YOU GO TO THE FRONT ENTRANCE OF THE VETERANS AFFAIRS
DEPARTMENT, YOU WILL SEE ANOTHER QUOTE FROM ABRAHAM
LINCOLN, CAST IN A PLATE OF STEEL, CALLING ON US: "To
CARE FOR HIM WHO SHALL HAVE BORNE THE BATTLE AND FOR
HIS WIDOW, AND HIS ORPHAN."
THIS IS THE MISSION OF THE NEW DEPARTMENT OF
VETERANS AFFAIRS, WHICH TODAY OFFICIALLY ASSUMES THE
DUTIES OF THE VETERANS ADMINISTRATION. I CONSIDER THE
NEW DEPARTMENT TO HAVE A VITAL MISSION.
- 11 -
IN FACT, IT IS so VITAL, THAT THERE IS ONLY ONE PLACE
FOR THE VETERANS OF AMERICA -- IN THE CABINET ROOM, AT
THE TABLE WITH THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA
As THE FIRST SECRETARY OF THIS NEW DEPARTMENT, ED
DERWINSKI WILL SET A PRECEDENT. HE IS UNIQUELY SUITED
FOR THIS ROLE, HAVING SERVED WITH DISTINCTION IN BOTH
THE LEGISLATIVE AND THE EXECUTIVE BRANCHES OF
GOVERNMENT.
- 12 -
MY FRIENDSHIP WITH ED GOES BACK TO MY DAYS AS A
FRESHMAN CONGRESSMAN FROM HOUSTON. ED, A CONGRESSMAN
FROM ILLINOIS, WAS ALREADY A VETERAN OF SOME TOUGH
CONGRESSIONAL BATTLES. AND I KNOW THAT FOR ED, THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IS STILL A SECOND HOME WITH
MANY FRIENDS. No FORMER COLLEAGUE OF ED's CAN FORGET
HIS UNFAILING GOOD HUMOR.
- 13 -
NOR WILL VETERANS FORGET HIS GOOD WORK -- ED's HANDLING
OF A HEAVY BURDEN OF CASEWORK, CUTTING RED-TAPE so THAT
THOUSANDS OF VETERANS COULD RECEIVE THEIR PENSIONS,
MEDICAL BENEFITS AND MILITARY HONORS.
AT THE STATE DEPARTMENT, ED PACKED THE
ACHIEVEMENTS OF A WHOLE CAREER INTO A FEW YEARS.
- 14 -
HE WORKED WITH CONGRESS, CONDUCTED SPECIAL
INTERNATIONAL NEGOTIATIONS WITH CANADA, ICELAND AND
PACIFIC NATIONS, ACTED AS A SENIOR OFFICIAL FOR REFUGEE
POLICY AND PROGRAMS, AND PREVENTED THE DIVERSION OF
SENSITIVE U.S. TECHNOLOGY TO UNFRIENDLY NATIONS.
- 15 -
IN SHORT, ED DERWINSKI HAS THE SKILL OF A SEASONED
LEGISLATOR, THE PATIENCE OF A PRACTICED ADMINISTRATOR,
THE FINESSE OF A DIPLOMAT -- AND THE HEART OF A MAN WHO
KNOWS WHAT IT MEANS TO START HIS GOVERNMENT CAREER AS A
PRIVATE IN THE U.S. ARMY.
THIS IS A UNIQUE COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND
SKILLS. AND MAKE NO MISTAKE, THE JOB REQUIRES SOMEONE
WITH ED DERWINSKI'S BACKGROUND AND TALENTS.
- 16 -
THIS NEW DEPARTMENT MUST MANAGE ITS VAST RESOURCES
TO MEET VAST NEEDS. ALMOST ONE OUT OF EVERY THREE U.S.
CITIZENS IS A POTENTIAL V.A. BENEFICIARY. COUNT AMONG
THEM 27 MILLION VETERANS AND 53 MILLION DEPENDENTS AND
SURVIVORS.
ED WILL OVERSEE A DEPARTMENT WITH ALMOST A QUARTER
OF A MILLION EMPLOYEES -- THE SECOND LARGEST CIVILIAN
TASK FORCE IN THE GOVERNMENT -- ADMINISTERING A BUDGET
OF MORE THAN $29 BILLION.
- 17 -
THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS PROVIDES
COMPENSATION TO SERVICE-DISABLED VETERANS, PENSIONS FOR
LOW-INCOME, DISABLED VETERANS AND SURVIVORS,
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE AND VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION.
IT GUARANTEES THE HOME LOANS FOR 12 MILLION FAMILIES,
AND OPERATES THE FIFTH LARGEST LIFE INSURANCE PROGRAM
IN AMERICA.
- 18 -
IT ALSO RUNS THE NATION'S LARGEST MEDICAL SYSTEM,
WITH 172 HOSPITALS, AND HUNDREDS OF OUTPATIENT CLINICS
AND NURSING HOMES.
BUT THE BEST RESOURCE OF THE NEW DEPARTMENT IS ITS
PEOPLE --MEN AND WOMEN WHO LIVE UP TO THE HIGHEST IDEAL
OF PUBLIC SERVICE EVERY DAY. THEY HAVE MY SINCEREST
GRATITUDE FOR A JOB WELL DONE.
- 19 -
IT IS ONLY APPROPRIATE TO NOTE ONE OTHER TASK
ASSIGNED TO THE VETERANS AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT -- TO TEND
AND CARE FOR 112 NATIONAL CEMETERIES ACROSS AMERICA.
THERE IS NO POWER OR GLAMOUR IN SUCH A JOB. BUT THERE
IS CARING AND RESPECT -- FOR THOSE WHO ARE GONE, AND
FOR THOSE WHO GRIEVE.
- 20 -
IN THESE "GARDENS OF STONE" SLEEP THE HEROES -- MEN
AND WOMEN -- OF EVERY SERVICE, MARINE, SOLDIER, SAILOR,
AIRMAN; LOST YOUTH THAT CAN ONLY BE MEASURED IN
CENTURIES.
A PRESIDENT COULD HAVE NO MORE POIGNANT A REMINDER
THAT HE IS CHARGED WITH A GREAT TRUST.
- 21 -
IT IS MY DUTY, AS COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, TO SEE TO IT THAT
OUR ARMED FORCES ARE so STRONG, AND OUR DIPLOMACY so
WISE, THAT WE WILL NEVER AGAIN NEED TO ERECT ANOTHER
MONUMENT TO THE CASUALTIES OF WAR.
A FREE AMERICA IN A WORLD AT PEACE. TOGETHER, WE
HAVE ACHIEVED THAT GOAL. TOGETHER, WE CAN PRESERVE IT.
AND IF WE DO, THEN SURELY THAT PEACE WILL BE THE TRUEST
MONUMENT TO OUR VETERANS
- 22 -
ED, CONGRATULATIONS, AND THANKS FOR ALL THAT YOU
HAVE ALREADY DONE. WE'VE GOT A BIG JOB AHEAD. I LOOK
FORWARD TO WORKING CLOSELY WITH YOU IN THE YEARS TO
COME.
###
015333SS
MASTER I
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
3/9/89
3/10/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by noon, Friday, March 10, 1989, with an info copy to my office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1989 MAR -9 Fill 4: 05
(Davis/Simon)
March 9, 3:30 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
MARCH 15, 1989
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony. (Bill Mauldin -- "Willie and Joe" cartoons?)
((Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike.))
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
a
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect;as
a
bronzed giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
-2-
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
four
There have been three calls to arms in the living memory of
(insert, over)
most Americans or their parents. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just
across the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in
an Associated Press photograph, is now cast for the ages. in
bronze. No one who lived through that war will ever forget that
picture, or what it meant to us
certainly not this former
pilot.
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks Republic ago I saw a living monument to (Scow)
these brave Americans -- the nation of South Korea itself, a new-
born democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Veteranis Memorial; a somber salute to
those who fell, and all who answered the call to duty. May we
never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
From the Douth hown of the White House,
one can see the missiong gleaming trilute
to the Caurage of the armys 2nd Division
which fought so bravely in world Wer I,
-3-
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone. But Lincoln himself
acknowledged that speeches and Stature stone are inadequate repayment for
those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
(Pink)
Our obligation is also to the living.
But that doesn't free us of obligation. If you go to the
front enterance of the Veteran S Affairs Department, you will see
aluminum
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a plate of steel,
?
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
-4-
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
-5-
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
This new department must match vast resources to vast needs.
Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a potential V.A.
beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans and 53 million
dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
-6-
The Department of Veterans Affairs will provides compensation
to service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income veterans
and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
(vets)
)
families, and operates the fifth largest Vife insurance industry program in
America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
menored
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes of every
service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost youth that can
only be measured in centuries.
-7-
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
#
#
#
MiASTERII
015333SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
3/13/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
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
(Davis/Simon)
March 1/0% 1989
7:30 p.m.
MAR
10
55
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 1989
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony.
((Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike. ))
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect: a
bronze giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
There have been four calls to arms in the living memory of
most Americans or their parents. From the South Lawn of the
White House, one can see a flaming sword, a tribute to the
2
courage of the soldiers of the Army's 2nd Division, who fought so
bravely in World War One. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just across
the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in an
Associated Press photograph, is now cast for the ages in bronze.
No one who lived through that war will ever forget that picture,
or what it meant to us
certainly not this former pilot.
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks ago I saw a living monument to
these brave Americans -- the Republic of Korea itself, a new-born
democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial; a somber
salute to those who fell, and to all who answered the call to
duty. May we never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract. " These words are carved in stone in the Lincoln
Memorial. But Lincoln himself acknowledged that speeches and
3
statuary are inadequate repayment for those who made the ultimate
sacrifice.
Our obligation is also to the living. If you go to the
front entrance of the Veterans Affairs Department, you will see
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a plate of steel,
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
4
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
This new department must manage its vast resources to meet
vast needs. Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a
potential V.A. beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans
and 53 million dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
The Department of Veterans Affairs provides compensation to
service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income, disabled
veterans and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
5
families, and operates the fifth largest life insurance program
in America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes -- men and
women -- of every service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost
youth that can only be measured in centuries.
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
6
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
# # #
DAVIS
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
March 15, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT SWEARING-IN CEREMONY OF
SECRETARY OF VETERAN AFFAIRS EDWARD DERWINSKI
The South Lawn
1:00 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. Mr. Vice President and
members of the President's Cabinet that are here, distinguished
members of the Senate and the House, and service secretaries and I
see at least one member of the Joint Chiefs, General Vuono there, and
distinguished guests over here, including Bill Mauldin. I'm just
delighted to be here to salute Ed Derwinski, be with his family,
Bonnie, Maureen, and Michael. I heard Maureen and Michael -- I
thought maybe President Reagan was back. (Laughter.) But, no, this
is the Derwinski clan.
And, Ed, I want to thank you for not wearing that gold
and black-checkered jacket with that tomato-red beret. (Laughter.)
I'm reliably informed that the White House camera crew would have
gone on instant strike. We don't need another strike. (Laughter.)
From where we're standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. That's one of the beautiful
things that Barbara and I have rediscovered, but discovered
principally from living in the quarters above here. Just to the west
of us, Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect -- a bronze
giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington Monument rises
above the level of the surface of the Mall, much as our first
President dominated his time.
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build
these ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of men
and women who have been ready throughout the history of our nation to
defend those principles.
There have been four calls to arms in the living memory
of most Americans or their parents. From the South Lawn of the White
House, one can see a flaming sword, a tribute to the courage of the
soldiers of the Army's 2nd Division who fought so bravely in World
War I. At the Iwo Jima Memorial just across the river, a fleeting
moment of victory, first captured in an Associated Press photograph,
is now cast for the ages in bronze. No one who lived through that
war will ever forget that picture or what it meant to us.
- 2 -
carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an antiterrorist unit, waiting for a
call that we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
Battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone in the Lincoln Memorial.
But Lincoln himself acknowledged that speeches and statuary are
inadequate -- they're inadequate repayment for those who made the
ultimate sacrifice. And our obligation is also for the living.
If you go to the front entrance of the Veterans Affairs
Department, you'll see another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a
plate of steel, calling on us -- here's the quote -- "to care for him
who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the Veterans
Administration. I consider the new Department to have a vital
mission. In fact, it is so vital that there's only one place for the
veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the table with the
President of the United States of America. (Applause.)
And as the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed
Derwinski will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the Legislative and the
Executive Branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston, Texas. Ed, a Congressman from Illinois
then, was already a veteran of some tough congressional battles. And
I know that for Ed, the House of Representatives is still a second
home with many, many friends. No former colleagues of Ed can ever
forget his unfailing good humor and his concern for people. Nor will
veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a heavy burden of
casework, cutting red tape so that thousands of veterans could
receive their pensions, medical benefits, deserved military honors.
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress; conducted
special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland, the Pacific
nations; acted as a senior official for refugee policy and programs;
and prevented the diversion of the sensitive technology that belongs
to the United States to unfriendly nations.
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the finesse of
a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it means to start
his government career as a private in the United States Army. This
is a unique combination of experience and skills. And make no
mistake, the job, this new job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
backgrounds and talents.
This new Department must manage its vast resources to
meet vast needs. Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a
potential VA beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans and
53 million dependents and survivors. Ed will oversee a Department
with almost a quarter of a million employees -- the second largest
civilian task force in the government -- administrating a budget of
- 3 -
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112 national
cemeteries across America. There's no power, no glamour in such a
job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who are gone and
for those who grieve. In those "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes
-- men and women of every service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman --
lost youth that can only be measured in centuries. A president could
have no more poignant a reminder that he is charged with a great
trust.
It is my duty, as the Commander-In-Chief, to see to it
that our Armed Forces are so strong and our diplomacy so wise that we
will never again need to erect another monument to the casualties of
war. (Applause.)
A free America in a world at peace. Together we have
achieved that goal. Together we can preserve it. And if we do, then
surely that peace will be the truest monument to our veterans.
Ed, congratulations. Thanks for all that you have
already done. And we've got a big job ahead. And I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
Thank you all. And God bless the United States of
America. (Applause.)
END
1:36 P.M. EST
TO PRESIDENT 10
(Davis/Simon)
March 10, 1989
7:30 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 1989
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony.
((Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike.) )
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect: a
bronze giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
There have been four calls to arms in the living memory of
most Americans or their parents. From the South Lawn of the
White House, one can see a flaming sword, a tribute to the
2
courage of the soldiers of the Army's 2nd Division, who fought so
bravely in World War One. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just across
the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in an
Associated Press photograph, is now cast for the ages in bronze.
No one who lived through that war will ever forget that picture,
or what it meant to us
certainly not this former pilot.
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks ago I saw a living monument to
these brave Americans -- the Republic of Korea itself, a new-born
democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial; a somber
salute to those who fell, and to all who answered the call to
duty. May we never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone in the Lincoln
Memorial. But Lincoln himself acknowledged that speeches and
3
statuary are inadequate repayment for those who made the ultimate
sacrifice.
Our obligation is also to the living. If you go to the
front entrance of the Veterans Affairs Department, you will see
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a plate of steel,
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
4
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
This new department must manage its vast resources to meet
vast needs. Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a
potential V.A. beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans
and 53 million dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
The Department of Veterans Affairs provides compensation to
service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income, disabled
veterans and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
5
families, and operates the fifth largest life insurance program
in America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes -- men and
women -- of every service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost
youth that can only be measured in centuries.
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
6
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 10, 1989
Memorandum to Chriss Winston
From:
James P. Pinkerton RRe/SP
Roger B. Porter
Re:
Comments on Junior Achievement, B'nai B'rith,
Derwinski, Attorneys General, Insurance Agents
drafts
A general comment on the drafts: If we are serious about
our message of "Building a Better America," then we should state
our message. We can't count on anyone else to carry our line if
we won't do it ourselves. Ideally, all these speeches should
include the phrase "Building A Better America.'
Junior Achievement
Overall, a good speech. But the pitch for the President's
program doesn't kick in until p.7. Again, there's no effort to
ask these people -- renowned for their pep and enthusiasm -- for
their help. We need a more imperative voice. The phrase
"Building A Better America" should be included since it's our
overall theme.
p.2, para. 4: Since this is the paragraph on voluntarism, we
suggest including a specific reference to YES.
p.3, para. 1: "In your hands, economics is anything but as some
call 'the dismal science. Change to: "In your creative
hands, economics is anything but the 'dismal science' that some
have called it."
p.8, para. 4: "...a system that gives ingenuity free reign" --
"reign" should be "rein." Obviously nobody in the audience will
notice, but a reader will.
B'nai B'rith
p.2, para. 4: We must be careful about over-using the words
"tolerance" and "intolerance." " We used the phrase "intolerance"
in the DEA speech and we have spoken repeatedly of "Zero
Tolerance. We're tying many meanings and inferences around
"tolerance."
-2-
When you overload a word with too many messages you
sometimes wind up in trouble, as in the President's fumble over
the phrase "anti-bigotry, anti-racism, and anti-semitism" in the
campaign. We would draw the line right here and turn this
negative-sounding sentence into a positive, e.g. "This nation
must stand for tolerance, pluralism, and a healthy respect for
the rights of all minorities."
Derwinski
p.1, para. 3: Change "bronzed giant,' which sounds like a cross
between Nietzsche and George Hamilton, to "Jefferson commands our
respect: a bronze giant
"
p.2, para. 2: is now cast for the ages in bronze." We'd
delete "in bronze" at the end of this sentence if we use "bronze
giant" above.
p.2, para. 4: "a somber salute to those who fell, and all who
answered the call to duty." We would add "to" after the "and."
The sentence should now read "and to all who answered the
call
"
P. 3, para. 2: "speeches and stone" sounds somewhat cold. We
suggest a change to "speeches and statuary," which sounds more
generous.
p.3, para. 3: This graf is a non-sequitur from the previous
graf: we go from talking about how speeches and stone/statuary
are an inadequate repayment, to this paragraph which starts "But
that doesn't free us of obligation."
You can't be freed of an obligation by an inadequate
repayment. As we move from talking about past debts to current
concerns we need a sentence that tracks the logic of what we're
saying. I'd change to: "Our obligation is also to the living."
In the second sentence of this graf, the word "entrance" is
misspelled.
p.7, para. 1: " We will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war. " Strictly speaking, we don't
just erect monuments to the casualties of war.
We would change to " erect another monument to the men and
women who protect us and uphold our liberties." We need to
demonstrate some sensitivity to the current composition of the
armed forces. Note, for example, that the previous page uses
the term "airman." This is fine, in view of the demographics of
the armies of yesterday. But we need to demonstrate our
understanding that times have changed. Thus, our preference for
using "men and women" here.
-3-
Attorneys General
The President needs to throw a bipartisan bear-hug around
these law enforcers based on a common commitment to a stern, no-
nonsense struggle against drug abuse and environmental
degradation. Thus, a phrase like "kindred spirits" in the third
line, and a conclusion like "Let me now turn this party [emphasis
added] over to Bill Reilly" evinces a lackadaisical tone
unbefitting a President who is dead serious about winning the war
on drugs.
p.1, para. 2: "Kindred spirits:" We prefer "fellow warriors"
or "fellow soldiers" or something tougher and less convivial than
"kindred spirits" in a speech on drugs and cleaning up the
environment.
p.2, para. 4: Change "This government will" to the more
emphatic "I will."
p.3, para. 1: Change "Bill Reilly will give you his thinking on
the environment" to "Bill Reilly will outline in detail our
agenda on the environment." If we agree on the need for a
more martial overall tone, then we should consider a word like
"strategy" in place of "agenda."
Similarly, in the following sentence of that paragraph, we'd
change "You will certainly find him
to be an outstanding ally"
to "You will certainly find him
to be an outstanding ally and a
fellow warrior" or "and a fellow soldier in the struggle."
p.3, para. 2: This should read "turn your attention to and
enlist your support for. " The current "turn your attention --
and enlist your support -- on another pervasive problem" doesn't
parse.
p.3, para. 5: "budget
not
d.o.a."
:
We're asking for
trouble with this complacent, back-patting phrase. We should
stop citing an "achievement" that can be stripped away from us in
an instant by some sharp-tongued Democrat. The whole graf should
read as follows:
"The budget I presented to Congress last month is a
realistic, fiscally responsible plan that identifies key
priorities requiring our immediate attention. One of these
priorities is combating the scourge of drugs. That's why
I'm asking for an increase of $1 billion for our anti-drug
program. That's a 47 percent increase over 1988, for a
total of $6 billion."
-4-
p.4, para. 5: Instead of "Let me encourage you" etc., we would
make it more imperative: "I ask you to study your drug
enforcement programs. How can they help reduce demand for drugs?
Less demand means more success in the war on drugs.'
p.4, para. 6: We would make the first sentence more positive and
ambitious: "Our financial resources may be limited but our
resolve is unlimited." Then add: "With that limitless
resolution, I know that we can inspire every child, teacher, and
parent; every community group, religious institution, and tenant
association; and every business and professional organization in
this country. And then, united in common resolve, we will truly
be invincible."
And then we suggest adding a Rooseveltian clincher:
"As I have said before, we have more will than wallet.
However, the only limits on our will are those limits we place on
ourselves."
Note that our rewrite version avoids the phrase "hearts and
minds." Anyone who lived through Vietnam remembers the ironic
and cynical connotation that phrase took on.
p.5, para. 4: Again, "Let me now turn this party over to Bill
Reilly" is simply too light-hearted for this grim subject. In
keeping with a more substantive tone, get the job done with
simply "Let me now introduce."
Insurance Agents
p. 2, para. 4: This allusory graf contributes nothing to the
President's agenda. We think it should be deleted outright.
p.3, para. 3: It seems to us that we should follow this graf
with p.4, para. 1 immediately instead of detouring into job
creation.
p.4, para. 3: Here we are about to launch into selling our
program -- but we don't mention it by name: Building A Better
America.
We need a paragraph that establishes an umbrella theme for
the speech -- something reminiscent of the following, taken from
the 2/9 speech: "But I am presenting to you tonight a realistic
plan for tackling [the budget deficit]. My plan has four broad
features: Attention to urgent priorities, investment in the
future, an attack on the deficit, and no new taxes."
-5-
Before we launch into a long list of agenda items we should
wrap it into an overriding theme -- Building A Better America.
p.5, para. 1: "It is for this reason that I will resist the
movement toward mandated benefits." "Resist" has a footdragging
quality to it. We want to communicate the idea that we will not
just "resist," but will in fact block the move toward mandated
benefits. Therefore we would substitute the word "oppose."
The last sentence of this graf reads: "But these programs,
born of the best intentions, can have agonizing consequences.'
The word "agonizing" implies an unresolved dilemma. We would
change to "can have unintended and counterproductive
consequences.
"
Better yet, we could add another layer of anti-mandated
benefits argument, as follows:
"We have seen what happens in other countries where mandated
benefit programs create obstacles to productivity and growth. We
cannot Build a Better America if we weigh down our production
sector with new burdens."
p.5, para. 3: "But when local governments cannot install
playgrounds, when business are bankrupted, when volunteer
organization have to pull back" -- I would add "when mothers
struggle to find an obstetrician," -- and "volunteer
organization" should be plural.
p.5, para. 4: "All of my policies are centered around a single
goal " We'd change to "My plan for Building a Better America
is centered around
"
p.7, para. 1: "So my agenda is this: to confront the emerging
problems of the future today. " We'd add "and to invest in the
future.
"
p.7, para. 3: Change the word "areas" in "these are the areas
that will irrevocably alter the world" to "trends" -- and in the
next sentence: "Will American foreign policy be flexible enough
to meet this emerging new world order?" the word "flexible" by
itself looks weak. Flexibility is a virtue but it should be
coupled with vision. We'd rewrite to say "wise enough, creative
enough, and flexible enough
"
p.8, para. 1: Again, the term "Dead-On-Arrival" just begs for
some Democrat to take it away from us. We suggest using language
similar to what we suggested in the Attorneys General speech (pg.
3 of this memo).
-6-
p.8, para. 3: "Homelessness concerns a small proportion of
Americans. We'd change to "Homelessness afflicts a small number
of Americans but concerns all of us."
p.9, para. 1: "The environment -- once the domain of activists,
it is becoming a top priority of pinstriped diplomats."
As is written here, "activists" appears to be pejorative.
"Pinstriped" is also pejorative, the adjective of choice for
critics of the State Department.
We would reverse the logic from pejorative to complementary
and also omit "domain," which sounds both parochial and
territorial. Instead, we suggest the President throw a bouquet
to his fellow environmentalists: "Once the concern of a far-
sighted few, it is now a top priority of my Administration, at
home and abroad."
p.10, para. 3: "I've laid out my agenda for you." Change to
"I've laid out my agenda for Building a Better America."
#
March 10, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR JIM CICCONI
FROM;
DENISE SCHWARZ DS
OFFICE OF CABINET AFFAIRS
SUBJECT;
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS; DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
We have reviewed the attached and have noted the comments on
the attached.
Attachment
CC: Chriss Winston
015333SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
3/9/89
3/10/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by noon, Friday, March 10, 1989, with an info copy to my office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
(Davis/Simon)
March 9, 3:30 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
MARCH 15, 1989
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony. (Bill Mauldin -- "Willie and Joe" cartoons?)
((Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike.))
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect as a
bronzed giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
-2-
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
There have been three calls to arms in the living memory of
most Americans or their parents. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just
across the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in
an Associated Pr
bronze. No one
or what 1 slight to WWI Vets, as there
1 VA feils this might be a
picture,
pilot.
are still 114,000 living
WWI Vets.
We have yet
a way, although 1
moving forward.
these brave Ameri
born democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Memorial; a somber salute to
those who fell, and all who answered the call to duty. May we
never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
-3-
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone. But Lincoln himself
acknowledged that speeches and stone are inadequate repayment for
those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
But that doesn't free us of obligation. If you go to the
front enterance of the VeteranX Affairs Department, you will see
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a aluminum plate of steel,
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
-4-
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
-5-
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
This new department must match vast resources to vast needs.
Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a potential V.A.
beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans and 53 million
dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
-6-
The Department of Veterans Affairs will provide compensation
to service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income veterans
and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
families, and operates the fifth largest/ life insurance program industry in
America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes of every
service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost youth that can
only be measured in centuries.
-7-
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
#
#
#
015333SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
39 3/9/89 P.5. 04
3/10/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by noon, Friday, March 10, 1989, with an info copy to my office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1989 MAR - 9 Fil 4: 05
(Davis/Simon)
March 9, 3:30 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
MARCH 15, 1989
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony. (Bill Mauldin -- "Willie and Joe" cartoons?)
((Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike. ))
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect as a
bronzed giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
-2-
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
There have been three calls to arms in the living memory of
most Americans or their parents. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just
across the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in
an Associated Press photograph, is now cast for the ages in
bronze. No one who lived through that war will ever forget that
picture, or what it meant to us
certainly not this former
pilot.
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks ago I saw a living monument to
these brave Americans -- the nation of South Korea itself, a new-
born democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Memorial; a somber salute to
those who fell, and all who answered the call to duty. May we
never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
-3-
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone. But Lincoln himself
acknowledged that speeches and stone are inadequate repayment for
those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
But that doesn't free us of obligation. If you go to the
front enterance of the Veteran's Affairs Department, you will see
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a plate of steel,
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
-4-
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors. recognition ofservice.
Holen
g
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
-5-
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
manage its
its
(Holin)
This new department must match vast resources to vast needs.
Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a potential V.A.
beneficiary. Count among them ready 27 million veterans and 53 million
dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
-6-
Holen
5178
The Department of Veterans Affairs will provides compensation
disabled
to service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income veterans
and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
families, and operates the fifth largest insurance industry in
America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes of every
service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost youth that can
only be measured in centuries.
-7-
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
#
#
#
Document No. 015333SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
3/9/89
DATE:
3/10/89 NOON
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by noon, Friday, March 10, 1989, with an info copy to my office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
ohay
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
015333SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
3/9/89
3/10/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by noon, Friday, March 10, 1989, with an info copy to my office.
Thank you.
nice! AA
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1989 MAR 9 Pil 4: 05
(Davis/Simon)
March 9, 3:30 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
MARCH 15, 1989
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony. (Bill Mauldin -- "Willie and Joe" cartoons?)
((Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike.))
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect as a
bronzed giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
-2-
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
There have been three calls to arms in the living memory of
most Americans or their parents. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just
across the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in
an Associated Press photograph, is now cast for the ages in
bronze. No one who lived through that war will ever forget that
picture, or what it meant to us
...
certainly not this former
pilot.
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks ago I saw a living monument to
these brave Americans -- the nation of South Korea itself, a new-
born democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Memorial; a somber salute to
those who fell, and all who answered the call to duty. May we
never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
-3-
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract." These words are carved in stone. But Lincoln himself
acknowledged that speeches and stone are inadequate repayment for
those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
But that doesn't free us of obligation. If you go to the
front enterance of the Veteran's Affairs Department, you will see
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a plate of steel,
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
-4-
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
-5-
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
This new department must match vast resources to vast needs.
Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a potential V.A.
beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans and 53 million
dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
-6-
The Department of Veterans Affairs will provide compensation
to service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income veterans
and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
families, and operates the fifth largest insurance industry in
America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes of every
service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost youth that can
only be measured in centuries.
-7-
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans ...
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
#
#
#
015333SS
Document No.
1553
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
3/9/89
3/10/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930,
by noon, Friday, March 10, 1989, with an info copy to my office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
March 9, 1989
TO: Chriss Winston
NSC clears, with suggested fixes as marked.
Rata fr Brent
James W. Cicconi
Scowcroft
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
CC: James W. Cicconi
Ext. 2702
1989 MAR - 9 PH 4: 05
(Davis/Simon)
March 9, 3:30 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
DERWINSKI SWEARING-IN
SOUTH LAWN
MARCH 15, 1989
Good afternoon, Ed, Bonnie, Maureen and Michael. Good to
see you Tony. (Bill Mauldin -- "Willie and Joe" cartoons?)
((Ed, I want to compliment you on your fine suit. You
should know that if you had worn your gold-and-black checkered
jacket with your tomato red beret -- the White House camera crew
would have gone on strike. ))
From where we are standing, most of the landmarks of this
town are almost a stone's throw away. Just to the West of us,
Abraham Lincoln reposes majestically in his chair of stone.
Straight ahead of us, Thomas Jefferson commands our respect as a
bronzed giant underneath a dome of marble. And the Washington
Monument rises above the level surface of the Mall -- much as our
first President dominated his time.
-2-
We glorify our greatest leaders. But we do not build these
ivory temples to honor them alone. We honor the enduring
principles for which they stood. And we honor the millions of
men and women who have been ready throughout the history of our
nation to defend those principles.
There have been three calls to arms in the living memory of
most Americans or their parents. At the Iwo Jima memorial, just
across the river, a fleeting moment of victory, first captured in
an Associated Press photograph, is now cast for the ages in
bronze. No one who lived through that war will ever forget that
picture, or what it meant to us
...
certainly not this former
pilot.
We have yet to honor the veterans of the Korean War in such
a way, although I'm glad to see that planning for a memorial is
moving forward. But three weeks ago I saw a living monument to
the Republicof
these brave Americans -- the nation of South Korea itself, a new-
X
born democracy aided by American sacrifice, protected by American
strength.
Just below the horizon, to our right, are the simple lines
Veterans'
and chiseled names of the Vietnam Memorial; a somber salute to
X
those who fell, and all who answered the call to duty. May we
never cease to honor them, in name and deed.
-3-
Finally, let us never forget those men and women in the
Armed Forces who, even in peacetime, risk their lives in a
hardship post or a dangerous assignment, whether it's standing on
the deck of a carrier off the Persian Gulf, or an anti-terrorist
unit, waiting for a call we hope never comes.
The meaning of a monument, as Lincoln said of the
battlefield at Gettysburg, is "far above our poor power to add or
detract. " These words are carved in stone. But Lincoln himself
acknowledged that speeches and stone are inadequate repayment for
those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
But that doesn't free us of obligation. If you go to the
front enterance of the Veteran 2 Affairs Department, you will see
?
another quote from Abraham Lincoln, cast in a plate of steel,
calling on us: "to care for him who shall have borne the battle
and for his widow, and his orphan."
This is the mission of the new Department of Veterans
Affairs, which today officially assumes the duties of the
Veterans Administration. I consider the new department to have a
vital mission. In fact, it is so vital, that there is only one
place for the veterans of America -- in the Cabinet Room, at the
table with the President of the United States of America
-4-
As the first Secretary of this new Department, Ed Derwinski
will set a precedent. He is uniquely suited for this role,
having served with distinction in both the legislative and the
executive branches of government.
My friendship with Ed goes back to my days as a freshman
Congressman from Houston. And I know that for Ed, the House of
Representatives is still a second home with many friends. No
former colleague of Ed's can forget his unfailing good humor.
Nor will veterans forget his good work -- Ed's handling of a
heavy burden of casework, cutting red-tape so that thousands of
veterans could receive their pensions, medical benefits and
military honors.
At the State Department, Ed packed the achievements of a
whole career into a few years. He worked with Congress,
conducted special international negotiations with Canada, Iceland
and Pacific nations, acted as a senior official for refugee
policy and programs, and prevented the diversion of sensitive
U.S. technology to unfriendly nations.
-5-
In short, Ed Derwinski has the skill of a seasoned
legislator, the patience of a practiced administrator, the
finesse of a diplomat -- and the heart of a man who knows what it
means to start his government career as a private in the U.S.
Army.
This is a unique combination of experience and skills. And
make no mistake, the job requires someone with Ed Derwinski's
background and talents.
This new department must match vast resources to vast needs.
Almost one out of every three U.S. citizens is a potential V.A.
beneficiary. Count among them 27 million veterans and 53 million
dependents and survivors.
Ed will oversee a department with almost a quarter of a
million employees -- the second largest civilian task force in
the government -- administering a budget of more than $29
billion.
-6-
The Department of Veterans Affairs will provide compensation
to service-disabled veterans, pensions for low-income veterans
and survivors, educational assistance and vocational
rehabilitation. It guarantees the home loans for 12 million
families, and operates the fifth largest insurance industry in
America.
It also runs the nation's largest medical system, with 172
hospitals, and hundreds of outpatient clinics and nursing homes.
But the best resource of the new Department is its people --
men and women who live up to the highest ideal of public service
every day. They have my sincerest gratitude for a job well done.
It is only appropriate to note one other task assigned to
the Veterans Affairs Department -- to tend and care for 112
national cemeteries across America. There is no power or glamour
in such a job. But there is caring and respect -- for those who
are gone, and for those who grieve.
In these "gardens of stone" sleep the heroes of every
service, Marine, soldier, sailor, airman; lost youth that can
only be measured in centuries.
-7-
A President could have no more poignant a reminder that he
is charged with a great trust. It is my duty, as Commander-in-
Chief, to see to it that our armed forces are so strong, and our
diplomacy so wise, that we will never again need to erect another
monument to the casualties of war.
A free America in a world at peace. Together, we have
achieved that goal. Together, we can preserve it. And if we do,
then surely that peace will be the truest monument to our
veterans
Ed, congratulations, and thanks for all that you have
already done. We've got a big job ahead. I look forward to
working closely with you in the years to come.
#
#
#