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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
2011-2184-F
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13486
Folder ID Number:
13486-008
Folder Title:
Mississippi State University, 5/13/89 [1]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
15
7
2
2:25pm
(Smith/Blessey)
May 11, 1989
Draft Seven
MISS
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
D on P. 8
MISSISSIPPI STATE U.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
3 P.M.
on P. 3
President Zacharias, Members of the Board of Trustees, soon-
to-be fellow graduates, faculty, administrators, friends.
I want to thank you for that warm introduction. And for the
generosity of your welcome. And let me say how delighted I am to
address these Commencement ceremonies.
You know, one of my favorite Presidents was the man who
first coined the term "bully pulpit." The story goes that Teddy
Roosevelt would roam the halls of the White House, shouting
"bully, bully." Well, having just met your mascot, I think Teddy
would have felt right at home.
I also want to say what an honor it is to see again one of
the great patriots of this or any era, the Honorable John
Stennis. Ask anyone: Judge Stennis, Senator Stennis, doesn't
merely hail from Mississippi. He is Mississippi.
Another long-time friend, of course, is Congressman Sonny
Montgomery -- and I'm glad that he, too, is here.
2
Sonny's great-grandfather, Colonel W.B. Montgomery, was
instrumental in rebuilding Mississippi after the Civil War. And
he played a major role in founding this university.
This afternoon, I want to recognize those pioneering
efforts. And to salute his great-grandson, too. Sonny and I
play paddleball regularly. And he always kids me that I win only
when I'm wearing my Mississippi State sweat-shirt [PAUSE]
When I lose, I'm wearing Ole Miss.
You know, I come from a State where we like to sing "The
Eyes of Texas Are Upon You." Well, today, my friends, the eyes
of America are upon Starkville, Mississippi.
For we meet, to begin with, at a special school -- special
because for 109 years, Mississippi State has made education a
lasting legacy, and opportunity its bequest.
We gather, also, in a special State -- special for its
people. You realize that who we are matters more than what we
have. You value home and family and tradition.
I thought of that today as Air Force One brought me to
Mississippi. And of how for me, this afternoon also marks
3
another journey: Back to some of my pivotal years -- the years I
spent as an undergraduate.
It was 41 years ago next month that I, too, received my
degree. I'll never forget it
nor will my family
they're still in shock.
In 1948, there were only 172,000 TV sets owned in this
country. Milton Berle was Mr. Television, and taking pies in the
face. Harry Truman was Mr. President, and he was giving 'em
hell. In many ways, it was a different America. Less
congestion. Less pollution. Less high technology. PacMan was a
camper, not a video game.
lasy
Jus
We had problems, sure. At home, gas lines and a housing
shortage. And veterans adjusting to domestic life. Abroad, the
Cold War had turned downright frigid. The Communist bloc was
solidifying. China and the Middle East were rent by war. And in
a Europe torn by conflicting ideologies, the Soviets were
blockading West Berlin.
Yet, with the end of World War Two, America was unified as
few could have imagined. I am sure many of you have seen the
famous Life magazine photo that captured the spirit of the times:
the sailor in Times Square embracing a woman in the mass
4
exultation of V-J Day. A victory for freedom that came after so
much sacrifice.
Like the woman swept off her feet, the spirit of rejoicing -
- and more importantly -- the limitless possibilities of America
swept us all. I, too, felt that sense of idealism and
opportunity. And I decided to go to Texas to make the most of
the American Dream for my wife and baby.
Today, I look back upon those times and I am struck --
struck by the wonder of how much this country has achieved. What
newly-married vet in his early twenties could have envisioned
just how wide the golden door of opportunity would swing in four
short decades?
And I ask myself: What made this achievement possible?
What caused America's technological and scientific advance -- a
prosperity and power unprecedented in world history? One thing,
I believe, is what Mississippi's own William Faulkner called "the
old verities and truths of the heart."
My friends, it is these verities that in 1948 allowed us to
meet our problems together. For we took pride in our identity as
a Nation. And solace in our faith in God. Above all, we
believed in the simple, the basic, truths like kindness and
civility, self-sacrifice and courage, compassion and concern for
5
others. Timeless values which span the generations. Values
which show that America is great because America is good.
An old saying notes how "the world has turned over many
times. " It has since I graduated. The post-war period has given
way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive with
prospects for peace and with the certainty of change. Yet there
are some things that haven't changed since 1948. America's
values haven't.
We see these values everywhere -- at a church-based child-
care center, at choir practice, at the PTA. They uplift American
society -- for they reflect the tenets of "Do Unto Others":
tenets I respect, and which as President I will serve. And they
are the values of America's good, quiet, decent people --
Americans who know that we are not the sum of our possessions,
but of how we conduct ourselves.
These people form the heart of our society. And they enrich
its central unit: the family. Here, these values play a special
role. For they teach that life is not a celebration of self.
And our fate is not divisible.
As I told the graduating class at Alcorn State, I will do
nothing as President to weaken the role of family in our society.
6
Instead, I will do all I can to emphasize its importance and to
reinforce its role.
You know, I've been lucky -- a wonderful wife and five
great kids. And having put them through college, I remember
receiving letters from them, and there would always be a "P.S."
at the bottom. It was those three little words that say so much
about the special bond between parents at home and kids away at
school: "Please Send Money."
Five kids. And eleven lively grandkids -- by themselves,
they could field the Bulldogs' entire pitching staff. Like all
kids, they provide a Rubik's Cube of questions. And, like most
families, they supply that love and allegiance which make us more
fulfilled. And, believe me, sometimes we need that loyalty. I'm
reminded of the alumnus who sent his coach a telegram before the
big game. It read: "Remember, coach. We're all behind you --
win or tie."
Yes, the individual is important. But the family unit can
be our secret weapon, and our shield. And as President, I want
to strengthen it.
To help the family, we must keep America prosperous, strong,
and free. We must stop the scourge of drug abuse, and we will.
We must build an educational system which invests in our
7
children. And for those who, for whatever reason -- sickness,
poverty, the death of a loved one -- feel alone and isolated, let
us become their family: Not in a legal sense, but in a human
sense -- helping, supporting, and caring for our neighbor.
Today, millions of Americans are doing that -- giving of
themselves, and helping others. We term their work volunteerism,
or community service. For they show how the definition of a
successful life must include serving others.
You know, the French writer Jean Cocteau (Cock-TOE) was once
asked what he would take if his house were on fire and he could
remove only one thing. "I would take the fire," he replied.
He liked what worked. Well, SO do I. My friends, community
service works. Because it's real, not abstract -- it makes
achievement feasible. Compassion helps one child escape heroin
addiction. Generosity allows another to eat a decent meal.
Through faith in God, still another overcomes the curse of
bigotry and hatred.
That is why I have created the Office of National Service,
which will enlist new volunteers to help meet unmet social needs.
Project Victory, or Mission Impossible? Look to the heroes of
today for an answer.
8
Look, for example, to Dave Pettry, an MSU agronomist who has
traveled around the world to nurture soil management. Or Steve
Cooper, who works in Starkville's "Help Find the Children"
campaign. Or Donnie Prisock [PRY-suc] -- Dr. Donnie -- a
quadraplegic who earned his Ph. D., and who counsels handicapped
students at this school.
Heroes? Every one. For they know that the private sector -
- and individuals -- have the resources -- and the responsibility
-- to confront issues like hunger and health care, drug abuse and
teen pregnancy. A famous adage says that "Luck is the residue of
design." Well, America's luck can be the residue of
volunteerism's design.
My friends, you've worked and studied and struggled for four
years, and now you've endured the hardest part: Listening to a
Commencement address.
But let me leave you with the thought that Mississippi has
given America some indelible leaders -- in politics, John
Stennis; in education, publishing a Eugene Butler; in entertainment,
country's Jerry Clower. And, always, you've treasured Faulkner's
"verities and truths of the heart." "
Community service -- national service -- reflects those
verities: "Love and honor
and pride and compassion and
9
sacrifice." Values which can ennoble the family, and American
society at large.
Let Faulkner's "verities of the heart" be our values -- not
merely for this generation, but for future generations. And
inspired by America's good, quiet, decent people, let us help
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Good luck to each of you, and my heart-felt congratulations.
May your future be worthy of your dreams. And may you always
say, as I do now, God bless America. Thank you for inviting me
-- thank you so very much.
#
#
#
#
FILE
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 10, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH: CHRISS WINSTON
cu
FROM:
CURT SMITH
as
SUBJECT: MAY 13 MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
I. SUMMARY
At 3:15 p.m., Saturday, May 13, you will address the
Mississippi State University Commencement ceremonies. The
graduating class totals 2,000. About 15,000 people are expected
to attend, including John Stennis and Sonny Montgomery.
II. DISCUSSION
The attached remarks discuss how the world has changed since
your 1948 graduation, and how what hasn't changed are the values
which make America great. In particular, the text focuses on how
community service reflects the selfless character of America's
"good, quiet, decent people."
(Smith/Blessey)
May 10, 1989
Draft Six
MISS
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
MISSISSIPPI STATE U.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
3 P.M.
President Zacharias, Members of the Board of Trustees, soon-
to-be fellow graduates, faculty, administrators, friends.
I want to thank you for that warm introduction. And for the
generosity of your welcome. And let me say how delighted I am to
address these Commencement ceremonies.
You know, one of my favorite Presidents was the man who
first coined the term "bully pulpit." The story goes that Teddy
Roosevelt would roam the halls of the White House, shouting
"bully, bully." Well, having just met your mascot, I think Teddy
would have felt right at home.
I also want to say what an honor it is to see again one of
the great patriots of this or any era, the Honorable John
Stennis. Ask anyone: John Stennis doesn't merely hail from
Mississippi. He is Mississippi.
Another long-time friend, of course, is Congressman Sonny
Montgomery -- and I'm glad that he, too, is here.
2
Sonny's great-grandfather, Colonel W.B. Montgomery, was
instrumental in rebuilding Mississippi after the Civil War. And
he played a major role in founding this university.
This afternoon, I want to recognize those pioneering
efforts. And to salute his great-grandson, too. Sonny and I
play paddleball regularly. And he always kids me that I win only
when I'm wearing my Mississippi State sweat-shirt [PAUSE]
When I lose, I'm wearing Ole Miss.
You know, I come from a State where they like to sing "The
Eyes of Texas Are Upon You." Well, today, my friends, the eyes
of America are upon Starkville, Mississippi.
For we meet, to begin with, at a special school -- special
because for 109 years, Mississippi State has made education a
lasting legacy, and opportunity its bequest.
We gather, also, in a special State -- special for its
people. You realize that who we are matters more than what we
have. It's a state whose people value home and family and
tradition.
I thought of that today as Air Force One brought me to
Mississippi. And of how for me, this morning also marks another
3
journey: Back to some of my pivotal years -- the years I spent
as an undergraduate.
It was 41 years ago next month that I, too, received my
degree. I'll never forget it
nor will my family
they're still in shock.
In 1948, Milton Berle was Mr. Television, and taking pies in
the face. Harry Truman was Mr. President, and he was giving 'em
hell. In many ways, it was a different America. Less
congestion. Less pollution. Less high technology. PacMan was a
camper, not a video game.
We had problems, sure. At home, gas lines, a housing
shortage, and high inflation. And veterans adjusting to domestic
life. Abroad, the Cold War had turned downright frigid. The
Communist bloc was solidifying. China and the Middle East were
rent by war. And in a Europe torn by conflicting ideologies, the
Soviets were blockading West Berlin.
Yet, with the end of World War Two, America was unified as
few would have thought possible. I am sure many of you have seen
the famous Life magazine photo that captured the spirit of the
times: the sailor in Times Square embracing a woman in the mass
exultation of V-J Day. A victory for freedom that came after so
much sacrifice.
4
Like the woman swept off her feet, the spirit of rejoicing -
- and more importantly -- the limitless possibilities of America
swept us all. I, too, felt that sense of idealism and
opportunity. And I decided to go to Texas to make the most of
the American Dream for my wife and baby.
Today, I look back upon those times and I am struck --
struck by the wonder of how much this country has achieved. What
newly-married vet in his early twenties could have imagined just
how wide the golden door of opportunity would have swung in four
short decades?
And yet, in spite of all this achievement -- in spite of
technological and scientific advance
of prosperity and
power unprecedented in world history -- let us not forget the
things that made our progress possible. One is what
Mississippi's own William Faulkner called "the old verities and
truths of the heart."
My friends, it is these verities that in 1948 allowed us to
meet our problems together. For we took pride in our identity as
a Nation. And solace in our faith in God. Above all, we
believed in the simple, the basic, truths like kindness and
civility, self-sacrifice and courage, compassion and concern for
5
others. Timeless values which span the generations. Values
which show that America is great because America is good.
Thomas Paine once wrote that "the world has turned over
many times. " It has since I graduated. The post-war period has
given way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive
with prospects for peace and with the certainty of change. Yet
there are some things that haven't changed since 1948. America's
values haven't.
We see these values everywhere -- at a church-based child-
care center, at choir practice, at the PTA. They uplift American
society -- for they reflect the tenets of "Do Unto Others":
tenets I respect, and which as President I will serve. And they
are the values of America's good, quiet, decent people --
Americans who know that we are not the sum of our possessions,
but of how we conduct ourselves.
These people form the heart of our society. And they enrich
its central unit: the family. Here, these values play a special
role. For they teach that life is not a celebration of self.
And our fate is not divisible.
You know, I've been lucky --- a wonderful wife and five great
kids. And having put them through college, I remember receiving
letters from them, and there would always be a "P.S." at the
6
bottom. It was those three little words that say so much about
the special bond between parents at home and kids away at school:
"Please Send Money."
Five kids. And eleven lively grandkids -- by themselves,
they could field the Bulldogs' entire pitching staff. Like all
kids, they provide a Rubik's Cube of questions. And, like most
families, they supply that love and allegiance which make us more
fulfilled. And, believe me, sometimes we need that loyalty. I'm
reminded of the alumnus who sent his coach a telegram before the
big game. It read: "Remember, coach. We're all behind you --
win or tie. "
Yes, the individual is important. But the family unit can
be our secret weapon, and our shield. And as President, I want
to strengthen it.
To help the family, we must keep America prosperous, strong,
and free. We must stop the scourge of drug abuse, and we will.
We must build an educational system which invests in our
children. And for those who, for whatever reason -- sickness,
poverty, the death of a loved one -- feel alone and isolated, let
us become their family: Not in a legal sense, but in a human
sense -- helping, supporting, and caring for our neighbor.
7
7
Today, millions of Americans are doing that -- giving of
themselves, and helping others. We term their work volunteerism,
or community service. For they show how the definition of a
successful life must include serving others.
I have often said I like what works. Community service
works. Because it's real, not abstract -- it makes achievement
feasible. Compassion helps one child escape heroin addiction.
Generosity allows another to eat a decent meal. Through faith in
God, still another overcomes the curse of bigotry and hatred.
That is why I have created the Office of National Service,
which will enlist new volunteers to help meet unmet social needs.
Project Victory, or Mission Impossible? Look to the heroes of
today for an answer.
Look, for example, to Dave Pettry, an MSU agronomist who has
traveled around the world to nurture soil management. Or Steve
Cooper, who works in Starkville's "Help Find the Children"
campaign. or Donnie Prisock -- Dr. Donnie -- a paraplegic who
earned his Ph. D., and who counsels handicapped students at this
school.
Heroes? Every one. For they know that the private sector -
- and individuals -- have the resources -- and the responsibility
-- to confront issues like hunger and health care, drug abuse and
8
teen pregnancy. A famous adage says that "Luck is the residue of
design." Well, America's luck can be the residue of
volunteerism's design.
My friends, Mississippi has given America some indelible
leaders -- in politics, John Stennis and Sonny Montgomery; in
education, a Eugene Butler; in entertainment, country's Jerry
Clower. And, always, you've treasured Faulkner's "verities and
truths of the heart.' II
Community service -- national service -- reflects those
verities: "Love and honor
and pride and compassion and
sacrifice." Values which can ennoble the family, and American
society at large.
Let Faulkner's "verities of the heart" be our values -- not
merely for this generation, but for future generations. And
inspired by America's good, quiet, decent people, let us help
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Good luck to each of you, and my heart-felt congratulations.
May your future be worthy of your dreams. And may you always
say, as I do now, God bless America. Thank you for inviting me
-- thank you so very much.
# # #, #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 10, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
PATRICIA MACK BRYAN PluB
LEE S. LIBERMAN 1st
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
President's Mississippi Speeches
In response to our comments from yesterday afternoon, yesterday
evening Jim Cicconi requested that we see to it that the Civil
Rights Division of the Justice Department review the draft
speeches last night. As the attached memorandum notes, that
review has been completed, and the Division has cleared the
speeches.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 9, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES W. CICCONI
FROM:
PATRICIA MACK BRYAN PMB
LEE S. LIBERMAN
1st
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
President's Commencement Speeches at Mississippi
State and Alcorn Colleges
The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division has reviewed these
speeches, and sees no conflicts with its pending litigation.
As you requested, you will be receiving a separate memorandum to
serve as general background for the President's trip summarizing
the issues involved in that litigation as well as its status.
CC: Chriss Winston
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 9, 1989
MEMORANDUM TO CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
JIM PINKERTON- Q
SUBJECT:
Mississippi State Commencement Speech Draft
We like this speech, particularly the references to 1948 as
a time of national cohesion in the face of economic and foreign
challenges, although we believe that those references can be put
in a more personal way that evokes the President's own feelings
about the time [see below at 3,1-4]. Of all the commencement
speeches, we understand that this is the only opportunity for the
President to speak from the heart. We should make the most of
this opportunity.
Pg. 1, Para. 4, Line 3 Does the President really play
paddleball every week with Rep. Montgomery? The press will be
curious. Also, is paddleball the right term? Do we mean
racquetball? paddle tennis? (note the latter game's uppercrusty
connotation).
1,3,1
If we rewrote this line to say, "First, I want to
say " it would read a lot easier.
2,2,1
"
I come from a state whose official song is 'The
Eyes of Texas
This is not the official state song (it's
"Texas, Our Texas"), but the song of the Univ. of Texas, the
rival of Texas A & M -- the latter's fight song in fact pokes
fun at "The Eyes of Texas."
Thus, it would be better to say something like "...I come
from a state where they like to sing 'The Eyes of Texas "
OPD prefers, however, to defer to the judgement of the Staff
Secretary (U. of Texas, '74,) and the Assistant to the President
for Congressional Liaison (Texas A & M, '76) on this matter.
2,2,3
Mississippi State is in Starkville, not Jackson.
(more)
Dave Chriss IT orginally) discussed invensely this and "more kind of
approval per Su the Presides we had would dousts so a
vowelle feel conformsle doing
2-2-2
Curt
3,1-4
We commend the device of referring back to the time of
the President's own graduation. We believe that it should be
made more evocative of the President's own feeling of idealism at
this time of national cohesion, and his admiration of the
achievements that America has wrought since.
Moreover, this evocation on page three could be the point at
which to introduce the excellent Faulkner line, now used for the
first time on page six. By introducing Faulkner early, and re-
Cut,
introducing him later, we develop a motif for the entire speech.
Thus, we suggest inserting lines such as the following:
Yet)
hat's
With the end of World War Two, America was unified as few
would have thought possible. I am sure many of you have seen the
famous Life magazine photo that captured the spirit of the times:
an
the sailor in Times Square embracing a woman in the mass
exultation of V-J Day. A victory for freedom that came after so
much sacrifice.
And
too,
S(Todan,
"Like the woman swept off her feet, the spirit of rejoicing
-- and more importantly -- the limitless possibilities of
America, sweptyall off us. I felt that sense of idealism and
opportunity. I decided to go South #0 Texas to make the most of the
American Dream for my wife and baby. I look back upon those
times and I am struck -- struck by the wonder of how much this
country has achieved. What newly-married vet in his early
twenties could have imagined just how wide the golden door of
opportunity would have swung in four short decades?
"And yet, in spite of all this achievement -- in spite of
technological and scientific advance
of Americans landing on
the moon unrivaled leadership in the arts and commerce
prosperity and power unprecedented in world history -- in spite
of all this, there are some things which we must recapture. One
is what Mississippi's own William Faulkner called "the old
verities and truths of the heart."
span ple geerations . link
unite
degenerations.
3,1,3
"In many ways, it was different America. Not worse or
better, just different. We think most Americans, including the
President, agree that America is better off today. Progress in
civil rights alone spells a massive improvement in the U.S. since
the '40s. You can still talk about the "good old days" in
glowing terms even as you argue that things are getting better.
(more)
3-3-3
3,2,4
"The Communist bloc was monolithic." Strictly
speaking, the idea of a monolithic Communist bloc emerged after
China turned communist. 1948 was the year that Yugoslavia was
expelled from Cominform and certain Central European countries
were not yet fully communist, e.g. Romania. We are on safer
ground to say: "The Communist bloc was solidifying."
4,4,1
"And eleven brimming grandkids " We suggest
adjectives such as "lively" or "strapping," rather than
"brimming," which is less apt.
4,4,3
"Rubik's Cube of questions" is an excellent turn of
phrase.
4,4,4
"
they supply that love and allegiance which makes us
less alone. If We suggest a more positive phrase than "less alone"
such as "more human.'
5,3,1
"To help the family, we must keep America economically
strong and at peace abroad. " We suggest a phrase such as
"
prosperous, strong, and free" rather than use the words
"economically strong, which could also be interpreted to mean
"thriftily" or "efficiently" strong, and "at peace abroad" which
omits the qualifying notions of strength and freedom.
5,3,4
If
for whatever reason -- divorce, poverty, death --
feel alone and isolated " We suggest using "sickness" rather
than "divorce" and "spiritual emptiness" rather than "death."
Divorce is a common enough occurrence as not to warrant
comparison with more serious afflictions; and you obviously
can't feel alone if your dead, which is one way the sentence
could be read.
#
034025SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/8/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 10:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
PETERSMEYER
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Tuesday, May 9, 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
(Smith/Blessey)
1939 MAY C
May 6, 1989
Draft Five
MISS
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
MISSISSIPPI STATE U.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
President Zacharias, Members of the Board of Trustees, soon-
to-be fellow graduates, faculty, administrators, friends.
You know, one of my favorite Presidents was the man who
first coined the term "bully pulpit." The story goes that Teddy
Roosevelt would roam the halls of the White House, shouting
"bully, bully." Well, having just met your mascot, I think Teddy
would have felt right at home.
I want first to say what an honor it is to see again one of
the great patriots of this or any era, the Honorable John
Stennis. Ask anyone: John Stennis doesn't merely hail from
Mississippi. He is Mississippi.
Another long-time friend, of course, is your Congressman,
Sonny Montgomery -- and I'm glad that he, too, is here. You
know, each week Sonny and I play paddleball. And he always kids
me that I win only when I'm wearing my Mississippi State sweat-
shirt [PAUSE]
When I lose, I'm wearing Ole Miss.
2
I want to thank you for that warm introduction. And for the
generosity of your welcome. And let me say how delighted I am to
address these Commencement ceremonies.
You know, I come from a State whose official song is "The
Eyes of Texas Are Upon You. " Well, today, my friends, the eyes
of America are upon Jackson, Mississippi.
For we meet, to begin with, at a special school -- special
because for 111 years, Mississippi State has made education a
lasting legacy, and opportunity its bequest.
We gather, too, in a special State -- special for its
people. You realize that what we are matters more than what we
have. You cherish home and people's feelings and how they grew
up.
I thought of those lessons today as Air Force One brought me
to Mississippi. And of how for me, this morning also marks
another journey: Back to some of my pivotal years -- the vears I
spent as an undergraduate.
It was 41 years ago next month that I, too, received my
degree. I'll never forget it
nor will my teachers
they're still in shock.
3
In 1948, Milton Berle was Mr. Television, and taking pies in
the face. Harry Truman was Mr. President, and he was giving 'em
hell. In many ways, it was a different America. Not worse or
better, just different. Less congestion. Less pollution. Less
high technology. PacMan was a camper, not a video game.
We had problems, sure. At home, gas lines, a housing
shortage, and high inflation. And veterans adjusting to domestic
life. Abroad, the Cold War had turned downright frigid. The
Communist bloc was monolithic. China and the Middle East were
rent by war. And in a Europe torn by conflicting ideologies, the
Soviets were blockading West Berlin.
But we met our problems together. For we took pride in our
identity as a Nation. And solace in our faith in God. Above
all, we believed in the simple, the basic, things like kindness
and civility, self-sacrifice and courage, compassion and concern
for others. Values which are timeless, and which span the
generations. Values which show that America is great because
America is good.
Tom Paine once wrote that "the world has turned over many
times." It has since I graduated. The post-war period has given
way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive with
prospects for peace and with the certainty of change. Yet there
are some things that haven't changed since 1948. America's
values haven't.
4
We see these values everywhere -- at a child-care center,
at Choir practice, at the PTA. They uplift American society --
for they reflect the tenets of "Do Unto Others": tenets I
respect, and which as President I will serve. And they are the
values of America's good, quiet, decent people -- Americans who
know that we are not the sum of our possessions, but of how we
conduct ourselves.
These people form the heart of our society. And they enrich
its central unit: the family. Here, these values play a special
role. For they teach that life is not a celebration of self.
And our fate is not divisible.
ONS INSERT
You know, I've been lucky --- a wonderful wife and five great
kids. And having helped put them through college, I remember
receiving letters from them, and there would always be a "P.S."
at the bottom. It was those three little words that say so much
about the special bond between parents at home and kids away at
school: "Please Send Money."
Five kids. And eleven brimming grandkids -- by themselves,
they could field the Bulldogs' entire pitching staff. Like all
kids, they provide a Rubik's Cube of questions. And, like most
families, they supply that love and allegiance which make us less
alone. And, believe me, sometimes we need that loyalty. I'm
5
reminded of the alumnus who sent his coach a telegram before the
big game. It read: "Remember, coach. We're all behind you --
win or tie."
Yes, the individual is important. But the family unit can
be our secret weapon, and our shield. And as President, I want
to strengthen it.
To help the family, we must keep America economically strong
and at peace abroad. We must stop the scourge of drug abuse, and
we will. We must build an educational system which invests in
our children. And for those who, for whatever reason -- divorce,
poverty, death -- feel alone and isolated, let us become their
family: Not in a legal sense, but in a human sense -- helping,
supporting, and caring for our neighbor.
Today, millions of Americans are doing that -- giving of
themselves, and helping others. We term their work volunteerism,
or community service. For they show how the definition of a
successful life must include serving others.
I have often said I like what works. Community service
works. Because it's real, not abstract -- it makes achievement
possible. Compassion helps one child escape heroin addiction.
Generosity allows another to eat a decent meal. Through faith in
God, still another overcomes the curse of bigotry and hatred.
6
That is why I have created the Office of National Service,
which will enlist new volunteers to help meet unmet social needs.
Project Victory, or Mission Impossible? Look to the heroes of
today for an answer.
Look, for example, to Dave Pettry, an MSU agronomist who has
traveled around the world to nurture soil management. Or Steve
Cooper, who works in Starkville's "Help Find the Children"
campaign. Or other students who work at adult education centers,
combating the problem of illiterary. Or Donnie Prisock -- Dr.
Donnie -- a paraplegic who earned his Ph. D., and who counsels
handicapped students at this school.
Heroes? Every one. They know that life is not a ledger
board. And they know that the private sector -- and individuals
-- have the resources -- and the responsibility -- to confront
issues like hunger and health care, drug abuse and teen
pregnancy. A famous adage says that "Luck is the residue of
design." Well, America's luck can be the residue of
volunteerism's design.
My friends, Mississippi has given America some indelible
leaders -- in politics, John Stennis and Sonny Montgomery; in
education, a Eugene Butler; in entertainment, country's Jerry
Clower. And, always, you've treasured what Mississippi's native
son, William Faulkner termed "the old verities and truths of the
heart."
7
son, William Faulkner termed "the old verities and truths of the
heart."
Community service -- national service -- reflects those
verities: "Love and honor
...
and pride and compassion and
sacrifice." Values which can ennoble the family, and American
society at large.
Let Faulkner's "verities of the heart" be our values -- not
merely for this generation, but for future generations. And
inspired by America's good, quiet, decent people, let us help
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Good luck to each of you, and my heart-felt congratulations.
May your future be worthy of your dreams. And may you always
say, as I do now, God bless America. Thank you for inviting me
-- thank you SO very much.
#
#
#
#
034025SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/8/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 10:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
PETERSMEYER
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Tuesday, May 9, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Are connents
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
1039
MAY
THE
May 6, 1989
Draft Five
MISS
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
MISSISSIPPI STATE U.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
President Zacharias, Members of the Board of Trustees, soon-
to-be fellow graduates, faculty, administrators, friends.
You know, one of my favorite Presidents was the man who
first coined the term "bully pulpit." The story goes that Teddy
Roosevelt would roam the halls of the White House, shouting
"bully, bully." Well, having just met your mascot, I think Teddy
would have felt right at home.
I want first to say what an honor it is to see again one of
the great patriots of this or any era, the Honorable John
Stennis. Ask anyone: John Stennis doesn't merely hail from
Mississippi. He is Mississippi.
Another long-time friend, of course, is your Congressman,
Sonny Montgomery -- and I'm glad that he, too, is here. You
know, each week Sonny and I play paddleball. And he always kids
me that I win only when I'm wearing my Mississippi State sweat-
shirt [PAUSE]
When I lose, I'm wearing Ole Miss.
2
I want to thank you for that warm introduction. And for the
generosity of your welcome. And let me say how delighted I am to
address these Commencement ceremonies.
You know, I come from a State whose official song is "The
Eyes of Texas Are Upon You. " Well, today, my friends, the eyes
of America are upon Jackson, Mississippi.
For we meet, to begin with, at a special school -- special
because for 111 years, Mississippi State has made education a
lasting legacy, and opportunity its bequest.
We gather, too, in a special State -- special for its
who
people. You realize that what we are matters more than what we
have.
You cherish home and people's feelings and how they grew
up.
what lessons
Dave - how does
has about )) or
the way"
sound
?
malis
-
point
what
I thought of those lessons today as Air Force One brought me
background
of a
to Mississippi. And of how for me, this morning also marks
pesch
matters
another journey: Back to some of my pivotal years -- the years I
am
spent as an undergraduate.
It was 41 years ago next month that I, too, received my
degree. I'll never forget it
nor will my teachers
some of
them and
they re still in shock.
3
In 1948, Milton Berle was Mr. Television, and taking pies in
the face. Harry Truman was Mr. President, and he was giving 'em
hell. In many ways, it was a different America. Not worse or
better, just different. Less congestion. Less pollution. Less
high technology. PacMan was a camper, not a video
game. 1948 ? -
We had problems, sure. At home, gas lines, a housing
shortage, and high inflation. And veterans adjusting to domestic
life. Abroad, the Cold War had turned downright frigid. The
Communist bloc was monolithic. China and the Middle East were
rent by war. And in a Europe torn by conflicting ideologies, the
Soviets were blockading West Berlin.
But we met our problems together. For we took pride in our
identity as a Nation. And solace in our faith in God. Above
all, we believed in the simple, the basic, things like kindness
and civility, self-sacrifice and courage, compassion and concern
for others. Values which are timeless, and which span the
generations. Values which show that America is great because
America is good.
Tom Paine once wrote that "the world has turned over many
times." It has since I graduated. The post-war period has given
way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive with
prospects for peace and with the certainty of change. Yet there
are some things that haven't changed since 1948. America's
values haven't.
4
We see these values everywhere -- at a child-care center,
at Choir practice, at the PTA. They uplift American society --
for they reflect the tenets of "Do Unto Others": tenets I
respect, and which as President I will serve. And they are the
values of America's good, quiet, decent people -- Americans who
know that we are not the sum of our possessions, but of how we
conduct ourselves.
These people form the heart of our society. And they enrich
its central unit: the family. Here, these values play a special
role. For they teach that life is not a celebration of self.
And our fate is not divisible.
You know, I've been lucky -- a wonderful wife and five great
kids. And having helped put them through college, I remember
receiving letters from them, and there would always be a "P.S."
at the bottom. It was those three little words that say SO much
about the special bond between parents at home and kids away at
school: "Please Send Money."
Five kids. And eleven brimming grandkids -- by themselves,
they could field the Bulldogs' entire pitching staff. Like all
kids, they provide a Rubik's Cube of questions. And, like most
families, they supply that love and allegiance which make us less
alone. And, believe me, sometimes we need that loyalty. I'm
5
reminded of the alumnus who sent his coach a telegram before the
big game. It read: "Remember, coach. We're all behind you --
win or tie. "
Yes, the individual is important. But the family unit can
be our secret weapon, and our shield. And as President, I want
to strengthen it.
To help the family, we must keep America economically strong
and at peace abroad. We must stop the scourge of drug abuse, and
we will. We must build an educational system which invests in
our children. And for those who, for whatever reason -- divorce,
of a loved me
poverty, death -- feel alone and isolated, let us become their
family: Not in a legal sense, but in a human sense -- helping,
supporting, and caring for our neighbor.
Today, millions of Americans are doing that -- giving of
themselves, and helping others. We term their work volunteerism,
or community service. For they show how the definition of a
successful life must include serving others.
I have often said I like what works. Community service
works. Because it's real, not abstract -- it makes achievement
possible. Compassion helps one child escape heroin addiction.
Generosity allows another to eat a decent meal. Through faith in
God, still another overcomes the curse of bigotry and hatred.
6
That is why I have created the Office of National Service,
which will enlist new volunteers to help meet unmet social needs.
Project Victory, or Mission Impossible? Look to the heroes of
today for an answer.
Look, for example, to Dave Pettry, an MSU agronomist who has
traveled around the world to nurture soil management. Or Steve
Cooper, who works in Starkville's "Help Find the Children"
campaign. Or other students who work at adult education centers,
combating the problem of illiterary. Or Donnie Prisock -- Dr.
Donnie -- a paraplegic who earned his Ph. D., and who counsels
handicapped students at this school.
Heroes? Every one. They know that life is not a ledger
board. And they know that the private sector -- and individuals
-- have the resources -- and the responsibility -- to confront
issues like hunger and health care, drug abuse and teen
pregnancy. A famous adage says that "Luck is the residue of
design." Well, America's luck can be the residue of
volunteerism's design.
My friends, Mississippi has given America some indelible
leaders -- in politics, John Stennis and Sonny Montgomery; in
education, a Eugene Butler; in entertainment, country's Jerry
Clower. And, always, you've treasured what Mississippi's native
son, William Faulkner termed "the old verities and truths of the
heart."
7
son, William Faulknex termed the old verities and truths of the
heart
11
Community service -- national service -- reflects those
verities: "Love and honor
and pride and compassion and
sacrifice." Values which can ennoble the family, and American
society at large.
Let Faulkner's "verities of the heart" be our values -- not
merely for this generation, but for future generations. And
inspired by America's good, quiet, decent people, let us help
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Good luck to each of you, and my heart-felt congratulations.
May your future be worthy of your dreams. And may you always
say, as I do now, God bless America. Thank you for inviting me
-- thank you so very much.
#
#
#
#
034025SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/8/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 10:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
PETERSMEYER
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Tuesday, May 9, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See comments
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
ICS9 MAY - C CHIP
May 6, 1989
Draft Five
MISS
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
MISSISSIPPI STATE U.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
President Zacharias, Members of the Board of Trustees, soon-
to-be fellow graduates, faculty, administrators, friends.
You know, one of my favorite Presidents was the man who
first coined the term "bully pulpit." The story goes that Teddy
Roosevelt would roam the halls of the White House, shouting
"bully, bully." Well, having just met your mascot, I think Teddy
would have felt right at home.
I want first to say what an honor it is to see again one of
the great patriots of this or any era, the Honorable John
Stennis. Ask anyone: John Stennis doesn't merely hail from
Mississippi. He is Mississippi.
Another long-time friend, of course, is your Congressman,
Sonny Montgomery -- and I'm glad that he, too, is here. You
know, each week Sonny and I play paddleball. And he always kids
me that I win only when I'm wearing my Mississippi State sweat-
shirt [PAUSE]
When I lose, I'm wearing Ole Miss.
2
I want to thank you for that warm introduction. And for the
generosity of your welcome. And let me say how delighted I am to
address these Commencement ceremonies.
You know, I come from a State whose official song is "The
Eyes of Texas Are Upon You. " Well, today, my friends, the eyes
of America are upon Jackson, Mississippi.
For we meet, to begin with, at a special school -- special
because for 111 years, Mississippi State has made education a
lasting legacy, and opportunity its bequest.
We gather, too, in a special State -- special for its
people. You realize that what we are matters more than what we
have. You cherish home and people's feelings and how they grew
up.
I thought of those lessons today as Air Force One brought me
to Mississippi. And of how for me, this morning also marks
another journey: Back to some of my pivotal years -- the years I
spent as an undergraduate.
It was 41 years ago next month that I, too, received my
This doesn't +
degree. I'll never forget it
nor will my teachers
sound right
they're still in shock.
Bush is
Phi KappA Beta
Dolen 5178
3
In 1948, Milton Berle was Mr. Television, and taking pies in
the face. Harry Truman was Mr. President, and he was giving 'em
hell. In many ways, it was a different America. Not worse or
better, just different. Less congestion. Less pollution. Less
high technology. PacMan was a camper, not a video game.
We had problems, sure. At home, gas lines, a housing
shortage, and high inflation. And veterans adjusting to domestic
life. Abroad, the Cold War had turned downright frigid. The
Communist bloc was monolithic. China and the Middle East were
rent by war. And in a Europe torn by conflicting ideologies, the
Soviets were blockading West Berlin.
But we met our problems together. For we took pride in our
identity as a Nation. And solace in our faith in God. Above
all, we believed in the simple, the basic, things like kindness
and civility, self-sacrifice and courage, compassion and concern
for others. Values which are timeless, and which span the
generations. Values which show that America is great because
America is good.
Tom Paine once wrote that "the world has turned over many
times." It has since I graduated. The post-war period has given
way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive with
prospects for peace and with the certainty of change. Yet there
are some things that haven't changed since 1948. America's
values haven't.
4
Holen
x5178
Church-base
We see these values everywhere -- at a child care centers
at Choir practice, at the PTA. They uplift American society --
for they reflect the tenets of "Do Unto Others": tenets I
respect, and which as President I will serve. And they are the
values of America's good, quiet, decent people -- Americans who
know that we are not the sum of our possessions, but of how we
conduct ourselves.
These people form the heart of our society. And they enrich
its central unit: the family. Here, these values play a special
role. For they teach that life is not a celebration of self.
And our fate is not divisible.
You know, I've been lucky -- a wonderful wife and five great
kids. And having helped put them through college, I remember
receiving letters from them, and there would always be a "P.S."
at the bottom. It was those three little words that say so much
about the special bond between parents at home and kids away at
school: "Please Send Money."
Five kids. And eleven brimming grandkids -- by themselves,
they could field the Bulldogs' entire pitching staff. Like all
kids, they provide a Rubik's Cube of questions. And, like most
families, they supply that love and allegiance which make us less
alone. And, believe me, sometimes we need that loyalty. I'm
5
reminded of the alumnus who sent his coach a telegram before the
big game. It read: "Remember, coach. We're all behind you --
win or tie."
Yes, the individual is important. But the family unit can
be our secret weapon, and our shield. And as President, I want
to strengthen it.
To help the family, we must keep America economically strong
and at peace abroad. We must stop the scourge of drug abuse, and
we will. We must build an educational system which invests in
our children. And for those who, for whatever reason -- divorce,
poverty, death -- feel alone and isolated, let us become their
family: Not in a legal sense, but in a human sense -- helping,
supporting, and caring for our neighbor.
Today, millions of Americans are doing that -- giving of
themselves, and helping others. We term their work volunteerism,
or community service. For they show how the definition of a
successful life must include serving others.
I have often said I like what works. Community service
works. Because it's real, not abstract -- it makes achievement
possible. Compassion helps one child escape heroin addiction.
Generosity allows another to eat a decent meal. Through faith in
God, still another overcomes the curse of bigotry and hatred.
6
That is why I have created the Office of National Service,
which will enlist new volunteers to help meet unmet social needs.
Project Victory, or Mission Impossible? Look to the heroes of
today for an answer.
Look, for example, to Dave Pettry, an MSU agronomist who has
traveled around the world to nurture soil management. Or Steve
Cooper, who works in Starkville's "Help Find the Children"
campaign. Or other students who work at adult education centers,
combating the problem of illiterary. Or Donnie Prisock -- Dr.
Donnie -- a paraplegic who earned his Ph. D., and who counsels
handicapped students at this school.
Heroes? Every one. They know that life is not a ledger
board. And they know that the private sector -- and individuals
-- have the resources -- and the responsibility -- to confront
issues like hunger and health care, drug abuse and teen
pregnancy. A famous adage says that "Luck is the residue of
design." Well, America's luck can be the residue of
volunteerism's design.
My friends, Mississippi has given America some indelible
leaders -- in politics, John Stennis and Sonny Montgomery; in
education, a Eugene Butler; in entertainment, country's Jerry
Clower. And, always, you've treasured what Mississippi's native
son, William Faulkner termed "the old verities and truths of the
heart."
7
son, William Faulkner termed "the old verities and truths of the
heart. "
Community service -- national service -- reflects those
verities: "Love and honor
and pride and compassion and
sacrifice." Values which can ennoble the family, and American
society at large.
Let Faulkner's "verities of the heart" be our values -- not
merely for this generation, but for future generations. And
inspired by America's good, quiet, decent people, let us help
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Good luck to each of you, and my heart-felt congratulations.
May your future be worthy of your dreams. And may you always
say, as I do now, God bless America. Thank you for inviting me
-- thank you so very much.
#
#
#
#
There is something peculiarly American about the notion that we
are here to serve others. It is part of the historic American
value system to believe that we have an obligation to make life
better not just for ourselves and our posterity, but also for
others in our community and the world around us. But, to be
honest, in recent years, some of us seemingly lost sight of our
heritage of deep compassion and concern for those outside
ourselves.
That is way I called in my Inagural Address for a "new engagement
in each others' lives", a reawakening of the traditional American
notion that it is every citizen's obligation, as the heir to a
great and proud nation unprecedented in power and prosperity, to
make life better in his or her own community. I have pointed to
" a thousand points of light", meaning the whole constellation of
concerened and committed individuals, schools and colleges,
churches and synagogues, businesses and firms, unions, civic
groups and service organizations that can make such a positive
difference in the lives of their communities.
While the nation is at peace and record numbers of Americans are
enjoying an historic degree of prosperity, a number of seemingly
intractable problems plague us in the latter part of the century,
which time has proved to be beyond the power of government alone
to solve. At the root of many of these problems, homelessness,
teenage pregnancy, illiteracy, drug abuse, AIDS, rampant crime,
to name a few, lie the break-up of too many families, the erosion
of moral values and the disintegration of communities. While
there is a critical role for government and funding to play, no
amount of money can rebuild a family, reawaken moral values or
reweave a community. Only the power of the American people and
their many institutions working together can fill this void.
That is why I have taken the unprecendented step of establishing
in the White House an Office of National Service which will under
my leadership:
(i) call every individual and institution in America to commit
themselves to community service;
(ii) raise the level of understanding of the satisfaction and
empowerment that comes from service;
(iii) identify service initiatives undertaken by neighborhoods,
businesses, schools, churches and other institutions that are
"working" and the extraordinarily gifted leaders who are making
them "work";
2
(iv) help to ensure that everyone who wants to serve knows of
available service opportunities in his or her community; and
(v) identify legal and governmental barriers to increased levels
of service (i.e, tort law reform, tax reform
and welfare law reform).
At present the Office of National Service is hard at work
developing and planning a strategy to implement my YES to America
or Youth Entering Service to American initiative. While I will
ultimately call all Americans to service, I hope that young
people like you, as the inheritors of the nation, will lead the
way in making service to others part of any definition of a
successful life.
I will announce my youth service initiative by early summer and
submit legislation to the Hill to implement it. I hope that I
can depend upon your help in redirecting the energy and idealism
of American youth toward service to others. With your help, we
will make America truly "kinder and gentler" as we enter the 21st
century by brightening the American horizon with millions of
points of light.
034025SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/8/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 10:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
PINKERTON
CICCONI
PETERSMEYER
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Tuesday, May 9, 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
(Smith/Blessey)
1039 MAY THE
May 6, 1989
Draft Five
MISS
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
MISSISSIPPI STATE U.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
President Zacharias, Members of the Board of Trustees, soon-
to-be fellow graduates, faculty, administrators, friends.
You know, one of my favorite Presidents was the man who
first coined the term "bully pulpit." The story goes that Teddy
Roosevelt would roam the halls of the White House, shouting
"bully, bully." Well, having just met your mascot, I think Teddy
would have felt right at home.
I want first to say what an honor it is to see again one of
the great patriots of this or any era, the Honorable John
Stennis. Ask anyone: John Stennis doesn't merely hail from
Mississippi. He is Mississippi.
Another long-time friend, of course, is your Congressman,
Sonny Montgomery -- and I'm glad that he, too, is here. You
know, each week Sonny and I play paddleball. And he always kids
me that I win only when I'm wearing my Mississippi State sweat-
shirt [PAUSE]
When I lose, I'm wearing Ole Miss.
2
I want to thank you for that warm introduction. And for the
generosity of your welcome. And let me say how delighted I am to
address these Commencement ceremonies.
You know, I come from a State whose official song is "The
Eyes of Texas Are Upon You. " Well, today, my friends, the eyes
of America are upon Jackson, Mississippi.
For we meet, to begin with, at a special school -- special
because for 111 years, Mississippi State has made education a
lasting legacy, and opportunity its bequest.
We gather, too, in a special State -- special for its
people. You realize that what we are matters more than what we
have. You cherish home and people's feelings and how they grew
up.
I thought of those lessons today as Air Force One brought me
to Mississippi. And of how for me, this morning also marks
another journey: Back to some of my pivotal years -- the years I
spent as an undergraduate.
It was 41 years ago next month that I, too, received my
degree. I'll never forget it
nor will my teachers
they're still in shock.
3
In 1948, Milton Berle was Mr. Television, and taking pies in
the face. Harry Truman was Mr. President, and he was giving 'em
hell. In many ways, it was a different America. Not worse or
better, just different. Less congestion. Less pollution. Less
high technology. PacMan was a camper, not a video game.
We had problems, sure. At home, gas lines, a housing
shortage, and high inflation. And veterans adjusting to domestic
life. Abroad, the Cold War had turned downright frigid. The
Communist bloc was monolithic. China and the Middle East were
rent by war. And in a Europe torn by conflicting ideologies, the
Soviets were blockading West Berlin.
But we met our problems together. For we took pride in our
identity as a Nation. And solace in our faith in God. Above
all, we believed in the simple, the basic, things like kindness
and civility, self-sacrifice and courage, compassion and concern
for others. Values which are timeless, and which span the
generations. Values which show that America is great because
America is good.
Tom Paine once wrote that "the world has turned over many
times." It has since I graduated. The post-war period has given
way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive with
prospects for peace and with the certainty of change. Yet there
are some things that haven't changed since 1948. America's
values haven't.
4
We see these values everywhere -- at a child-care center,
at Choir practice, at the PTA. They uplift American society --
for they reflect the tenets of "Do Unto Others": tenets I
respect, and which as President I will serve. And they are the
values of America's good, quiet, decent people -- Americans who
know that we are not the sum of our possessions, but of how we
conduct ourselves.
These people form the heart of our society. And they enrich
its central unit: the family. Here, these values play a special
role. For they teach that life is not a celebration of self.
And our fate is not divisible.
You know, I've been lucky -- a wonderful wife and five great
kids. And having helped put them through college, I remember
receiving letters from them, and there would always be a "P.S."
at the bottom. It was those three little words that say so much
about the special bond between parents at home and kids away at
school: "Please Send Money."
Five kids. And eleven brimming grandkids -- by themselves,
they could field the Bulldogs' entire pitching staff. Like all
kids, they provide a Rubik's Cube of questions. And, like most
families, they supply that love and allegiance which make us less
alone. And, believe me, sometimes we need that loyalty. I'm
5
reminded of the alumnus who sent his coach a telegram before the
big game. It read: "Remember, coach. We're all behind you --
win or tie."
Yes, the individual is important. But the family unit can
be our secret weapon, and our shield. And as President, I want
to strengthen it.
To help the family, we must keep America economically strong
and at peace abroad. We must stop the scourge of drug abuse, and
we will. We must build an educational system which invests in
our children. And for those who, for whatever reason -- divorce,
poverty, death -- feel alone and isolated, let us become their
family: Not in a legal sense, but in a human sense -- helping,
supporting, and caring for our neighbor.
Today, millions of Americans are doing that -- giving of
themselves, and helping others. We term their work volunteerism,
or community service. For they show how the definition of a
successful life must include serving others.
I have often said I like what works. Community service
works. Because it's real, not abstract -- it makes achievement
possible. Compassion helps one child escape heroin addiction.
Generosity allows another to eat a decent meal. Through faith in
God, still another overcomes the curse of bigotry and hatred.
6
That is why I have created the Office of National Service,
which will enlist new volunteers to help meet unmet social needs.
Project Victory, or Mission Impossible? Look to the heroes of
today for an answer.
Look, for example, to Dave Pettry, an MSU agronomist who has
traveled around the world to nurture soil management. Or Steve
Cooper, who works in Starkville's "Help Find the Children"
campaign. Or other students who work at adult education centers,
combating the problem of illiterary. Or Donnie Prisock -- Dr.
Donnie -- a paraplegic who earned his Ph. D., and who counsels
handicapped students at this school.
Heroes? Every one. They know that life is not a ledger
board. And they know that the private sector -- and individuals
-- have the resources -- and the responsibility -- to confront
issues like hunger and health care, drug abuse and teen
pregnancy. A famous adage says that "Luck is the residue of
design." Well, America's luck can be the residue of
volunteerism's design.
My friends, Mississippi has given America some indelible
leaders -- in politics, John Stennis and Sonny Montgomery; in
education, a Eugene Butler; in entertainment, country's Jerry
Clower. And, always, you've treasured what Mississippi's native
son, William Faulkner termed "the old verities and truths of the
heart."
7
son, William Faulkner termed "the old verities and truths of the
heart."
Community service -- national service -- reflects those
verities: "Love and honor
and pride and compassion and
sacrifice." Values which can ennoble the family, and American
society at large.
Let Faulkner's "verities of the heart" be our values -- not
merely for this generation, but for future generations. And
inspired by America's good, quiét, decent people, let us help
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Good luck to each of you, and my heart-felt congratulations.
May your future be worthy of your dreams. And may you always
say, as I do now, God bless America. Thank you for inviting me
-- thank you so very much.
# # # #
034025SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/8/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 10:00 AM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
PETERSMEYER
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 10:00 AM, Tuesday, May 9, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
no Comments
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
BOND
(Smith/Blessey)
CHRISS
May 10, 1989
Draft Six
w/ memo
MISS
PRESI
MENCEMENT ADDRESS
MISSISSIPPI STATE U.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
3 P.M.
President Zacharias, Members of the Board of Trustees, soon-
to-be fellow graduates, faculty, administrators, friends.
You know, one of my favorite Presidents was the man who
first coined the term "bully pulpit." The story goes that Teddy
Roosevelt would roam the halls of the White House, shouting
"bully, bully." Well, having just met your mascot, I think Teddy
would have felt right at home.
First I want to thank you for that warm introduction. And
for the generosity of your welcome. And let me say how delighted
I am to address these Commencement ceremonies.
was
Next, I want to say what an honor it is to see again one of
the great patriots of this or any era, the Honorable John
Stennis. Ask anyone: John Stennis doesn't merely hail from
Mississippi. He is Mississippi.
SEB
Another long-time friend, of course, is your Congressman,
Sonny Montgomery -- and I'm glad that he, too, is here.
2
Sonny's great-grandfather, Colonel W.B. Montgomery, was
instrumental in rebuilding Mississippi after the Civil War. And
he played a major role in founding this university.
This afternoon, I want to recognize those pioneering
efforts. And to salute his great-grandson, too. Sonny and I
play paddleball regularly. And he always kids me that I win only
when I'm wearing my Mississippi State sweat-shirt [PAUSE]
When I lose, I'm wearing Ole Miss.
You know, I come from a State where they like to sing "The
Eyes of Texas Are Upon You. " Well, today, my friends, the eyes
of America are upon Starkville, Mississippi.
For we meet, to begin with, at a special school -- special
because for 109 years, Mississippi State has made education a
lasting legacy, and opportunity its bequest.
We gather, also, in a special State -- special for its
people. You realize that who we are matters more than what we
have. It's a state whose people value home and family and
tradition.
I thought of that today as Air Force One brought me to
Mississippi. And of how for me, this morning also marks another
3
journey: Back to some of my pivotal years -- the years I spent
as an undergraduate.
It was 41 years ago next month that I, too, received my
degree. I'll never forget it
nor will my family
they're still in shock.
In 1948, Milton Berle was Mr. Television, and taking pies in
the face. Harry Truman was Mr. President, and he was giving 'em
hell. In many ways, it was a different America. Less
congestion. Less pollution. Less high technology. PacMan was a
camper, not a video game.
We had problems, sure. At home, gas lines, a housing
shortage, and high inflation. And veterans adjusting to domestic
life. Abroad, the Cold War had turned downright frigid. The
Communist bloc was solidifying. China and the Middle East were
rent by war. And in a Europe torn by conflicting ideologies, the
Soviets were blockading West Berlin.
Yet, with the end of World War Two, America was unified as
few would have thought possible. I am sure many of you have seen
the famous Life magazine photo that captured the spirit of the
times: the sailor in Times Square embracing a woman in the mass
exultation of V-J Day. A victory for freedom that came after so
much sacrifice.
4
Like the woman swept off her feet, the spirit of rejoicing -
- and more importantly -- the limitless possibilities of America
swept us all. I, too, felt that sense of idealism and
opportunity. And I decided to go to Texas to make the most of
the American Dream for my wife and baby.
Today, I look back upon those times and I am struck --
struck by the wonder of how much this country has achieved. What
newly-married vet in his early twenties could have imagined just
how wide the golden door of opportunity would have swung in four
short decades?
And yet, in spite of all this achievement -- in spite of
technological and scientific advance
of prosperity and
power unprecedented in world history -- let us not forget the
things that made our progress possible. One is what
Mississippi's own William Faulkner called "the old verities and
truths of the heart. "
My friends, it is these verities that in 1948 allowed us to
meet our problems together. For we took pride in our identity as
a Nation. And solace in our faith in God. Above all, we
believed in the simple, the basic, truths like kindness and
civility, self-sacrifice and courage, compassion and concern for
5
others. Timeless values which span the generations. Values
which show that America is great because America is good.
Thomas
Tom Paine once wrote that "the world has turned over many
times. II It has since I graduated. The post-war period has given
way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive with
prospects for peace and with the certainty of change. Yet there
are some things that haven't changed since 1948. America's
values haven't.
SEB
We see these values everywhere -- at a church-based child-
care center, at Choir practice, at the PTA. They uplift American
society -- for they reflect the tenets of "Do Unto Others":
tenets I respect, and which as President I will serve. And they
are the values of America's good, quiet, decent people --
Americans who know that we are not the sum of our possessions,
but of how we conduct ourselves.
These people form the heart of our society. And they enrich
its central unit: the family. Here, these values play a special
role. For they teach that life is not a celebration of self.
And our fate is not divisible.
SEB
You know, I've been lucky -- a wonderful wife and five great
kids. And having helped put them through college, I remember
receiving letters from them, and there would always be a "P.S."
6
at the bottom. It was those three little words that say so much
about the special bond between parents at home and kids away at
school: "Please Send Money."
Five kids. And eleven lively grandkids -- by themselves,
they could field the Bulldogs' entire pitching staff. Like all
kids, they provide a Rubik's Cube of questions. And, like most
families, they supply that love and allegiance which make us more
fulfilled. And, believe me, sometimes we need that loyalty. I'm
reminded of the alumnus who sent his coach a telegram before the
big game. It read: "Remember, coach. We're all behind you --
win or tie. "
Yes, the individual is important. But the family unit can
be our secret weapon, and our shield. And as President, I want
to strengthen it.
To help the family, we must keep America prosperous, strong,
and free. We must stop the scourge of drug abuse, and we will.
We must build an educational system which invests in our
children. And for those who, for whatever reason -- sickness,
poverty, the death of a loved one -- feel alone and isolated, let
us become their family: Not in a legal sense, but in a human
sense -- helping, supporting, and caring for our neighbor.
7
Today, millions of Americans are doing that -- giving of
themselves, and helping others. We term their work volunteerism,
or community service. For they show how the definition of a
successful life must include serving others.
I have often said I like what works. Community service
works. Because it's real, not abstract -- it makes achievement
feasible. Compassion helps one child escape heroin addiction.
Generosity allows another to eat a decent meal. Through faith in
God, still another overcomes the curse of bigotry and hatred.
That is why I have created the Office of National Service,
which will enlist new volunteers to help meet unmet social needs.
Project Victory, or Mission Impossible? Look to the heroes of
today for an answer.
Look, for example, to Dave Pettry, an MSU agronomist who has
traveled around the world to nurture soil management. Or Steve
Cooper, who works in Starkville's "Help Find the Children"
campaign. Or Donnie Prisock -- Dr. Donnie -- a paraplegic who
earned his Ph. D., and who counsels handicapped students at this
school.
Heroes? Every one. For they know that the private sector -
- and individuals -- have the resources -- and the responsibility
-- to confront issues like hunger and health care, drug abuse and
8
teen pregnancy. A famous adage says that "Luck is the residue of
design." Well, America's luck can be the residue of
volunteerism's design.
My friends, Mississippi has given America some indelible
leaders -- in politics, John Stennis and Sonny Montgomery; in
education, a Eugene Butler; in entertainment, country's Jerry
Clower. And, always, you've treasured Faulkner's "verities and
truths of the heart."
Community service -- national service -- reflects those
verities: "Love and honor
and pride and compassion and
sacrifice." Values which can ennoble the family, and American
society at large.
Let Faulkner's "verities of the heart" be our values -- not
merely for this generation, but for future generations. And
inspired by America's good, quiet, decent people, let us help
enrich America -- so that America can enrich the world.
Good luck to each of you, and my heart-felt congratulations.
May your future be worthy of your dreams. And may you always
say, as I do now, God bless America. Thank you for inviting me
-- thank you so very much.
# # # #
An old saying notes how "the world has turned over many
times. " It has since I graduated. The post-war period has given
way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive with
prospects for peace and the certainty of change.
Yesterday, I talked of that change -- of a new policy
that moves beyond containment of the Soviet Union. This
new policy seeks to bring the Soviet Union into the family of
nations A If we succeed, your future will be safer, the world
you will know will be more free.
Change, yes, yet there are some things etc.
13A
TAIKED
Thes,
yesteropy, I taked of that Change -
of A new policy that MOVES BeyonD CONTA into inment
of THE SOUIET Union.
THIS/NEW POLICY SEEKS TO BRING YOUR THE
FAMILY OF NATIONS. If WE SUCCETO, 5 the future
civility, self-sacrifice and courage, compassion and concern for willbe
others. Timeless values which span the generations. your Values AND
SAFER,
the
which show that America is great because America is good.
the WORLD
will be more
Free, term
An old saying notes how "the world has turned over many L CHAnge,
times." It has since I graduated. The post-war period has given yes,
way to a new world -- a world still perilous, but alive with
prospects for peace and with the certainty of change. Yet there
are some things that haven't changed since 1948. America's
values haven't.
We see these values everywhere -- at a church-based child-
care center, at choir practice, at the PTA. They uplift American
society -- for they reflect the tenets of "Do Unto Others":
tenets I respect, and which as President I will serve. And they
are the values of America's good, quiet, decent people --
Americans who know that we are not the sum of our possessions,
but of how we conduct ourselves.
These people form the heart of our society. And they enrich
its central unit: the family. Here, these values play a special
role. For they teach that life is not a celebration of self.
And our fate is not divisible.
As I told the graduating class at Alcorn State, I will do
nothing as President to weaken the role of family in our society.