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Seymour Johnson AFB Address 2/1/91 [OA 6029]
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5
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
(Goldsboro, North Carolina)
For Immediate Release
February 1, 1991
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO AIR FORCE PERSONNEL AND FAMILY
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
Goldsboro, North Carolina
11:55 A.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you so very much. Cynthia, thank
you for that introduction. This is the warmest picnic on a cold day
I've ever attended, I'll tell you. (Applause.) And really, it's
great to be here at Seymour Johnson, home of the 4th Tactical Fighter
Wing -- the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" -- (applause) -- as well as
these great refueling units, the 68th and the 916th. (Applause.)
And let me just pay my respects and say what an unbelievable job
Colonel "Jumbo" Wray is doing here on this base. We're very proud of
him. (Applause.) While your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm, Jumbo is filling in, doing just great.
And I'm also glad to see a man that flew over with me
from our last stop -- that's Governor Martin out here, the Governor
of this state. Congressman Martin Lancaster, from this district, and
I am very proud he is with us here today. And, of course, the
Mayor, Mayor Plunk is with us, too. And I wanted to specifically
thank the Military Affairs Committee of the Wayne County Chamber of
Commerce for hosting this fantastic picnic. I don't believe I've had
so much fun in a long, long time. (Applause.)
And, of course, I do want to salute two others -- our
very able Secretary of the Air Force, that you just met, Don Rice
back there; as well as the Air Force Chief of Staff, General Tony
McPeak -- both of them doing a fantastic job for our country.
(Applause.)
This is a three-stop day for me. We just came here from
the Marine Air Station at Cherry Point, and from here we head to Fort
Stewart. But I want to tell you how very pleased I am to be able to
spend some time meeting and talking to at least some of you --
especially the kids -- because I know in my heart how tough these
days can be. There's a lot of waiting, a lot of uncertainty. The
not knowing. But each of you do know this: The men and women from
Seymour Johnson are doing a fantastic job for this country, and we
are very, very grateful. (Applause.)
You've got the tactical fighters and the refuelers and
the medical personnel -- (applause) -- the civil engineers and the
security police. I just want you to know how grateful the nation is
to this entire team -- and to you -- and to share with you here today
just a few thoughts. I cast fear and horror into the heart of one
guy I was having lunch with because I told him this was going to take
45 minutes -- it won t, believe me.
But let me just share some thoughts with you. I probably
don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen and women of this
base are part of the most motivated, the best educated, the best
equipped armed forces in the history of this great country of ours --
bar none. (Applause.) Because they are, and you are, doing the hard
work of freedom, the cause of freedom will prevail. I'm absolutely
certain of that. (Applause.)
You know, we're now more than two weeks into Desert
- 2 -
Storm. And I'm happy to say and -- put it this way -- we are on
course and we are on schedule. And as each day passes, Iraq's war
machine, thanks to many of your loved ones, is being systematically
destroyed by our allied military forces. Our investment, our
training, and our planning are paying off. And, yes, sacrifices
still lay ahead, but we will succeed. And when we do, we will have
taught Saddam Hussein -- and all others like him -- that there is no
place for lawless aggression in the region or in this new world order
that we envision. (Applause.)
While I'm here, I would be remiss if I didn't salute what
the U.S. and coalition airmen have accomplished. Air superiority is
an established fact now. The Iragi Air Force is no longer a factor.
(Applause.) And I know that this base, as much as any base in the
country -- this base is very proud of the way that we have used air
superiority to go after Saddam's missiles of terror. (Applause.)
And, yes, our mission in the Gulf is demanding and it's
difficult, but I can tell you that our troops will not be asked to
accomplish their mission with one hand tied behind their back. We
are not going to do that in this war. (Applause.) And let me say
something else -- your husbands and wives, and your moms and dads
will not be in that Gulf one day longer than is absolutely necessary.
I want them home, and I want them all home. (Applause.)
And finally -- and I don't think I have to tell this
particular group this point -- but I want each of you and all our
troops -- this really is for the troops -- I want you to know that
the American people stand with you. And I hope you had a chance to
watch at least part of that -- the part of the State of the Union
message that I want to mention to you because if you did, you would
have seen a very moving scene: The entire Congress -- and
Congressman Lancaster was there; he will tell you this is true -- the
entire Congress, the Cabinet, the Supreme Court, the Joint Chiefs,
the diplomatic corps, rose to their feet in a prolonged, heartfelt
tribute to the troops. It was a moving thing. And if only you could
have felt it as I did standing up there in front of the Congress --
felt the thunder of the applause and sensed the emotion that filled
that chamber. And the cheering for our Armed Forces -- and it was
strong, it was for them -- was followed by two more standing ovations
for, you, the courageous families of our servicemen and women. And it
was for you and for our troops. And that's exactly the way it should
have been.
And I hope that that Saddam Hussein, in his bunker
somewhere in Baghdad, saw every single minute of it. And if he had
-- (applause) -- and if he did, maybe he now understands that we are
a nation united in support of our troops. (Applause.)
I know it's been tough on a lot of you -- maybe all you
-- here at at Seymour Johnson. And I know also what it is that you
have offered this great nation of ours. I understand what it is that
I have asked of you, what General NcPeak has asked of you. Members
of this fighting unit have voluntarily set aside their freedom to
wage this battle. But while today some may be prisoners of war, and
others may have made the ultimate sacrifice, a lifetime of democracy
and faith in God keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
imprison the love of liberty that beats in the hearts of every
American.
And before I finish, I'd like to say something to all of
the kids here today. I want you to know that your parents, your
loved ones, our troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war
today so that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow.
And seeing such strong, wonderful families here today,
and knowing the support that you have received from this community is
good for the soul and proves the strength of America's spirit. And I
thank each and every one of you -- I thank each and every one of you.
And when I climbed on Air Force One of this morning out there, I told
them this over at Cherry Point, I heard on the television, President
Bush is visiting the bases to help lift the moral. And it's been
MORE
- 3 -
exactly 180 degrees the other way around. My moral has been pretty
darn good, frankly, but seeing those people over there and now all of
you, my moral has never been more sky-high. (Applause.)
Thank you for this fantastic support for the troops.
(Applause.) Because you see -- you see, I do draw strength and
courage from your forbearance for the job that the Colonel and all
the others are doing around here. And I ask God's blessing upon you
all -- every one of you -- and upon every soldier and sailor, Marine,
airman and Coast Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the
Persian Gulf. What a wonderful country we have. And nothing could
prove that more than the patriotism and the courage and the devotion
of your loved ones, our beloved troops, halfway around the world.
May God bless the United States of America and each and
every one of you. (Applause.) Thank you very, very much.
END
12:06 P.M. EST
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 31, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON w
FROM:
MARY KATE GRANT mkg
SUBJECT:
VISIT WITH FAMILIES AT SEYMOUR JOHNSON A.F.B.,
GOLDSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
I. SUMMARY
Attached for your review are draft remarks during a picnic
with the families of servicemen at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
in Goldsboro, North Carolina to be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday,
February 1. Several thousand people will attend, and you will be
accompanied by Secretary of the Air Force Don Rice and Air Force
Chief of Staff General McPeak and their wives.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (6 minutes/cards) will be delivered at an
outdoor picnic, from a toast lectern. After the picnic, you will
be meeting with the families of two POWs and two MIAs from this
base.
Seymour Johnson is the home of the 4th Tactical Fighter
Wing, as well as two air refueling groups. This wing flies F-
15E planes, which have recently destroyed Scud missile launchers.
Grant/Blymire
January 31, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
GOLDSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
11:30 A.M.
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
as well as your refueling units, the 68th and the 916th. // And
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel "Jumbo" Wray is
doing here on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel
Hornburg, is deployed with Desert Storm.
I am proud to share this stage with the Secretary of the Air
Force, Dr. Don Rice and his wife; as well as the Air Force Chief
of Staff, General Tony McPeak and his wife. ///
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids -- because I know how
tough these times can be. The waiting. The uncertainty. The
not knowing. But each of you do know this: the men and women
from Seymour Johnson are doing a phenomenal job. // The tactical
fighters, the refuelers, the medical personnel, the civil
engineers, the security police. // I want you to know how
grateful the nation is to all of them -- and to you -- and to
share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this base are part of the most motivated, best
2
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. // Because they are doing the hard work of
freedom, the cause of freedom will prevail. //
We are now more than two weeks into Operation Desert Storm.
And I am happy to say, we are on course and on schedule. As each
day passes, Iraq's war machine is being systematically destroyed
by our allied military forces. Our investment, our training, and
our planning are paying off. Sacrifices still lay ahead, but we
will succeed. // And when we do, we will have taught Saddam
Hussein -- and all others like him -- that there is no place for
lawless aggression in the region or in the new world order that
we envision.
While I'm here, I would be remiss if I did not salute what
U.S. and coalition airmen have accomplished. Air superiority is
an established fact. The Iraqi Air Force is no longer a factor.
And I know that this base is very proud of the way we have used
that superiority to go after Saddam's missiles of terror.
Our mission in the Gulf is difficult and demanding, but I
can tell you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their
mission with one hand tied behind their back. And know something
else your husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not
be in the Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people stand with them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
3
Supreme Coúrt, Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their
feet in a prolonged, heartfelt tribute to the troops. If only
you could have felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the
emotion that filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed
by two more standing ovations for you, the courageous families of
our servicemen and women -- it was for you and for our troops.
And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. I know what
it is that you have offered the Nation. I understand what it is
I have asked of you. Members of this fighting unit have
voluntarily set aside their freedom to wage this battle. But
while today some may be prisoners of war, a lifetime of democracy
keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can imprison the
love of liberty that beats in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your parents, our troops in
the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so that you may
know the blessings of peace tomorrow.
Seeing such strong families here today -- knowing the
support you have received from this community -- is good for the
soul and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each
and every one of you. I draw courage from your forbearance, and
I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon every soldier and
sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast Guardsman -- every man and
woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
0760
Document No. 208938
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 JAN 31 P12: 48
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(01/30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
>
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
>
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
X
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
January 31, 1991
TO: CHRISS WINSTON
The NSC staff has reviewed and forwards the attached comments.
Brent Refund Scowcroft
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
RECEIVED
91 JAN 31 A 7: 45
at
I M31 615:18
Grant/Blymire
91 JAN 30 PM 7:55
January 30, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME?
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
gura group,
your refueling units,
as well as the 68th and the 916th, Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
ones
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
from Semover Johnson
The lactical
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
fighters th refulers, medical personnel and civil engineer, records
the police. most decorated units in the Air Force, // with an outstanding
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
and
to them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this base unit are part of the most motivated, most best
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. // They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
insert
of terror.
2
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace, and I can tell
is no is an that this base is very proud of the way we
have used that superiority to 90 aFter Saddam's missiles
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
did
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
While I'm here, I would be remiss if I
not salute what U.S. and coalition airmen have
accomplished. Air superiority established Fact. The
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
Iraqi air Force longer a factor. And I Know
servicemen and womenA [That applause wasn't for me it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
Voluntarily set aside
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
to wage
cases, their lives in this battle. But while the enemy has
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
KIA)
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
that beats
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your dads and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
d know what it is that you have offered
the nation. d understand what it is of have
asked of you.
knowing the support received you from have the local community --
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America." "
Seeing such strong families here today is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
Document No. 208937
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 JAN 31 A8: 15
01/30/91
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 11:00 a.m. 01/31/91
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MARINES & FAMILIES/CHERRY POINT, NC
(01/30 5:00 p.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE N/U
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT partiatles
PORTER N/U
DARMAN N/C
ROGICH NIL
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS NIC
DEMAREST
WINSTON
FITZWATER
Mil. Office
GRAY Ron Vonlamble 3218
HOLIDAY
N/V
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 11:00 a.m. on Thurdsay, 01/31,
with a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Cololonel Mc Dyre, Mics. Koolak,
mrs. Sutton
bener
91 JAN 30 PM 7:42
(Smith/Cawley)
January 30, 1991
5 P.M.
General mundy,
CHERRY
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MARINES & FAMILIES
CHERRY POINT, N.C.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1991
8:50 A.M.
mrs. Hearney.
Thank you, General Gray. Secretary of the Navy Garrett.
M
Gen. mundy
General Richwine. Families, friends, and members of "The few.
The proud. The Marines.' " // There is a song which speaks of
"Carolina in the Morning." Well, I'm pleased to be here this
morning to salute all of you who form the magnificent "Carolina
MAGTF" [[mag-taf] //
Admiral Bull Halsey -- forgive me, a Navy man -- once called
you "not merely the elite Corps of this country but the elite
Corps of the world." // I agree. // Let me tell you, it is a
real privilege to be at a home base of the United States Marine
Corps. //
For 216 years, the Marine Corps has helped write the story
of America. And today -- in wartime, as in peacetime you write
that story still. / It is the story of "Semper Fidelis" -- Always
Faithful -- to the liberty which sets men free. Think of Marines
storming the beaches of Iwo Jima. / Taking the shell-torn ridges
CHOSIN [CHO-SAHN] Guadal Canal.
of Mont Blanc and Hamburger Hill. / Patrolling the skies from
Okinawa to Korea and now to Saudi Arabia. /
As I said Tuesday night in my State of the Union Address, to
be an American means writing new chapters in this story. It
means enlisting in the cause of liberty and undertaking the hard
It comes as no surprise that the first ground
engagement of the Gulf war involved Marines bravdy It
comes as no surprese that the marines fought distinction with
2
work of freedom -- a cause which today in the Persian Gulf, your
colleagues -- friends -- above all, families -- have bravely and
willingly borne as Marines have always done. //
prolessonalesmand
Their sacrifice will end the nightmare of Iraq's brutal
occupation -- and ensure that Kuwait once again is free. //
Their courage and commitment will help punish -- not reward --
aggression and protect our new world order from the tyranny of
ruthless dictators with no concern for human life.
insert
Every day, I think of our brave servicemen and women like
A
and the
the 2nd Marine Aircraft aivwing Wing -- eleven squadrons and two
2nd force
battalions deployed in the Gulf. // And the 2nd Marine Division service
of Camp Lejeune. Ninety percent of its members are deployed in
support Group.
the Gulf. They, too, believe in a cause larger than themselves.
// Most of all, I think of those who have already given the last
full measure of devotion. I will never let the memory and the
lwarp carry keepa place in my heart for
stet
families of these American heroes down. //
Not far from here yellow ribbons stretch as far as the eye
can see. They show what Dwight Eisenhower meant when he said,
"Morale is the greatest single factor in successful wars." //
The communities of Jacksonville and Havelock [HAV-lock] care. So
like communities all across America, they have joined hands to
support military troops and their families. I think of your
schools -- touching troops with their letters and their love.
And the "Key Wives Program" -- linking families, and hearts. //
If there's anyone who wonders what we're fighting for, they need
look no further than this room. //
3
Unfortunately, there are no medals of valor for military
families. If there were, there would be as much decoration upon
your chests as there is pride within them. / Two weeks ago, a
monument was dedicated a mile from here. It has five service
seals and this inscription: "Operation Desert Storm: This
beacon burning bright is a constant reminder of Havelock's home
fires burning in support of our military men and women and their
families." // To all of you -- spouses, children, parents, loved ones.,
Marines -- you're doing more than just keeping the home fires
burning. Your dedication and bravery is lighting the heart of
every American. / You are hastening the day when your men and
women will come home. Let me repeat: We will stay in the Gulf
as necessary
for as long -- but not one day longer MA than it takes us to
complete our mission. //
There
Let me close with a verse that always reminds me of the
Marines. "Not gold but only men can make a people great and
strong," it begins. "Men who for truth and honor's sake stand
fast and suffer long. / Brave men who work while others sleep,
who dare while others fly." It concludes: "They build a
nation's pillars deep and lift them to the sky." //
Today the sulf,
The Marines abroad
the Marines at home
--
their
families
and their friends all of you are enduring much to keep America
strong and great. // Thank you and let me leave you with
= Back then,
words written more than a century ago. The Marines had just
anded on another distant shore
entered Panama, and a reporter wrote: "The Marines have landed
4
and the situation is well in hand. " // Nothing has changed --
and nothing will. //
Thank you for your support. God bless you and this great
country. But most of all, God bless the finest Marines,
soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Coast Guardsmen any Nation has
ever had.
#
#
#
#
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 JAN i A10 12
1/31/91
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES - GOLDSBORO, N.C.
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 31, 1991
91 JAN 31 PM 5:41
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON w
FROM:
MARY KATE GRANT mkg
SUBJECT:
VISIT WITH FAMILIES AT SEYMOUR JOHNSON A.F.B.,
GOLDSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
I. SUMMARY
Attached for your review are draft remarks during a picnic
with the families of servicemen at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
in Goldsboro, North Carolina to be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday,
February 1. Several thousand people will attend, and you will be
accompanied by Secretary of the Air Force Don Rice and Air Force
Chief of Staff General McPeak and their wives.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (6 minutes/cards) will be delivered at an
outdoor picnic, from a toast lectern. After the picnic, you will
be meeting with the families of two POWs and two MIAs from this
base.
Seymour Johnson is the home of the 4th Tactical Fighter
Wing, as well as two air refueling groups. This wing flies F-
15E planes, which have recently destroyed Scud missile launchers.
Grant/Blymire
January 31, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
GOLDSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
11:30 A.M.
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
as well as your refueling units, the 68th and the 916th. // And
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel "Jumbo" Wray is
doing here on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel
Hornburg, is deployed with Desert Storm.
I am proud to share this stage with the Secretary of the Air
Force, Dr. Don Rice and his wife; as well as the Air Force Chief
of Staff, General Tony McPeak and his wife. ///
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids -- because I know how
tough these times can be. The waiting. The uncertainty. The
not knowing. But each of you do know this: the men and women
from Seymour Johnson are doing a phenomenal job. // The tactical
fighters, the refuelers, the medical personnel, the civil
engineers, the security police. // I want you to know how
grateful the nation is to all of them -- and to you -- and to
share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this base are part of the most motivated, best
2
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. 11 Because they are doing the hard work of
freedom, the cause of freedom will prevail. //
We are now more than two weeks into Operation Desert Storm.
And I am happy to say, we are on course and on schedule. As each
day passes, Iraq's war machine is being systematically destroyed
by our allied military forces. Our investment, our training, and
our planning are paying off. Sacrifices still lay ahead, but we
will succeed. // And when we do, we will have taught Saddam
Hussein -- and all others like him -- that there is no place for
lawless aggression in the region or in the new world order that
we envision.
While I'm here, I would be remiss if I did not salute what
U.S. and coalition airmen have accomplished. Air superiority is
an established fact. The Iraqi Air Force is no longer a factor.
And I know that this base is very proud of the way we have used
that superiority to go after Saddam's missiles of terror.
Our mission in the Gulf is difficult and demanding, but I
can tell you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their
mission with one hand tied behind their back. And know something
else -- your husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not
be in the Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people stand with them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
3
Supreme Court, Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their
feet in a prolonged, heartfelt tribute to the troops. If only
you could have felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the
emotion that filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed
by two more standing ovations for you, the courageous families of
our servicemen and women -- it was for you and for our troops.
And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. I know what
it is that you have offered the Nation. I understand what it is
I have asked of you. Members of this fighting unit have
voluntarily set aside their freedom to wage this battle. But
while today some may be prisoners of war, a lifetime of democracy
keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can imprison the
love of liberty that beats in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your parents, our troops in
the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so that you may
know the blessings of peace tomorrow.
Seeing such strong families here today -- knowing the
support you have received from this community -- is good for the
soul and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each
and every one of you. I draw courage from your forbearance, and
I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon every soldier and
sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast Guardsman -- every man and
woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
91 JAN 31 Jafuary631, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Visit with Troop
Families/Seymour Johnson AFB
Fine set of remarks that should resonate very well with
this audience. We have no comments from a policy standpoint.
CC: Phillip D. Brady
Document No. 208938
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(01/30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
X
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Grant/Blymire
91 JAN 30 PM 7: 55
January 30, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME?
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
as well as the 68th and the 916th Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
the most decorated units in the Air Force, // with an outstanding
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
to them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this unit are part of the most motivated, most
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. 11 They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
2
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace, and I can tell
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
servicemen and women. That applause wasn't for me -- it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
cases, their lives in this battle. But while the enemy has
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your dads and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America."
Seeing such strong families here today is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
Document No. 208938
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 JAN 31 A8:15 A8:
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(01/30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE N/U
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
partial
bootles
PORTER
N/V
DARMAN N/C
ROGICH
N/C
>
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
>
DEMAREST
X
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY N/C
HOLIDAY N/U
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Grant/Blymire
January 30, 1991
A: FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
Goldsboro RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME? 30 Am
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
your refueling units,
as well as^ the 68th and the 916th. Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
tunbo
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
I am paud to share this stage with
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
these Canbe.
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
from Seymour JOHNSON
The factical
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
fighters, the refuelers, medical personnel civil engineers, the
?
the most decorated units in the Air Force, 11 with an outstanding
police
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
all of
to them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
base
best
and women of this unit are part of the most motivated, most
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
Because
country -- bar none. // They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
insert
A
A
B
2
difficult and demanding but
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace and I can tell
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
stand with
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet, Supreme Court
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
heartfelt
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
servicemen and womenx That applause wasn't for me it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
Voluntaruly set aside
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
to wage
today some may be
cases, their lives in this battle. But while the enemy has
P.O.W.'s
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
will
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
that heats
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
parents
here today. I want you to know that your dads and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
I know what it is that you have Hered the
nation. I understand what it is I have asked
of you.
-- knowng the support you
have received from this
community -
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America.' "
Seeing such strong families here today is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you, for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
While I'm here, I would be remiss if I did not salute what U.S.
and coalition airmen have accomplished. Air superiority is an
established fact. The Iraqui Air Force is no longer a factor.
And I know that this base is very proud of the way we have used
that superiority to go after Saddam's missiles of terror.
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
P.01
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
MEMORANDUM
30 January 1991
To: Bob Simon (456-7750)
TO 92024566218
FM: Ellen Piazza (703 695-1323)
A package of the material given to Mary A
Kate was faxed to you last night.
revised POW/MIA insert (revised as of
31 Jan, 0800) is attached. It and
other discussion of the POWS/MIAS (other
than name, age, rank and service) is
not releasable in a public speech. It's
for private discussions between the
President and families. Pls call with
questions.
FROM 1 202 697 7376
Ellen
01-31-1991 08:12AM
&:80 10 NAC 16
01-31-1991 08:13AM
FROM 1 202 697 7376
TO 92024566218
P.02
POW/MIA Insert
Col Dave Eberly and Maj Tom Griffith are
Prisoners of War. Maj Tom Koritz and Maj Donnie
Holland are Missing in Action. We can take comfort
in the fact that all are superstars trained and ready
for combat.
Tom Koritz Is one of five pilots in the Air Force
who is also a flight surgeon. It's tough to be a
fighter pilot and a physician, but Tom's love of
flying Is rivaled by his love of healing. He excels at
both.
Donnie Holland and Tom Griffith rank among the
few Weapon System Officers to fly the F-15E. Only
the very best from a selection of highly qualified
officers are chosen for this Job.
Dave Eberly, as Director of Operations for the
4th, was out in front as always when his people flew
Into combat. He's a born leader and warrior.
These four of Seymour's finest rank among
American's most heroic and resourceful military
officers. That doesn't keep us from hurting for
them and for Julie Koritz, Cindy Holland, Liz Griffith,
Barb Eberly, and all the children. But it offers us
confidence and hope for their futures.
Transition Into section on how Saddam will be
accountable.
TOTAL P.02
Document No. 208938
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 JAN 31 All: 25
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(01/30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
minion
comments
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Grant/Blymire
91 JAN 30 PM 7:55
January 30, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME?
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
as well as the 68th and the 916th Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
these can be.
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
the
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
the most decorated units in the Air Force, // with an outstanding
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
to them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this unit are part of the most motivated, most
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. // Because They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
a 2 different and but demanding
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace, and I can tell
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
stand with
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet, Syreme
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
Count,
heartfilt
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
servicemen and women. That applause wasn't for me -- it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
cases, their lives in this battle. But while today Sones the enemy and has may be
P.O.W.S
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
will
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your dads parents and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America. If
Seeing such strong families here today is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
; 1-31-91 :12:11PM ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
2024566218:# 3
Document No. 208938
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
If IJANN331 AHIF: Po
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(0) /30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
V
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
No Comment 1/31/91
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Document No. 208938
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 JAN 31 All: 02
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(01/30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
R
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
NO COMMENTS. THANKS.
HOLLY WILLIAMSON
NW
1-31-91
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Document No. 208938
HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 JAN31 A10 WHITE
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(01/30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE: no comment
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Grant/Blymire
91 JAN 30 PM 7: 55
January 30, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME?
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" 11
as well as the 68th and the 916th Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
the most decorated units in the Air Force, // with an outstanding
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
to them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this unit are part of the most motivated, most
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. 11 They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
2
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace, and I can tell
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
servicemen and women. That applause wasn't for me -- it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
cases, their lives in this battle. But while the enemy has
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your dads and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America."
Seeing such strong families here today is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
Haydening
Grant/Blymire
91 JAN 30 Pil 7:55 91 JAN 31 A10: 33
January 30, 1991
A: FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME?
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
(oura grank,
your refueling units,
as well as the 68th and the 916th, Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
^
ones a
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
from Sepmour Johnson
The lactical
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
fighters th refulers, medical personnel and civil engineer, records
the mos't decorated units in the Air Force, H with an outstanding
police
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
to and them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this base unit are part of the most motivated, most best
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. // They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
insert
We are now more than two weeks into Operation Desert Storm. My
report to you today is that we are on course and on schedule.
Day by day, night by night, Iraq's capacity to wage war is being
systematically destroyed by U.S. and coalition military forces.
Our investment, our training, and our planning are paying off.
Yes, achieving our goals will require time and sacrifice, but we
will prevail. And when we do, we will have taught a dangerous
tyrant and those who would follow in his footsteps that there is
no place for lawless aggression in this critical region and in
the new world order that we seek to create.
OF terror.
2
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace, and I can tell
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
Iraqi air Force IS no longer a factor. And I Know that this base is very proud of the way we
have used that superiority to 90 aFter Saddam's missiles
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
While I'm here, I would be remiss if I did
not salute what U.S. and coalition airmen have
accomplished. Air superiority is an established Fact. The
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
servicemen and women. That applause wasn't for me -- it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
cases, their lives in this battle. But while the enemy has
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
that beats
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your dads and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
I know what it is that you have offered
the nation. I understand what it is of have
asked of you.
knowing the support received you from have the local community --
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America."
Seeing such strong families here today /is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
Document No. 208938
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 JAN 31 A9: 55
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(01/30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
X
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
OK S.R
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Grant/Blymire
91 JAN 30 PM 7: 55
January 30, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME?
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
as well as the 68th and the 916th Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
the most decorated units in the Air Force, // with an outstanding
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
to them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this unit are part of the most motivated, most
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. 11 They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
2
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace, and I can tell
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
servicemen and women. That applause wasn't for me -- it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
cases, their lives in this battle. But while the enemy has
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your dads and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America."
Seeing such strong families here today is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
91 JAN STAMP A9: 42 1VED
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAT STAFFING DOCUMENT
91 J: 31 A7: A 45
SYSTEM LOG NUMBER:
0760
ACTION OFFICER: HAYDEN
DUE: 10:00AM, 31 JAN
Prepare Memo For Scowcroft/Gates
Appropriate Action
Prepare Memo For Cicconi
to WINSTON W/ "URGENT
Prepare Memo for
Prepare Memo SCOWCROFT
4970
CONCURRENCES/COMMENTS*
PHONE* to action officer at ext.
Concur FYI
Concur FYI
Concur fyi
Barth
Hutchings
Poneman
Basora
Jackson
Popadiuk
Beers
Johnson
Pryce
Broome
Kanter
Rademaker
Burns
Kitchen
Rice
Canas
Kuehne
Rostow
Charles
Lampley
Tilley
Coulson
Lundsager
Tobey
Davis
Melby
Van Eron
Deal
Menan
Watson
Dorminey
Merchant
Welch
Dyke
Miller
Whitley
Frasure
Needles
Wilson
Fry
O'Leary
Working
Gordon
Paal
Zelikow
Gompert
Pacelli
Haass
Pavitt
Hayden
Pilling
INFORMATION Sittmann
Hill
Exec Sec Desk
Scowcroft (advance)
Gates (advance)
Secretariat
COMMENTS
ok as changed
Hanss
Logged By AC
Return to Secretariat
379 OEOB
0760
Document No. 208938
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 01/30/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 01/31/91 NOON
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES/SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB
(01/30 draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
WINSTON
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Chriss Winston,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than noon on Thursday, 01/31, with
a copy to my office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
91 JAN 30 PM 7: 55
Grant/Blymire
January 30, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME?
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
as well as the 68th and the 916th Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
the most decorated units in the Air Force, // with an outstanding
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
to them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this unit are part of the most motivated, most
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. 11 They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
2
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace, and I can tell
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
husbands and wives --- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
servicemen and women. That applause wasn't for me -- it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
cases, their lives in this battle. But while the enemy has
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your dads and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
While I am here, I would be remiss if I did not
salute when US. and Coa tim airmen have accomplisher
Air superiority is An establish fact; the Irag;
air Pree is no longer afactor.
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America."
Seeing such strong families here today is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
Bobsimon
Grant/Blymire
91 JAN 30 PM 7: 55
January 30, 1991
A:FAMILIES
BRIEF REMARKS: VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE
GOLDSBORO
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991
TIME?
It's great to be here at Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the
4th Tactical Fighter Wing // the "Rocketeers" and the "Chiefs" //
Air
as well as the 68th and the 916th Aerial Refueling Wings. // And
let me say what an unbelieveable job Colonel Wray is doing here
on base // while your Wing Commander, Colonel Hornburg, is
deployed with Desert Storm.
I've just arrived from the Marine Air Station at. Cherry
Point and we're heading to Fort Stewart next. I want to tell you
how pleased I am to be able to spend some time meeting and
talking with you -- especially the kids --because I know how
tough times are. The waiting. The uncertainty. The not
knowing. But each of you do know this: what a phenomenal job the
men and women serving the 4th Tactical Wing are doing. // One of
the most decorated units in the Air Force, // with an outstanding
combat record. // I want you to know how grateful the nation is
to them -- and to you -- and to share with you a few thoughts.
I probably don't need to tell you that the brave servicemen
and women of this unit are part of the most motivated, most
educated, and best equipped armed forces in the history of this
country -- bar none. // They are doing the hard work of
freedom, and the cause of freedom will prevail. //
2
Our mission in the Gulf is to secure peace, and I can tell
you our troops will not be asked to accomplish their mission with
one hand tied behind their back. And know something else -- your
husbands and wives -- your moms and dads -- will not be in the
Gulf one day longer than absolutely necessary. //
And finally, I want each of you and all our troops to know
that the American people are behind them. I hope you had a
chance to watch the State of the Union address, because you would
have seen a very moving scene: the entire Congress, Cabinet,
Joint Chiefs and diplomatic corps rose to their feet in a
prolonged, roaring tribute to the troops. If only you could have
felt the thunder of the applause, and sensed the emotion that
filled that chamber. And the cheering was followed by two more
standing ovations for you, the courageous families of our
servicemen and women. That applause wasn't for me -- it was for
you and for our troops. And that's the way it should have been.
I know it's been tough here at Seymour Johnson. Members of
this fighting unit have given their freedom and even, in some
cases, their lives in this battle. But while the enemy has
captured some members of our fighting force, a lifetime of
democracy keeps their spirit free. No foreign dictator can
imprison the love of liberty deep in the heart of every American.
Before I finish, I'd like to say something to all the kids
here today. I want you to know that your dads and moms, our
troops in the Gulf, are enduring the hardships of war today so
3
that you may know the blessings of peace tomorrow. Each one of
you can be proud to say, "My dad or my mom is serving America."
Seeing such strong families here today is good for the soul
-- and proves the strength of America's spirit. I thank each and
every one of you for your tremendous support. I draw courage from
your forbearance, and I ask God's blessing upon you all and upon
every soldier and sailor, every Marine, airman and Coast
Guardsman -- every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf.
Thank you and God bless the United States of America.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 31, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
RONALD E. VONLEMBKE
ASSISTANT COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Visit with Troop
Families/Seymour Johnson AFB
Pursuant to your request, Counsel's Office has reviewed the
above-referenced matter and has no objection to the draft
presidential remarks.
Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.
CC: Phillip D. Brady
VISIT WITH TROOP FAMILIES \ SEYMOUR JOHNSON A.F.B.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1991 \ 11:30 A.M.
It's GREAT TO BE HERE AT SEYMOUR JOHNSON AFB, HOME
OF THE 4TH TACTICAL FIGHTER WING // THE "ROCKETEERS"
AND THE "CHIEFS" // AS WELL AS YOUR REFUELING UNITS,
THE 68TH AND THE 916TH. // AND LET ME SAY WHAT AN
UNBELIEVEABLE JOB COLONEL "JUMBO" WRAY IS DOING HERE ON
BASE // WHILE YOUR WING COMMANDER, COLONEL HORNBURG, IS
DEPLOYED WITH DESERT STORM. I AM ALSO GLAD TO SEE
GOVERNOR MARTIN HERE WITH US TODAY, AS WELL AS
CONGRESSMAN LANCASTER AND MAYOR PLUNK.
- 2 -
I'D LIKE TO THANK THE MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE OF THE
WAYNE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR HOSTING THIS FINE
PICNIC.
I AM PROUD TO SHARE THIS STAGE WITH THE SECRETARY
OF THE AIR FORCE, DR. DON RICE AND HIS WIFE; AS WELL AS
THE AIR FORCE CHIEF OF STAFF, GENERAL TONY McPeaK AND
HIS WIFE. ///
I'VE JUST ARRIVED FROM THE MARINE AIR STATION AT
CHERRY POINT AND WE'RE HEADING TO FORT STEWART NEXT.
- 3 -
I WANT TO TELL YOU HOW PLEASED I AM TO BE ABLE To SPEND
SOME TIME MEETING AND TALKING WITH YOU -- ESPECIALLY
THE KIDS -- BECAUSE I KNOW HOW TOUGH THESE TIMES CAN
BE. THE WAITING. THE UNCERTAINTY. THE NOT KNOWING.
BUT EACH OF YOU DO KNOW THIS: THE MEN AND WOMEN FROM
SEYMOUR JOHNSON ARE DOING A PHENOMENAL JOB. // THE
TACTICAL FIGHTERS, THE REFUELERS, THE MEDICAL
PERSONNEL, THE CIVIL ENGINEERS, THE SECURITY POLICE. //
- 4 -
I WANT YOU To KNOW HOW GRATEFUL THE NATION IS TO ALL OF
THEM -- AND TO YOU -- AND TO SHARE WITH YOU A FEW
THOUGHTS.
I PROBABLY DON'T NEED TO TELL YOU THAT THE BRAVE
SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN OF THIS BASE ARE PART OF THE MOST
MOTIVATED, BEST EDUCATED, AND BEST EQUIPPED ARMED
FORCES IN THE HISTORY OF THIS COUNTRY -- BAR NONE. //
BECAUSE THEY ARE DOING THE HARD WORK OF FREEDOM, THE
CAUSE OF FREEDOM WILL PREVAIL. //
- 5 -
WE ARE NOW MORE THAN TWO WEEKS INTO OPERATION
DESERT STORM. AND I AM HAPPY TO SAY, WE ARE ON COURSE
AND ON SCHEDULE. As EACH DAY PASSES, IRAQ'S WAR
MACHINE IS BEING SYSTEMATICALLY DESTROYED BY OUR ALLIED
MILITARY FORCES. OUR INVESTMENT, OUR TRAINING, AND OUR
PLANNING ARE PAYING OFF. SACRIFICES STILL LAY AHEAD,
BUT WE WILL SUCCEED. //
i
- 6 -
AND WHEN WE DO, WE WILL HAVE TAUGHT SADDAM HUSSEIN --
AND ALL OTHERS LIKE HIM -- THAT THERE IS NO PLACE FOR
LAWLESS AGGRESSION IN THE REGION OR IN THE NEW WORLD
ORDER THAT WE ENVISION.
WHILE I'M HERE, I WOULD BE REMISS IF I DID NOT
SALUTE WHAT U.S. AND COALITION AIRMEN HAVE
ACCOMPLISHED. AIR SUPERIORITY IS AN ESTABLISHED FACT.
THE IRAQI AIR FORCE IS NO LONGER A FACTOR.
- 7 -
AND I KNOW THAT THIS BASE IS VERY PROUD OF THE WAY WE
HAVE USED THAT SUPERIORITY TO GO AFTER SADDAM'S
MISSILES OF TERROR.
OUR MISSION IN THE GULF IS DIFFICULT AND DEMANDING,
BUT I CAN TELL YOU OUR TROOPS WILL NOT BE ASKED TO
ACCOMPLISH THEIR MISSION WITH ONE HAND TIED BEHIND
THEIR BACK. AND KNOW SOMETHING ELSE -- YOUR HUSBANDS
AND WIVES -- YOUR MOMS AND DADS -- WILL NOT BE IN THE
GULF ONE DAY LONGER THAN ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. //
- 8 -
AND FINALLY, I WANT EACH OF YOU AND ALL OUR TROOPS
TO KNOW THAT THE AMERICAN PEOPLE STAND WITH THEM. I
HOPE YOU HAD A CHANCE To WATCH THE STATE OF THE UNION
ADDRESS, BECAUSE YOU WOULD HAVE SEEN A VERY MOVING
SCENE: THE ENTIRE CONGRESS, CABINET, SUPREME COURT,
JOINT CHIEFS AND DIPLOMATIC CORPS ROSE TO THEIR FEET IN
A PROLONGED, HEARTFELT TRIBUTE TO THE TROOPS. IF ONLY
YOU COULD HAVE FELT THE THUNDER OF THE APPLAUSE, AND
SENSED THE EMOTION THAT FILLED THAT CHAMBER.
- 9 -
AND THE CHEERING WAS FOLLOWED BY TWO MORE STANDING
OVATIONS FOR YOU, THE COURAGEOUS FAMILIES OF OUR
SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN -- IT WAS FOR YOU AND FOR OUR
TROOPS. AND THAT'S THE WAY IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN.
I KNOW IT'S BEEN TOUGH HERE AT SEYMOUR JOHNSON. I
KNOW WHAT IT IS THAT YOU HAVE OFFERED THE NATION. I
UNDERSTAND WHAT IT IS I HAVE ASKED OF YOU. MEMBERS OF
THIS FIGHTING UNIT HAVE VOLUNTARILY SET ASIDE THEIR
FREEDOM TO WAGE THIS BATTLE.
- 10 -
BUT WHILE TODAY SOME MAY BE PRISONERS OF WAR, A
LIFETIME OF DEMOCRACY KEEPS THEIR SPIRIT FREE. No
FOREIGN DICTATOR CAN IMPRISON THE LOVE OF LIBERTY THAT
BEATS IN THE HEART OF EVERY AMERICAN.
BEFORE I FINISH, I'D LIKE TO SAY SOMETHING TO ALL
THE KIDS HERE TODAY. I WANT YOU To KNOW THAT YOUR
PARENTS, OUR TROOPS IN THE GULF, ARE ENDURING THE
HARDSHIPS OF WAR TODAY so THAT YOU MAY KNOW THE
BLESSINGS OF PEACE TOMORROW.
- 11 -
SEEING SUCH STRONG FAMILIES HERE TODAY -- KNOWING
THE SUPPORT YOU HAVE RECEIVED FROM THIS COMMUNITY -- IS
GOOD FOR THE SOUL AND PROVES THE STRENGTH OF AMERICA'S
SPIRIT. I THANK EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU. I DRAW
COURAGE FROM YOUR FORBEARANCE, AND I ASK GOD'S BLESSING
UPON YOU ALL AND UPON EVERY SOLDIER AND SAILOR, EVERY
MARINE, AIRMAN AND COAST GUARDSMAN -- EVERY MAN AND
WOMAN NOW SERVING IN THE PERSIAN GULF.
- 12 -
THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA.
###