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Christmas Tree Lighting 12/12/91 [OA 6040]
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Christmas Tree Lighting 12/12/91 [OA 6040]
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George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
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Speechwriting, White House Office of
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Speech File Draft Files
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Chron File, 1989-1993
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13594
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13594-008
Folder Title:
Christmas Tree Lighting 12/12/91 [OA 6040]
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26
17
5
2
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Vsent
numm
FACSIMILE TRANSMITTAL SHEET
DATE Dec 12, 1991
TO
Gary Walters
FAX NUMBER
6255
OFFICE NUMBER
NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 7
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
COMMENTS FROM Nancy Benson-Speechwriting
For the 'Signer"
OFFICE NUMBER
456-2930
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING INTRODUCTION \ ELLIPSE
THANK YOU, AND WELCOME TO THIS WONDERFUL WASHINGTON
TRADITION. I'M PARTICULARLY PROUD TONIGHT TO HAVE SOME
VERY SPECIAL FRIENDS HERE WITH ME TO HELP LIGHT OUR
NATION'S CHRISTMAS TREE. AMERICA'S PRAYERS WERE
ANSWERED WHEN THESE MEN CAME HOME TO US. So A SPECIAL
WELCOME TO: TERRY ANDERSON AND MADELEINE BASSIL; ALANN
AND VIRGINIA STEEN; THOMAS AND JEAN SUTHERLAND; JOSEPH
AND ELHAM CICIPPIO; AND JESSE AND BADER TURNER. GOD
BLESS YOU AND ENJOY THE SHOW.
#
#
#
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING \ THE ELLIPSE
THURSDAY 12, 1991 \ 6:00 P.M.
THANK YOU, MR. RILEY [JOE]. IT'S GOOD TO SEE
SECRETARY LUJAN AND so MANY OTHER SPECIAL GUESTS. AND
A WARM THANK YOU TO MARILYN HORNE, THE TUCSON Boys
CHORUS, THE NAVY BAND, JOE WILLIAMS, THE GATLIN
BROTHERS, AND ALL THE PERFORMERS WHO'VE BROUGHT THE
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT TO WASHINGTON TONIGHT.
AND THANKS TO SANTA. WELL, YOUR BIG NIGHT'S COMING
UP. AND PEOPLE THINK I TRAVEL A LOT. 11
- 2 -
I DON'T HAVE TO ASK THIS SANTA [WILLARD Scott] WHAT THE
WEATHER WILL BE LIKE CHRISTMAS EVE: HE'S PREDICTING IT.
THIS IS A VERY SPECIAL NIGHT. I LOOK AT YOU BRAVE
MEN AND ON BEHALF OF YOUR LOVING COUNTRY I SAY,
FINALLY, TO TERRY ANDERSON AND THOMAS SUTHERLAND AND
JOSEPH CICIPPIO AND ALANN STEEN AND JESSE TURNER AND
THE OTHERS NOT HERE -- WELCOME HOME. WELCOME HOME TO
THIS, THE MOST GENEROUS, MOST PROUD, MOST FREE NATION
ON THE FACE OF THE EARTH. III
- 3 -
AND JAVIER PEREZ DE CUELLAR AND GIANDOMENICO Picco,
WHO JUST JOINED US ALL AT THE WHITE HOUSE, DID GOD'S
WORK. THEY HELPED BRING OUR BROTHERS BACK. THEY MADE
TRUE THE WORDS OF ISAIAH, FOUND IN THE FIRST BOOK THE
CAPTORS ALLOWED INTO THESE MEN'S CELL: "THE PEOPLE
THAT WALKED IN DARKNESS HAVE SEEN A GREAT LIGHT; THEY
THAT DWELL IN THE LAND OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH, UPON
THEM HATH THE LIGHT SHINED." III
- 4 -
It's MORE THAN JUST APPROPRIATE -- IT'S REALLY
ALMOST MIRACULOUS -- THAT WE CAN CELEBRATE WITH THESE
FIVE THE LIGHTING OF OUR NATION'S CHRISTMAS TREE. THE
IDEA IS so MOVING BECAUSE THESE MEN HAVE COME OUT OF
DARKNESS INTO THE BRIGHT LIGHT OF LIBERTY. 11
As YOU HEAR THESE REMARKABLE MEN TALK, YOU REALIZE
THEY WERE NEVER LOST IN THAT DARKNESS OF SORROW,
ANGUISH AND DESPAIR.
- 5 -
EVEN AT THE WORST MOMENTS, THEY WERE GUIDED BY A
STUBBORN SPARK THAT CRUELTY COULDN'T EXTINGUISH -- THE
SPARK OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT.
THEIR PRECIOUS GIFT To US IS To REKINDLE OUR
NATION'S BELIEF IN THE LIGHT OF FAITH -- AND OUR BELIEF
IN OURSELVES.
- 6 -
WHEN TERRY AND ToM AND JOSEPH AND ALANN AND JESSE
LIGHT OUR NATION'S TREE TONIGHT, THAT ACT WILL BE A
REMINDER OF WHAT THEY AND THEIR COMPANIONS, LIVING AND
GONE, HAVE ALREADY DONE TO LIGHT THIS NATION'S SOUL.
THERE HAVE BEEN SPECIAL GUESTS AT THESE CEREMONIES
BEFORE -- EVEN WINSTON CHURCHILL HELPED TO LIGHT THE
TREE DURING WWII. BUT THIS NATION HAS NEVER BEEN
HONORED BY THE PRESENCE OF MEN WHOSE SPIRIT MEANT MORE
TO US. YOUR FORTITUDE, HUMOR AND GENEROSITY TELL US OF
THE TRUE MEANING OF THIS SEASON.
- 7 -
AT THIS TIME OF YEAR ESPECIALLY, THESE MEN REMIND
US THAT THE GLITZ AND GLAMOR OF MATERIAL THINGS DON'T
MATTER. THE COURAGE, FAITH, AND LOVE THESE MEN EMBODY
ARE ALL WE NEED TO RECOGNIZE WHAT'S REALLY IMPORTANT.
THE WAY THEY HAVE RETURNED TO THEIR FAMILIES AND TO
US PROVES THEY LIVE BY THE CHALLENGE OF THAT BEAUTIFUL
PRAYER OF ST. FRANCIS: "GRANT THAT I MAY NOT SO MUCH
SEEK To BE CONSOLED AS TO CONSOLE. To BE UNDERSTOOD AS
TO UNDERSTAND. To BE LOVED AS TO LOVE.
I
- 8 -
WHERE THERE IS DESPAIR, LET ME SOW HOPE. WHERE THERE
IS HATRED, LOVE. AND WHERE THERE IS DARKNESS, EVER
LIGHT. " 111
WHEN HISTORY REMEMBERS CHRISTMAS 1991, LET IT
REMEMBER THAT TONIGHT WE GATHERED WITH MEN WHO SHOW US
THAT THIS IS A SEASON OF SPIRIT, NOT A CELEBRATION OF
PLENTY.
LET HISTORY REMEMBER THAT TONIGHT WE STOOD WITH
THESE TRUE HEROES AND ASKED FOR GOD'S BLESSING ON THIS
WORLD.
- 9 -
FINALLY, IN THE WORDS OF THE CAROL WE'LL SING IN A
FEW MINUTES, LET HISTORY REMEMBER THAT AT CHRISTMAS
1991, THIS NATION UNITED TO ASK GOD FOR PEACE ON EARTH,
GOOD WILL TO ALL.
GOD BLESS THESE MEN, THIS WONDERFUL COUNTRY, AND
NOW LET'S LIGHT OUR TREE.
# #
#
Document No. 29/55/ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 DEC 10 P6: 20
DATE: 12/10/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
---
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
THURSDAY, DEC. 12, 1991 - 5:45
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SUNUNU
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
PORTER ROSE
DEMAREST
FIRESTONE
MCBRIDE
FITZWATER
GRAY
SNOW
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
31 DEC 10 P1:51
December 10, 1991
MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW instiforts
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE BH
On Thursday, December 12, you will once again light the
National Christmas Tree at the Ellipse. (The ceremony starts at
5 p.m.; the lighting will actually be about 5:45 p.m.) Ten to
twelve thousand people are expected.
Four of the recently returned hostages will be taking part
in the treelighting with you. The remarks (5 minutes, cards)
focus on these men, and the symbolism of their journey from
darkness into light.
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 10, 1991 1 p.m.
LIGHTS Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
The Ellipse 5:45 p.m.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS] And thanks to Santa. Well, your big
night's coming up. And people think I travel a lot. 11 I don't
have to ask this Santa [Willard Scott] what the weather will be
like Christmas Eve -- he's predicting it. 11
This is a very special night. I look to you brave men and
on behalf of your loving country I say, finally, to Terry
Anderson and Thomas Sutherland and Joseph Cicippio and Alann
Steen and the others not here -- welcome home. Welcome home to
this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the face
of the earth.
And to Javier Perez de Cuellar and Giandomenico Picco -- you
have done God's work. You have brought our brothers back. You
have made true the words of Isaiah, found in the first book the
captors allowed into these men's cell: "The people that walked
in darkness have seen a great light; they that dwell in the land
of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined."
It's more than just appropriate -- it's really almost
miraculous -- that we can celebrate with our returned brothers
the lighting of our nation's Christmas tree. The idea is so
moving because these men have come out of darkness into the
bright light of liberty.
As you hear these remarkable men talk, you realize they were
never lost in that darkness of sorrow, anguish and despair. Even
2
at the worst moments, they were guided by a stubborn spark that
cruelty couldn't extinguish -- the spark of the human spirit.
Their precious gift to us is to rekindle our nation's belief in
the light of faith -- and our belief in ourselves.
When Terry and Tom and Joseph and Alann light our nation's
tree tonight, that act will be a reminder of what they and their
companions, living and gone, have already done -- light this
nation's soul.
There have been special guests at these ceremonies before -
- even Winston Churchill helped to light the tree during WWII.
But this nation has never been honored by the presence of men
whose spirit meant more to us. Your fortitude, humor and
generosity tell us of the true meaning of this season.
We now have new symbols etched in our national memory.
We'll never forget Peggy Say running to embrace her brother,
Terry Anderson. or Tom Sutherland's infectious, exultant smile.
or Alann Steen waving a tiny American flag from a balcony in
Wiesbaden. or stories of years spent in a living grave that
these men transformed into "The Church of the Locked Door." "
At this time of year especially, these images remind us that
the glitz and glamor of material things don't matter. The
courage, faith, and love these men embody are all we need to
recognize what's really important.
The way they have returned to their families and to us
proves they live by the challenge of that beautiful prayer of St.
Francis: "Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to
3
console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to
love. Where there is despair, let me SOW hope. Where there is
hatred, love. And where there is darkness, ever light."
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we gathered with men who show us that this is a season of
spirit, not a celebration of plenty. Let history remember that
tonight we stood with these true heroes and asked for God's
blessing on this world. Finally, in the words of the carol we'll
sing in a few minutes, let history remember that at Christmas
1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth, good will
to all.
God bless these men, this wonderful country, and now let's
light our tree.
######
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING INTRODUCTION \ ELLIPSE
THANK YOU, AND WELCOME TO THIS WONDERFUL WASHINGTON
TRADITION. I'M PARTICULARLY PROUD TONIGHT TO HAVE SOME
VERY SPECIAL FRIENDS HERE WITH ME TO HELP LIGHT OUR
NATION'S CHRISTMAS TREE. AMERICA'S PRAYERS WERE
ANSWERED WHEN THESE MEN CAME HOME TO US. So A SPECIAL
WELCOME TO: TERRY ANDERSON AND MADELEINE BASSIL; ALANN
AND VIRGINIA STEEN; THOMAS AND JEAN SUTHERLAND; JOSEPH
AND ELHAM CICIPPIO; AND JESSE AND BADER TURNER. GOD
BLESS YOU ALL.
#
#
#
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING INTRODUCTION 1 ELLIPSE
THANK YOU, AND WELCOME TO THIS WONDERFUL WASHINGTON
TRADITION. I'M PARTICULARLY PROUD TONIGHT TO HAVE SOME
VERY SPECIAL FRIENDS HERE WITH ME TO HELP LIGHT OUR
NATION'S CHRISTMAS TREE. AMERICA'S PRAYERS WERE
ANSWERED WHEN THESE MEN CAME HOME TO US. So A SPECIAL
WELCOME TO: TERRY ANDERSON AND MADELEINE BASSIL; ALANN
AND VIRGINIA STEEN; THOMAS AND JEAN SUTHERLAND; JOSEPH
AND ELHAM CICIPPIO; AND JESSE AND BADER TURNER. GOD
BLESS YOU ALL.
#
#
#
3-5 mn.
BR BR sign proc.
Bathwell
Linduse TELEPRONE 400
400 inviled
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING INTRODUCTION \ ELLIPSE
THANK YOU, AND WELCOME TO THIS WONDERFUL WASHINGTON
TRADITION. I'M PARTICULARLY PROUD TONIGHT TO HAVE SOME
VERY SPECIAL FRIENDS HERE WITH ME TO HELP LIGHT OUR
NATION'S CHRISTMAS TREE. AMERICA'S PRAYERS WERE
ANSWERED WHEN THESE MEN CAME HOME TO US. So A SPECIAL
WELCOME TO: TERRY ANDERSON AND MADELEINE BASSIL; ALANN
AND VIRGINIA STEEN; THOMAS AND JEAN SUTHERLAND; JOSEPH
AND ELHAM CICIPPIO; AND JESSE AND BADER TURNER. GOD
BLESS YOU ALL.
#
#
#
Document No. 291551ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 NOV 5 All: 18
DATE: 12/6/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: MONDAY, 12/9/91 2:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
SUBJECT:
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1991 THE ELLIPSE
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SUNUNU
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
\
DARMAN N/C
PORTER
N/V
BRADY
ROGICH
A
BROMLEY
N/C
SMITH
>
CARD
MCBRIDE
>
DEMAREST
PORTER ROSE
FIRESTONE
FITZWATER
GRAY Jones Renquist N/U
>
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 2:00 p.m., MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, with a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 5, 1991 5 p.m.
28
LIGHTS Draft Two
01 DEC 6
AlO
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
The Ellipse
Good evening, everyone. [ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS] and thanks to
Santa. Well, your big night's coming up. And people think I
travel a lot. I don't have to ask this Santa what the weather
will be like Christmas Eve -- he predicted it.
A special welcome home from this entire country to all the
men who were hostages so long and are finally back: finally home
in this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the
face of the earth. We've seen some unforgettable triumphs for
the human spirit these last couple of years. Tonight, let's say a
silent prayer that one Christmas we'll gather under this tree
able to celebrate freedom and peace embracing the entire world.
You know, Christmas is the only day when the world comes to
a stop in honor of a single person. What a moving reminder of
the power of one life -- of one man who stood for faith, hope and
charity. And, as He said, "the greatest of these is charity."
Charity. The joy of friendship and helping others -- and the
very idea this year's Pageant of Peace celebrates.
When we light this tree tonight, let it also in a very real
way shine a beacon on the American heart -- a glowing reminder
that this is a nation based on the ideal of charity -- of
goodness, generosity, family, and simple kindness.
When we illuminate this tree, when we turn this cold
darkness into warm light, let's remember that we can do that in a
2
concrete way in our own neighborhoods. Tonight we join together
and turn this into a Tree of Light. Every American can turn each
hometown into a Community of Light, by reaching out to a friend
or stranger in need. By working in our own neighborhoods we can
make sure that no elderly person goes to bed hungry -- that no
homeless person spends another despairing night on the streets -
- that no child lacks the birthright of love. Then -- one
Community of Light at a time -- we will turn America into a
Nation of Light.
The way we will do that is to follow tonight's theme; follow
the lesson of the greatest teacher who ever lived. We'll turn the
magic of Christmas into the magic of national redemption through
Christ's example of charity -- caring for others out of love.
This is a special season -- rich in meaning for many faiths.
Last week at a ceremony at the White House I shared in the
beginning of Hanukkah, the first day of the lighting of the
menorah. In a couple of weeks the candles of Kwanza will be lit.
And I'm here today to help light our National Christmas Tree.
It's a great tradition, because this tree stands for our nation's
unity and our nation's hope. You know, the switch I'll use to
light the tree is the same one that's been used by every
President since Coolidge started this ceremony 68 years ago.
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we asked for God's blessing on this world. That tonight
we asked that God's grace be granted to our brothers and sisters
in need. And, finally, in the words of the carol we'll sing
3
together in a few minutes: Let it be remembered that on
Christmas 1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth,
good will to all.
God bless you all, and now let's light this beautiful tree.
####
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
December 10, 1991
MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW indiforts
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE BH
On Thursday, December 12, you will once again light the
National Christmas Tree at the Ellipse. (The ceremony starts at
5 p.m.; the lighting will actually be about 5:45 p.m.) Ten to
twelve thousand people are expected.
Four of the recently returned hostages will be taking part
in the treelighting with you. The remarks (5 minutes, cards)
focus on these men, and the symbolism of their journey from
darkness into light.
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 10, 1991 1 p.m.
LIGHTS Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
NW
The Ellipse 5:45 p.m. 6:00p.m
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS] And thanks to Santa. Well, your big
night's coming up. And people think I travel a lot. 11 I don't
have to ask this Santa [Willard Scott] what the weather will be
like Christmas Eve -- he's predicting it. 11
This is a very special night. I look to you brave men and
on behalf of your loving country I say, finally, to Terry
Anderson and Thomas Sutherland and Joseph Cicippio and Alann
Steen and the others not here -- welcome home. Welcome home to
this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the face
of the earth.
And to Javier Perez de Cuellar and Giandomenico Picco -- you
have done God's work. You have brought our brothers back. You
have made true the words of Isaiah, found in the first book the
captors allowed into these men's cell: "The people that walked
in darkness have seen a great light; they that dwell in the land
of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined."
It's more than just appropriate -- it's really almost
miraculous -- that we can celebrate with our returned brothers
the lighting of our nation's Christmas tree. The idea is so
moving because these men have come out of darkness into the
bright light of liberty.
As you hear these remarkable men talk, you realize they were
never lost in that darkness of sorrow, anguish and despair. Even
2
at the worst moments, they were guided by a stubborn spark that
cruelty couldn't extinguish -- the spark of the human spirit.
Their precious gift to us is to rekindle our nation's belief in
the light of faith -- and our belief in ourselves.
When Terry and Tom and Joseph and Alann light our nation's
tree tonight, that act will be a reminder of what they and their
companions, living and gone, have already done -- light this
nation's soul.
There have been special guests at these ceremonies before -
- even Winston Churchill helped to light the tree during WWII.
But this nation has never been honored by the presence of men
whose spirit meant more to us. Your fortitude, humor and
generosity tell us of the true meaning of this season.
We now have new symbols etched in our national memory.
We'll never forget Peggy Say running to embrace her brother,
Terry Anderson. Or Tom Sutherland's infectious, exultant smile.
or Alann Steen waving a tiny American flag from a balcony in
Wiesbaden. or stories of years spent in a living grave that
these men transformed into "The Church of the Locked Door.' "
At this time of year especially, these images remind us that
the glitz and glamor of material things don't matter. The
courage, faith, and love these men embody are all we need to
recognize what's really important.
The way they have returned to their families and to us
proves they live by the challenge of that beautiful prayer of St.
Francis: "Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to
3
console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to
love. Where there is despair, let me SOW hope. Where there is
hatred, love. And where there is darkness, ever light."
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we gathered with men who show us that this is a season of
spirit, not a celebration of plenty. Let history remember that
tonight we stood with these true heroes and asked for God's
blessing on this world. Finally, in the words of the carol we'll
sing in a few minutes, let history remember that at Christmas
1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth, good will
to all.
God bless these men, this wonderful country, and now let's
light our tree.
#
#
#
#
#
#
Document No. 291551ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 12/6/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: MONDAY, 12/9/91 2:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
SUBJECT:
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1991 THE ELLIPSE
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SUNUNU
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
\
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
\
MCBRIDE
DEMAREST
PORTER ROSE
FIRESTONE
FITZWATER
GRAY
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 2:00 p.m., MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, with a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
no comment
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 5, 1991 5 p.m.
28
LIGHTS Draft Two
DEC 6
AlO
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
The Ellipse
Good evening, everyone. [ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS] and thanks to
Santa. Well, your big night's coming up. And people think I
travel a lot. I don't have to ask this Santa what the weather
will be like Christmas Eve -- he predicted it.
A special welcome home from this entire country to all the
men who were hostages so long and are finally back: finally home
in this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the
face of the earth. We've seen some unforgettable triumphs for
the human spirit these last couple of years. Tonight, let's say a
silent prayer that one Christmas we'll gather under this tree
able to celebrate freedom and peace embracing the entire world.
You know, Christmas is the only day when the world comes to
a stop in honor of a single person. What a moving reminder of
the power of one life -- of one man who stood for faith, hope and
charity. And, as He said, "the greatest of these is charity."
Charity. The joy of friendship and helping others -- and the
very idea this year's Pageant of Peace celebrates.
When we light this tree tonight, let it also in a very real
way shine a beacon on the American heart -- a glowing reminder
that this is a nation based on the ideal of charity -- of
goodness, generosity, family, and simple kindness.
When we illuminate this tree, when we turn this cold
darkness into warm light, let's remember that we can do that in a
2
concrete way in our own neighborhoods. Tonight we join together
and turn this into a Tree of Light. Every American can turn each
hometown into a Community of Light, by reaching out to a friend
or stranger in need. By working in our own neighborhoods we can
make sure that no elderly person goes to bed hungry -- that no
homeless person spends another despairing night on the streets -
- that no child lacks the birthright of love. Then -- one
Community of Light at a time -- we will turn America into a
Nation of Light.
The way we will do that is to follow tonight's theme; follow
the lesson of the greatest teacher who ever lived. We'll turn the
magic of Christmas into the magic of national redemption through
Christ's example of charity -- caring for others out of love.
This is a special season -- rich in meaning for many faiths.
Last week at a ceremony at the White House I shared in the
beginning of Hanukkah, the first day of the lighting of the
menorah. In a couple of weeks the candles of Kwanza will be lit.
And I'm here today to help light our National Christmas Tree.
It's a great tradition, because this tree stands for our nation's
unity and our nation's hope. You know, the switch I'll use to
light the tree is the same one that's been used by every
President since Coolidge started this ceremony 68 years ago.
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we asked for God's blessing on this world. That tonight
we asked that God's grace be granted to our brothers and sisters
in need. And, finally, in the words of the carol we'll sing
3
together in a few minutes: Let it be remembered that on
Christmas 1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth,
good will to all.
God bless you all, and now let's light this beautiful tree.
#####
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
91 DEC 9 P3: 10
December 9, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR TONY SNOW
Deputy Assistant to the President for
Communications and Director of Speechwriting
FROM:
JANET REHNQUIST AR
Associate Counsel to the President
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks -- Christmas Tree Lighting;
Thursday, December 12, 1991; The Ellipse
At your request, Counsel's Office has reviewed the above-
referenced matter. We have no legal objections.
Thank you for the opportunity to review this matter.
CC: Phil Brady
Document No. 291551ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 DEC 9 P2: 19
DATE: 12/6/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: MONDAY, 12/9/91 2:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
SUBJECT:
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1991 - THE ELLIPSE
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SUNUNU
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
\
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
\
MCBRIDE
DEMAREST
PORTER ROSE
FIRESTONE
FITZWATER
GRAY
>
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 2:00 p.m., MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, with a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Comments from Cabinet Affairs are attached.
Thanks,
EL
Elizabeth Luttig
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 5, 1991 5 p.m.
28
LIGHTS Draft Two
6
AlO
CI
DEC
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
The Ellipse
Good evening, everyone. [ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS] and thanks to
Santa. Well, your big night's coming up. And people think I
travel a lot. I don't have to ask this Santa what the weather
will be like Christmas Eve -- he predicted it.
A special welcome home from this entire country to all the
men who were hostages so long and are finally back: finally home
in this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the
face of the earth. We've seen some unforgettable triumphs for
the human spirit these last couple of years. Tonight, let's say a
silent prayer that one Christmas we'll gather under this tree
able to celebrate freedom and peace embracing the entire world.
You know, Christmas is the only day when the world comes to
a stop in honor of a single person. What a moving reminder of
the power of one life -- of one man who stood for faith, hope and
charity. And, as He said, "the greatest of these is charity."
Charity. The joy of friendship and helping others -- and the
very idea this year's Pageant of Peace celebrates.
When we light this tree tonight, let it also in a very real
way shine a beacon on the American heart -- a glowing reminder
that this is a nation based on the ideal of charity -- of
goodness, generosity, family, and simple kindness.
When we illuminate this tree, when we turn this cold
darkness into warm light, let's remember that we can do that in a
2
concrete way in our own neighborhoods. Tonight we join together
and turn this into a Tree of Light. Every American can turn each
hometown into a Community of Light, by reaching out to a friend
or stranger in need. By working in our own neighborhoods we can
make sure that no elderly person goes to bed hungry -- that no
homeless person spends another despairing night on the streets -
- that no child lacks the birthright of love. Then -- one
Community of Light at a time -- we will turn America into a
Nation of Light.
The way we will do that is to follow tonight's theme; follow
the lesson of the greatest teacher who ever lived. We'll turn the
magic of Christmas into the magic of national redemption through
Christ's example of charity -- caring for others out of love.
This is a special season -- rich in meaning for many faiths.
Last week at a ceremony at the White House I shared in the
beginning of Hanukkah, the first day of the lighting of the
menorah. In a couple of weeks the candles of Kwanza will be lit.
And I'm here today to help light our National Christmas Tree.
It's a great tradition, because this tree stands for our nation's
unity and our nation's hope. You know, the switch I'll use to
light the tree is the same one that's been used by every
President since Coolidge started this ceremony 68 years ago.
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we asked for God's blessing on this world. That tonight
we asked that God's grace be granted to our brothers and sisters
in need. And, finally, in the words of the carol we'll sing
3
together in a few minutes: Let it be remembered that on
Christmas 1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth,
good will to all.
God bless you all, and now let's light this beautiful tree.
# # # # #
DEC- 6-91 FRI 17:38
P.02
SUGGESTED OPENING FOR PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS AT 1991 TREE LIGHTING
Good evening. I'm glad so many of you could be here for this ceremony
starting off the holiday season. The beauty of this special season is
reflected in the attractive way that the President's Park has been decorated
with living evergreens for the Pageant of Peace. Again this year, thanks go
to the National Coal Association for contributing the 57 live trees ringing
the Pageant, representing each of the 50 states plus the District of Columbia
and the U.S. Territories. It 1s significant that those handsome blue spruce
trees were grown on a reclaimed surface coal mine, symbolizing the successful
environmental restoration of land from which energy is produced, and we thank
America's coal producers for that.
DEC- 6-91 FRI 17:38
P.03
PRENTERIOR
OSM FACT SHEET
RESURFACEMENTO
U.S. Department of the Interior
Office of Surface Mining
202 208-2553
November 21, 1991
CHRISTMAS TREES FROM RECLAIMED MINE LAND
Each year, just before Christmas, the President of the United States turns the switch
that lights the National Christmas Tree and the 57 smaller trees that represent the 50
states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories. The annual tree-lighting cer-
emony, which traditonally marks the start of the National Christmas Pageant of Peace,
is held on The Ellipse, just south of the White House. Although the national tree is
permanently planted on The Ellipse, the 57 state and territorial trees are planted tempo-
rarily for the event, and then, following the holiday season, are transplanted to Wash-
Ington area parks.
This year the 57 state and territorial trees and the other trees used to landscape The
Ellipse for the Pageant are from reclaimed coal mine land. The trees were grown on
land that was mined and reclaimed in the late 1970's by the R & F Coal Company, a
subsidiary of the Shell Mining Company. The reclaimed mine land near St. Clairsville,
Ohio, is now a 62-acre Christmas tree farm owned by John and Marian Feisley.
These trees are an excellent example of reclamation currently being completed by
mining companies operating under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of
1977. Land containing a productive tree farm was surface mined, over 226,500 tons of
coal removed, the land reclaimed, and a productive tree farm reestablished.
The tree-lighting ceremony on The Ellipse opens with a musical program and is con-
cluded with the President's Christmas message and his lighting the trees.
For additional information contact:
Document No. 291551ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 NOV 8 P12: 38
DATE: 12/6/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: MONDAY, 12/9/91 2:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
SUBJECT:
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1991 - THE ELLIPSE
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SUNUNU
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
\
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
MCBRIDE
DEMAREST
PORTER ROSE
FIRESTONE
FITZWATER
GRAY
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 2:00 p.m., MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, with a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
oh
P
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 5, 1991 5 p.m.
28
LIGHTS Draft Two
II
DEC
6
AlO
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
The Ellipse
Good evening, everyone. [ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS] and thanks to
Santa. Well, your big night's coming up. And people think I
travel a lot. I don't have to ask this Santa what the weather
will be like Christmas Eve -- he predicted it.
A special welcome home from this entire country to all the
men who were hostages so long and are finally back: finally home
in this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the
face of the earth. We've seen some unforgettable triumphs for
the human spirit these last couple of years. Tonight, let's say a
silent prayer that one Christmas we'll gather under this tree
able to celebrate freedom and peace embracing the entire world.
You know, Christmas is the only day when the world comes to
a stop in honor of a single person. What a moving reminder of
the power of one life -- of one man who stood for faith, hope and
charity. And, as He said, "the greatest of these is charity."
Charity. The joy of friendship and helping others -- and the
very idea this year's Pageant of Peace celebrates.
When we light this tree tonight, let it also in a very real
way shine a beacon on the American heart -- a glowing reminder
that this is a nation based on the ideal of charity -- of
goodness, generosity, family, and simple kindness.
When we illuminate this tree, when we turn this cold
darkness into warm light, let's remember that we can do that in a
2
concrete way in our own neighborhoods. Tonight we join together
and turn this into a Tree of Light. Every American can turn each
hometown into a Community of Light, by reaching out to a friend
or stranger in need. By working in our own neighborhoods we can
make sure that no elderly person goes to bed hungry -- that no
homeless person spends another despairing night on the streets -
- that no child lacks the birthright of love. Then -- one
Community of Light at a time -- we will turn America into a
Nation of Light.
The way we will do that is to follow tonight's theme; follow
the lesson of the greatest teacher who ever lived. We'll turn the
magic of Christmas into the magic of national redemption through
Christ's example of charity -- caring for others out of love.
This is a special season -- rich in meaning for many faiths.
Last week at a ceremony at the White House I shared in the
beginning of Hanukkah, the first day of the lighting of the
menorah. In a couple of weeks the candles of Kwanza will be lit.
And I'm here today to help light our National Christmas Tree.
It's a great tradition, because this tree stands for our nation's
unity and our nation's hope. You know, the switch I'll use to
light the tree is the same one that's been used by every
President since Coolidge started this ceremony 68 years ago.
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we asked for God's blessing on this world. That tonight
we asked that God's grace be granted to our brothers and sisters
in need. And, finally, in the words of the carol we'll sing
3
together in a few minutes: Let it be remembered that on
Christmas 1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth,
good will to all.
God bless you all, and now let's light this beautiful tree.
#####
Document No. 291551ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 NOV 8 A10: 28
DATE: 12/6/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: MONDAY, 12/9/91 2:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
SUBJECT:
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1991 - THE ELLIPSE
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SUNUNU
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
MCBRIDE
DEMAREST
PORTER ROSE
FIRESTONE
FITZWATER
GRAY
>
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 2:00 p.m., MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, with a copy to this office.
Thank you.
RESPONSE:
good, But.
NSC has an idea to
event. P/s. check with PHILLIP D. BRADY Bill
intro. hostages at this
Sittman _T.
Assistant to the President
you
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 5, 1991 5 p.m.
28
LIGHTS Draft Two
CI DEC 6
AlO
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
The Ellipse
Good evening, everyone. [ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ] and thanks to
Santa. Well, your big night's coming up. And people think I
travel a lot. I don't have to ask this Santa what the weather
will be like Christmas Eve -- he predicted it.
A special welcome home from this entire country to all the
men who were hostages so long and are finally back: finally home
in this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the
face of the earth. We've seen some unforgettable triumphs for
the human spirit these last couple of years. Tonight, let's say a
silent prayer that one Christmas we'll gather under this tree
able to celebrate freedom and peace embracing the entire world.
You know, Christmas is the only day when the world comes to
a stop in honor of a single person. What a moving reminder of
the power of one life -- of one man who stood for faith, hope and
charity. And, as He said, "the greatest of these is charity."
Charity. The joy of friendship and helping others -- and the
very idea this year's Pageant of Peace celebrates.
When we light this tree tonight, let it also in a very real
way shine a beacon on the American heart -- a glowing reminder
that this is a nation based on the ideal of charity -- of
goodness, generosity, family, and simple kindness.
When we illuminate this tree, when we turn this cold
darkness into warm light, let's remember that we can do that in a
2
concrete way in our own neighborhoods. Tonight we join together
and turn this into a Tree of Light. Every American can turn each
hometown into a Community of Light, by reaching out to a friend
or stranger in need. By working in our own neighborhoods we can
make sure that no elderly person goes to bed hungry -- that no
homeless person spends another despairing night on the streets -
- that no child lacks the birthright of love. Then -- one
Community of Light at a time -- we will turn America into a
Nation of Light.
The way we will do that is to follow tonight's theme; follow
the lesson of the greatest teacher who ever lived. We'll turn the
magic of Christmas into the magic of national redemption through
Christ's example of charity -- caring for others out of love.
This is a special season -- rich in meaning for many faiths.
Last week at a ceremony at the White House I shared in the
beginning of Hanukkah, the first day of the lighting of the
menorah. In a couple of weeks the candles of Kwanza will be lit.
And I'm here today to help light our National Christmas Tree.
It's a great tradition, because this tree stands for our nation's
unity and our nation's hope. You know, the switch I'll use to
light the tree is the same one that's been used by every
President since Coolidge started this ceremony 68 years ago.
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we asked for God's blessing on this world. That tonight
we asked that God's grace be granted to our brothers and sisters
in need. And, finally, in the words of the carol we'll sing
3
together in a few minutes: Let it be remembered that on
Christmas 1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth,
good will to all.
God bless you all, and now let's light this beautiful tree.
#####
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 5, 1991 5 p.m.
LIGHTS Draft Two
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
The Ellipse
Good evening, everyone. [ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS] and thanks to
Santa. Well, your big night's coming up. And people think I
travel a lot. I don't have to ask this Santa what the weather
will be like Christmas Eve -- he predicted it.
A special welcome home from this entire country to all the
men who were hostages so long and are finally back: finally home
in this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the
face of the earth. We've seen some unforgettable triumphs for
the human spirit these last couple of years. Tonight, let's say a
silent prayer that one Christmas we'll gather under this tree
able to celebrate freedom and peace embracing the entire world.
You know, Christmas is the only day when the world comes to
a stop in honor of a single person. What a moving reminder for
all of us of the power of one life -- of one man who stood for
faith, hope and charity. And, as He said, "the greatest of these
is charity." Charity. The joy of friendship and helping others
-- and the very idea this year's Pageant of Peace celebrates.
When we light this tree tonight, let it also in a very real
way shine a beacon on the American heart -- a glowing reminder
that this is a nation based on the ideal of charity -- of
goodness, generosity, family, and simple kindness.
When we illuminate this tree, when we turn this cold dark-
ness into warm light, let's remember that we can do that in a
2
concrete way in our own neighborhoods. Tonight we join together
and turn this into a Tree of Light. Every American can now go
out and turn each hometown into a Community of Light, by each of
us in our own way reaching out a hand to a friend, or stranger
in need. By working in our own neighborhoods we can make sure
that no elderly person goes to bed hungry -- that no homeless
person spends another despairing night on the streets -- that no
the
child lacks his birthright of love. Then -- one Community of
Light at a time -- we will turn America into a Nation of Light.
The way we will do that is to follow tonight's theme; follow
the lesson of the greatest teacher who ever lived. We'll turn the
magic of Christmas into the magic of national redemption through
Christ's example of charity -- caring for others out of love.
This is a special season -- rich in meaning for many faiths.
Last week at a ceremony at the White House I shared in the
beginning of Hanukkah, the first day of the lighting of the
menorah. In a couple of weeks the candles of Kwanza will be lit.
And I'm here today to help light our National Christmas Tree.
It's a great tradition, because this tree stands for our nation's
unity and our nation's hope. You know, the switch I'll use to
light the tree is the same one that's been used by every
President since Coolidge started this ceremony 68 years ago.
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we asked for God's blessing on this world. That tonight
we asked that God's grace be granted to our brothers and sisters
in need. And, finally, in the words of the carol we'll sing
3
together in a few minutes: Let it be remembered that on
Christmas 1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth,
good will to all.
God bless you all, and now let's light this beautiful tree.
#
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
91 DEC 12 P12:18
December 9, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR TONY SNOW
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Christmas in Washington
We have reviewed the attached draft and have no suggested
changes from a policy standpoint. We approve of the draft
remarks in their current form.
CC: Phillip D. Brady
Document No.
292059ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
12/9/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: WEDNESDAY, 12/11/91 NOON
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: "CHRISTMAS IN WASHINGTON"
SUBJECT:
PENSION BUILDING - - SUNDAY, DEC. 15, 1991 6:00 pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SUNUNU
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
PORTER ROSE
MCBRIDE
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than NOON, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Simon
Dec. 9, 1991
Draft 2 (XMAS)
PRESIDENTIAL DEMARKS:
"CHRISTMAS IN WASHINGTON"
PENSION BUILDING
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1991
6:00 P.M.
Thank you,
.
To all the performers -- Anne and Vince,
Anita and Johnny, and these two wonderful choirs: What a
magnificent performance! From the Bush family -- and for all the
families watching -- thank you for filling our hearts with song,
and lifting our spirits with the joys of Christmas. 11
About a hundred years ago, there was a little girl who was
afraid there wouldn't be any Christmas that year. You see, her
friends had told her that Santa Claus wasn't real. So to find
the truth, she wrote to the newspaper for the answer.
"Virginia," came the famous reply, "your little friends are
wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical
age
Santa Claus exists as certainly as love \ and generosity
\ and devotion exist, giving life its highest beauty and joy."
What would the world be like without Santa? About "as dreary as
if there were no Virginias."
Christmas is a time to enter that child-like world of dreams
and wishes, to rediscover what makes life worth living in a world
that too often forgets. You won't find the meaning of Christmas
beneath a tree, or swaddled in gift-wrap. For it matters less
what's under your tree than what's in your heart. Find a way to
give of yourself. Help a stranger; make sure that every child
knows that someone loves them. The only Christmas gift that ever
2
really mattered was given that very first Christmas: the gift of
God's love \ born here on Earth -- love that never ends, soothing
mercy, poured out without measure.
These next few days, families will reunite. Together, they
will enjoy special meals, sit around crackling fires, share warm
memories and loving embraces. As Christmas arrives each year, we
Americans recall with humble awe how blessed we are among
nations. May God continue to watch over us, and grant us peace.
From all of us \ to all of you: Merry Christmas!
# # #
3
together in a few minutes: Let it be remembered that on
Christmas 1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth,
good will to all.
God bless you all, and now let's light this beautiful tree.
#####
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
December 10, 1991
MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE BH
On Thursday, December 12, you will once again light the
National Christmas Tree at the Ellipse. (The ceremony starts at
5 p.m.; the lighting will actually be about 5:45 p.m.) Ten to
twelve thousand people are expected.
Four of the recently returned hostages will be taking part
in the treelighting with you. The remarks (5 minutes, cards)
focus on these men, and the symbolism of their journey from
darkness into light.
(Hinchliffe/Nix)
December 10, 1991 1 p.m.
LIGHTS Draft Three
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thursday, December 12, 1991
The Ellipse 5:45 p.m.
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS] And thanks to Santa. Well, your big
night's coming up. And people think I travel a lot. 11 I don't
have to ask this Santa [Willard Scott] what the weather will be
like Christmas Eve -- he's predicting it. 11
This is a very special night. I look to you brave men and
on behalf of your loving country I say, finally, to Terry
Anderson and Thomas Sutherland and Joseph Cicippio and Alann
Steen and the others not here -- welcome home. Welcome home to
this, the most generous, most proud, most free nation on the face
of the earth.
And to Javier Perez de Cuellar and Giandomenico Picco -- you
have done God's work. You have brought our brothers back. You
have made true the words of Isaiah, found in the first book the
captors allowed into these men's cell: "The people that walked
in darkness have seen a great light; they that dwell in the land
of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined."
It's more than just appropriate -- it's really almost
miraculous -- that we can celebrate with our returned brothers
the lighting of our nation's Christmas tree. The idea is so
moving because these men have come out of darkness into the
bright light of liberty.
As you hear these remarkable men talk, you realize they were
never lost in that darkness of sorrow, anguish and despair. Even
2
at the worst moments, they were guided by a stubborn spark that
cruelty couldn't extinguish -- the spark of the human spirit.
Their precious gift to us is to rekindle our nation's belief in
the light of faith -- and our belief in ourselves.
When Terry and Tom and Joseph and Alann light our nation's
tree tonight, that act will be a reminder of what they and their
companions, living and gone, have already done -- light this
nation's soul.
There have been special guests at these ceremonies before -
- even Winston Churchill helped to light the tree during WWII.
But this nation has never been honored by the presence of men
whose spirit meant more to us. Your fortitude, humor and
generosity tell us of the true meaning of this season.
We now have new symbols etched in our national memory.
We'll never forget Peggy Say running to embrace her brother,
Terry Anderson. Or Tom Sutherland's infèctious, exultant smile.
or Alann Steen waving a tiny American flag from a balcony in
Wiesbaden. Or stories of years spent in a living grave that
these men transformed into "The Church of the Locked Door."
At this time of year especially, these images remind us that
the glitz and glamor of material things don't matter. The
courage, faith, and love these men embody are all we need to
recognize what's really important.
The way they have returned to their families and to us
proves they live by the challenge of that beautiful prayer of St.
Francis: "Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to
3
console; To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to
love. Where there is despair, let me SOW hope. Where there is
hatred, love. And where there is darkness, ever light."
When history remembers Christmas 1991, let it remember that
tonight we gathered with men who show us that this is a season of
spirit, not a celebration of plenty. Let history remember that
tonight we stood with these true heroes and asked for God's
blessing on this world. Finally, in the words of the carol we'll
sing in a few minutes, let history remember that at Christmas
1991, this nation united to ask God for Peace on earth, good will
to all.
God bless these men, this wonderful country, and now let's
light our tree.
######
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING INTRODUCTION \ ELLIPSE
THANK YOU, AND WELCOME TO THIS WONDERFUL WASHINGTON
TRADITION. I'M PARTICULARLY PROUD TONIGHT TO HAVE SOME
VERY SPECIAL FRIENDS HERE WITH ME TO HELP LIGHT OUR
NATION'S CHRISTMAS TREE. AMERICA'S PRAYERS WERE
ANSWERED WHEN THESE MEN CAME HOME TO US. So A SPECIAL
WELCOME TO: TERRY ANDERSON AND MADELEINE BASSIL; ALANN
AND VIRGINIA STEEN; THOMAS AND JEAN SUTHERLAND; JOSEPH
AND ELHAM CICIPPIO; AND JESSE AND BADER TURNER. GOD
BLESS YOU AND ENJOY THE SHOW.
#
#
#
Administration of George Bush, 1991 / Dec. 12
t possible for the
So, it's a fitting time that you all are here.
Welcome home, to this, the most gener-
out this role are
And I think we'll just wander on out now
ous and proud and free Nation on the face
nuch credit is due
and ask you to come, and please, all of you
of the Earth. It is more than just appropri-
If, who has a pro-
just come by and say hello. We'd love that.
ate, it is almost miraculous that we can cele-
the organization
brate with these five the lighting of our
Note: The President spoke at 5:03 p.m. in
Nation's Christmas tree. The idea is so
me special pleas-
the East Room at the White House. Maj. John
moving because these men have come out.
ony after having
Wissler, USMC, military aide to the Presi-
of darkness into the bright light of liberty.
of brave and won-
dent, read the citations. A tape was not
And as you hear these remarkable men talk,
moment, under-
available for verification of the content of
you realize they were never lost in that
possibly can the
this exchange.
darkness of sorrow, anguish, and despair.
om. That these
Even at the worst moments, they were
es have, at long
guided by a stubborn spark that cruelty
their loved ones
Remarks on Lighting the National
could not extinguish, the spark of the
holiday season
Christmas Tree
human spirit.
and my efficient
December 12, 1991
Their precious gift to us is to rekindle our
Giandomenico
Nation's belief in the light of faith and our
ese many months
Welcome to this wonderful Washington
belief in ourselves. And when Terry and
tradition. And I am particularly proud to-
Tom and Joseph and Alann and Jesse light
esident, I cannot
night to have some very special friends
our Nation's tree tonight, that act will be a
n American who
here with us to help light our Nation's
reminder of what they and their compan-
3 the United Na-
Christmas tree. America's prayers were an-
ions, living and gone, have already done to
liam R. Higgins,
swered when these men came home to us;
light our Nation's soul.
abduction, chief
so a special welcome to Terry Anderson and
There have been special guests at these
Madeleine Bassil. Here they are: Alann and
i group in south
ceremonies before. Even Winston Churchill
the life of this
Virginia Steen; and Thomas and Jean Suth-
helped to light the tree during World War
m doing every-
erland; Joseph and Elham Cicippio; and
II, but this Nation has never been honored
that his body is
Jesse and Badr Turner.
by the presence of men whose spirit meant
mily.
Have a great evening.
more to all of us. Your fortitude, your
ce, I would like,
[At this point, the Christmas Pageant of
humor, and generosity tell us the true
ent Bush for the
Peace entertainment began.]
meaning of this season. And at this time of
has extended to
Well, thank you, Joe. Please be seated all
year especially, these men remind us that
d to the organi-
of you, and it's good to see the Secretary of
the glitz and glamour of material things
particularly in
the Interior, so many other special guests
don't matter; the courage, the faith, and the
United Nations
here. And, of course, a warm thank you to
love of these men embody, that they
pectations that
Marilyn Horne; this marvelous Tucson Boys
embody, are all we need to recognize
e, stability, and
Chorus; the Navy Band; Joe Williams; our
what's really important.
all the world.
favorites, the Gatlin Brothers over here.
The way they've returned to their fami-
And all the performers who brought the
lies and to us proves they live by the chal-
ome of us are
Christmas spirit to Washington tonight.
lenge of that beautiful prayer of St. Francis,
ca's Christmas
And thanks to Santa. His big night is
"Grant that I may not so much seek to be
bara and I just
coming up. And we don't have to ask this
consoled as to console; to be understood as
nilies. So what
particular Santa, Willard Scott, what the
to understand; to be loved as to love.
it here in the
weather's going to be like on Christmas
Where there is despair, let us sow hope;
andering out.
Eve. He's predicting it. And he is right
where there is hatred, love; and where
handatory. You
every once in a while. [Laughter]
there is darkness, ever light."
d then, please
This is a very special night. And I look
When history remembers Christmas 1991,
se through this
over my shoulder here at the very special
let it remember that tonight we gathered
k on all these
guests, the brave men who are with us here
with men who show us that this is a season
nteers from all
tonight. And on behalf of our loving coun-
of spirit, not a celebration of plenty.
you'll feel, as
try I say, finally, to Terry Anderson, to Tom
Let history remember that tonight we
is blessed by
Sutherland, Joseph Cicippio, and Alann
stood with these two heroes and asked for
the gift from
Steen and Jesse Turner, and the others not
God's blessing on this world. And finally, in
here: Welcome home.
the words of the carol we'll sing in a few
1817
Dec. 12 / Administration of George Bush, 1991
minutes, let history remember that at
Ohio, many people believed that human
United States
Christmas 1991, this Nation united to give
flight would never be possible. At that time,
and sixteenth.
thanks to God and to ask God for peace on
even the automobile had not yet appeared
earth, goodwill to all.
on the American scene. Defying the skep-
God bless these five men, this wonderful
tics, Orville and Wilbur Wright persevered
country, and now I'd like to ask them to
[Filed with th
through months of careful study, calcula-
join me as we light the Nation's Christmas
ter, 10:10 a.m.
tion, and design.
tree.
Indeed, long before they began construct-
Note: This pro
ing their first flying machine, the Wrights
the Federal Reg
Note: The President spoke at 5:42 p.m. on
the Ellipse during the annual Christmas
immersed themselves in the study of exist-
Pageant of Peace. In his remarks, he re-
ing texts and papers on fundamental aero-
ferred to Joe Riley, president of the Christ-
dynamics. They also conducted exhaustive
mas Pageant of Peace; Marilyn Horne,
research, moving far beyond previously ac-
Statement on
mezzo-soprano with the Metropolitan
cepted data and theories, many of which
Forces in Euro
Opera; jazz singer Joe Williams; and coun-
had proved to be unreliable. The Wrights'
Implementati
try and western entertainers, the Gatlin
achievement of three-axis control in flight,
December 12,
Brothers. Television weatherman Willard
inspired by watching birds of the air, laid
Scott was dressed as Santa Claus. A tape
the foundation for their success at Kitty
Today I have
was not available for verification of the
Hawk and for the future development of all
the "Convention
content of these remarks.
aviation.
Implementation
More than a tribute to their mechanical
ports the United
acumen and collective genius, the Wright
gram to transfe
brothers' triumph at Kitty Hawk stands as a
Europe treaty-lii
Proclamation 6391-Wright Brothers
shining example of the power of intellect
NATO Alliance.
Day, 1991
and determination over seemingly insur-
security interest:
December 12, 1991
mountable odds. It is an example we do
tion objectives.
well to remember. Today many frontiers
By the President of the United States
However, I ha
still stand before us. Every problem and
of America
visions of the A.
question we face, both as individuals and as
that the Inspect
A Proclamation
a Nation, represents new challenges and op-
States Arms C
They were quiet men of modest means,
portunities. Like Orville and Wilbur Wright
Agency submit a
but in an extraordinary display of talent,
and like all those Americans who have used
to the President,
imagination, and teamwork, Orville and
their freedom, resources and skill to reach
and the Chairma
Wilbur Wright changed the world. Less
high goals, we, too, can rise on the wings of
Relations Commit
than a century ago, on December 17, 1903,
industry and learning.
of executive brar
these enterprising brothers launched the
The Congress, by a joint resolution ap-
the President's c
age of aviation with the first controlled,
proved December 17, 1963 (77 Stat. 402; 36
supervise and
manned flight in a heavier-than-air, me-
U.S.C. 169), has designated the 17th day of
within the exect
chanically propelled airplane. Although
December of each year as "Wright Brothers
shall not be inter
their handcrafted "Flyer" covered just 120
Day" and requested the President to issue
that authority.
feet on its maiden voyage over the wind-
annually a proclamation commemorating
Section 402 reo
swept beach near Kitty Hawk, North Caro-
this day.
sional oversight
lina, the Wright brothers helped lead man-
kind on a great journey of discovery and
Now, Therefore, I, George Bush, Presi-
Agency (OSIA)
dent of the United States of America, do
review by the H.
progress that continues to this day.
Given the routine nature of air travel
hereby proclaim December 17, 1991, as
Services and Ap₁
today-as well as the increasing frequency
Wright Brothers Day. I invite all Americans
provides sufficient
of shuttle missions and other forms of space-
to observe that day with appropriate pro-
of OSIA activities.
grams, ceremonies, and activities.
include other comr
flight-it can be difficult for us to fathom
just how remarkable the work of the
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set
Senate will unn.
Wright brothers was. When they began to
my hand this twelfth day of December, in
budget review and
experiment with airplane models and wind
the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and
requested report E
tunnels at their small workshop in Dayton,
tion for the Commi
ninety-one, and of the Independence of the
1818