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Reagan Medal of Freedom 1/13/93 [OA 8483]
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Reagan Medal of Freedom 1/13/93 [OA 8483]
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Backup Chronological Files
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MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
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Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13842
Folder ID Number:
13842-004
Folder Title:
Reagan Medal of Freedom 1/13/93 [OA 8483]
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26
23
2
4
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 11, 1993
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAN MC GROARTY
FROM:
CURT SMITH
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED REMARKS FOR REAGAN MEDAL OF FREEDOM
I. SUMMARY
On Wednesday, January 13, at 11:00 a.m., you will award
President Reagan the President's Medal of Freedom before
approximately 250 people in the East Room.
II. DISCUSSION
Your remarks (approximately 8 minutes / cards) highlight the
change that President Reagan brought this Nation and the values
that he has rekindled. They herald President Reagan for
spreading freedom at home and abroad, and award him our Nation's
highest civilian honor, the Medal of Freedom.
(Smith/Walters)
Draft One
December 30, 1992
MEDAL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: MEDAL OF FREEDOM
EAST ROOM
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 1992
President Reagan. Barbara and I are delighted to be with
you. Our dear friend Nancy Reagan. My special greetings to
1
It is 2 pleasure to welcome you all back to the WH.
members of the Reagan Cabinet. a Ladies and gentlemen.
Being President has its privileges. This Presidential morning mine is to
present America's highest civilian award, the Medal of Freedom,
to my predecessor -- the 40th President of the United States. //
Today we honor the American life of an American original.
Z
In a movie he once said, "Just win one for the Gipper.' As
President Ronald Reagan helped win one for freedom at home and
abroad. / I have often called him my friend and mentor -- and so
he is. He is also one of the greatest Americans of all time. /
that
Think of whistlestops which ring unsummoned -- like a
sirensweet postcard from the past. Dixon / Tampico [Tam-PEE-
3
koe] / Eureka College / WHO Radio, Des Moines. / Always, Ronald
Reagan embodied the heart of America -- what he described as
4
"hopeful, big-hearted, idealistic, daring, decent, and fair."
m
Ronald Reagan didn't just make the world believe in America
un
again. He made Americans believe in themselves. / I remember
Inauguration Day in 1981 -- and how the clouds on a gloomy morn
gave way as he began his speech. Ronald Reagan turned the winter
of discontent into a springtime of possibility. //
2
( (Now, I'm not saying these things about Ronald Reagan in
case he decides to run for President again in 1996. I say them
because they're true.
( (How ironic that the oldest President of the United States
would prove as young as the American spirit. / It's believed
that the fountain of youth was born in Florida. I think Ronald
Reagan makes a good case for its existence in California. )) //
Think first how he made us young by freeing Americans at
Ec. Rept
in 1992
home. / Ronald Reagan believed in giving power to the people.
5
So he helped the private sector create 19 million new jobs. /
t
He believed that government was too big and spend too much. So
began
he lowered taxes and spending, cut red tape, and presided over a JD
X
peacetime, recovery boom -- the longest in American history. //
POSTER
Some men reflect their times. Ronald Reagan changed his
times. Nowhere was that more true than abroad -- where he
championed the
Holy Grail of
liberty. From Korea to Normandy, he
lit the morning star of freedom. Mr. President, you made ours
not only a safer but far better world in which to live. //
Ronald Reagan believed that only a strong America could put
Communism in history's dust bin and keep it there. He was right.
( (Someone told me that visitors to Lenin's Tomb haven't been able
to get a good look at him since Communism's collapse. Lenin's
still spinning. ) ) //
Ronald Reagan believed, too, that technology could nurture
modernization of our
freedom. So he ignored the doubters and backed the Stratetic
defense systems 2nd military hard ware.
Defense Initiative.
When the Scuds came raining down in Desert
Patriot missite defense is the alternative
to SDI, and it is a program championed
by Jimmy Carter. we've been criticized
for making this mistake before. 1 suggest
3
Storm, thank God we didn't rely on some abstract theory of
deterrence. Thank God we had the technology to shoot those Scuds
out of the sky. / Actually, thank Ronald Reagan. /
Ronald Reagan not only re-built our military. He restored
its morale. Thanks to him, our fighting forces went into
"Operation Desert Storm" carrying the most sophisictaed weapons
in their arsenal. They also went into battle wearing pride on
their sleeves -- and love of country in their hearts.
//
In the end, an America that was vigilant helped build a
world of real peace -- the triumph of liberty, not just the
absence of war. Peace came because people demanded it --
demanded the freedom that is America's essence and message.
Peace came too because leaders willed, not merely wished, it
through diplomatic summitry. / /
As President Ronald Reagan signed START I -- the first
7
agreement to slash strategic nuclear arms. It was a treaty whose
beginnings President Yeltsin and I built upon last week. START
8
II will cut by more than 2/3 the strategic arsenals in place
today. It will also end completely the most dangerous of all
strategic nuclear weapons -- land-based multiple warhead ICBMs.
During the Gulf War, a true heroine, Margaret Thatcher told
me, "Now, George, this is no time to go wobbly.' America never
did in START I or II -- nor did Ronald Reagan. Few Presidents
were more right, more often, about "Peace through strength."
None was more a prophet in his time. /
Makes POTUS sound weak.
4
Ronald Reagan sought a world where nations could talk -- not
die -- over differences. A world of prosperity, peaceful
competition, and freedom without war. He helped achieve it --
helped end the Cold War -- and America won. Which is why I say:
Mr. President, we'll get you on Mt. Rushmore yet. /
When Ronald Reagan's favorite President died in 1945, the
New York Times wrote, "Men will thank God on their knees, a
9
hundred years from now, that Franklin D. Roosevelt was in the
White House. " //
S
15
Mr. President, it will not take 100 years -- million do so
today
today for us to thank that you were in the White House.
You loved America -- blessed America -- helped make her "that
shining city on a hill. //
Ronald Reagan was a true ambassador of freedom. Today, we
present him with the Medal of Freedom. It is my pleasure to
introduce Lieutenant , who will read the citation honoring the
10
Dutchman / the beloved Gipper / my predecessor / my friend. The
40th President of the United States.
#
#
#
#
1. Reayan will be 3rd President awarded the Medal of Freedom, ofter Kennedy
and Johnson, both posthamously
- Reagan will be first to receive it during his lifetime
- and first Republican
2. We bring the President right to the threshhold, but not over it: Reagen
deserves the Medal because he brought liberty at home by champiraing
small government, and less intrusion of people's freedom, and abroad
by staring down the world's greatest appressor, imperial communism.
He moved us beyond contrining oppression to reversing it - from
the prevention of new walls and new Soviet satellites to the destraction
of old ones. we might want to state that MONE explicitly.
really like it.
(Walters)
January 8, 1993
[CITES]
CITATIONS FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDALS OF FREEDOM AND CITIZENS MEDAL
JANUARY 13, 1993
TIME TBD
Marlin Fitzwater
Marlin Fitzwater has come a long way since his reporting days at
the Topeka Capital-Journal. Through 27 years in government,
serving as spokesman for two presidents, Marlin has upheld the
highest standards of duty to his Nation with charisma and disarming
humor. His charm and his straightforward honesty have won him
universal favor among journalists and his countrymen. Marlin's
words embodied the resolve of the American people when he
proclaimed to the world that "The liberation of Kuwait has begun."
For his meritorious service and his commitment to keeping the
Nation informed, America awards Marlin Fitzwater the Citizens
Medal.
C. Boyden Gray
Boyden Gray has been at the front lines of the conservative
revolution in America for 12 years. As a member of President
Reagan's Task Force on Regulatory Relief and later as Counsel to
the President, he has struck a careful balance between deregulation
and progressive legislation. Boyden has advised two presidents by
setting higher standards for government ethics, working to end job
discrimination, and promoting clean air. As Counsel, Boyden Gray
has been unyielding in his commitment to upholding the Constitution
and has stood firm in the face of shifting political pressures.
It is fitting that his Nation honors him with the Citizens Medal.
Strom Thurmond
Few people have given as much to their country or their state as
Strom Thurmond has. At 90 years young, he has vigorously served
seven consecutive terms as senator from South Carolina, and his
career reads like a roll call of government service: pro-tem of
the Senate, Governor of South Carolina, major general in the Army
Reserve, judge, and teacher. There are few better advocates for
the American farmer or the textile industry in Congress than the
tenured senator, and even before it became popular, Strom Thurmond
stood up for a strong national defense, spending restraint, and
lower taxes. America pays tribute to its most senior senator,
Strom Thurmond, by awarding him the Nation's highest civilian
honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
(Walters)
January 8, 1993
[CITES]
CITATIONS FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDALS OF FREEDOM AND CITIZENS MEDAL
JANUARY 13, 1993
TIME TBD
Marlin Fitzwater
Marlin Fitzwater has come a long way since his reporting days at
the Topeka Capital-Journal. Through 27 years in government,
serving as spokesman for two presidents, Marlin has upheld the
highest standards of duty to his Nation with charisma and disarming
humor. His charm and his straightforward honesty have won him
universal favor among journalists and his countrymen. Marlin's
words embodied the resolve of the American people when he
proclaimed to the world that "The liberation of Kuwait has begun.
For his meritorious service and his commitment to keeping the
Nation informed, America awards Marlin Fitzwater the Citizens
Medal.
C. Boyden Gray
Boyden Gray has been at the front lines of the conservative
revolution in America for 12 years. As a member of President
Reagan's Task Force on Regulatory Relief and later as Counsel to
the President, he has struck a careful balance between deregulation
and progressive legislation. Boyden has served the executive
branch for twelve years, advising two presidents, setting higher
standards for government ethics, working to end job discrimination,
and promoting clean air. As Counsel, Boyden Gray has been
unyielding in his commitment to upholding the Constitution and for
standing firm in the face of shifting political pressures. It is
fitting that his Nation honors him with the Citizens Medal.
Strom Thurmond
Few people have given as much to their country or their state as
Strom Thurmond has. At 90 years young, he has vigorously served
seven consecutive terms as senator from South Carolina, and his
career reads like a roll call of government service: pro-tem of
the Senate, Governor of South Carolina, major general in the Army
Reserve, judge, and teacher. There are few better advocates for
the American farmer or the textile industry in Congress than the
tenured senator, and even before it became popular, Strom Thurmond
stood up for a strong national defense, spending restraint, and
lower taxes. America pays tribute to its most senior senator,
Strom Thurmond, by awarding him the Nation's highest civilian
honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Ed good work-
Walters
January 8, 1993
[CITES]
CITATIONS FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDALS OF FREEDOM AND CITIZENS MEDAL
JANUARY 13, 1993
TIME TBD
Marlin Fitzwater
charm,
Marlin Fitzwater has come a long way since his reporting days at
the Topeka Capital-Journal. Through 27 years in government,
serving as spokesman for two presidents, Marlin has upheld the
highest standards of duty to his Nation with charisma and disarming
humor. His prominent scalp, sanguine complexion, and warm humor
have become the gold standard of Presidential advocacy, and his
straightforward honesty has won him universal favor among
journalists and his countrymen. Marlin's words embodied the
resolve of the American people when he proclaimed to the world that
"The liberation of Kuwait has begun.' For his meritorious service
and his commitment to keeping the Nation informed, America honors
Marlin Fitzwater with the Citizens Medal.
C. Boyden Gray
Boyden Gray has been at the front lines of the conservative
revolution in America for 12 years. As a member of President
Reagan's Task Force on Regulatory Relief and later as Counsel to
the President, he has struck a careful balance between deregulation
and progressive legislation. Boyden has served the executive
branch for twelve years, advising two presidents, setting higher
standards for government ethics, working to end job discrimination,
nice
and promoting clean air up to and including his ethanol-powered
Chevy Citation. As Counsel, Boyden Gray has been unyielding in his
too
commitment to upholding the Constitution and for standing firm in
the face of shifting political pressures. It is fitting that his
informal
Nation honor him with the Citizens Medal.
for this
Strom Thurmond
thing. hand of
Few people have given as much to their country or their state as
Strom Thurmond has. At 90 years young, he has vigorously served
seven consecutive terms as senator from South Carolina, and his
career reads like a roll call of government service: pro-tem of
the Senate, Governor of South Carolina, major general in the Army
Reserve, judge, and teacher. There are few better advocates for
the American farmer or the textile industry in Congress than the
tenured senator, and even before it became popular, Strom Thurmond
stood up for a strong national defense, spending restraint, and
lower taxes. America pays tribute to its most senior senator,
Strom Thurmond, by awarding him the Nation's highest civilian
honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Walters/Martin/Aarhus
December 1, 1992
4:00 p.m.
[MEDAL.REV]
CITATIONS FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDALS OF FREEDOM,
DECEMBER 11, 1992
TIME TBD
JOHNNY CARSON
One of America's greatest television personalities, Johnny Carson
left the Nebraska plains to preside over late night TV for almost
30 years. With a quick wit and a sure golf swing, Johnny's good-
natured humor kept the pulse of the Nation, and assured us that
even in the most difficult times, it was still okay to laugh.
The United States honors Johnny Carson, who personifies the heart
and humor of America.
HARRY SHLAUDEMAN
Ambassador Harry Shlaudeman is one of America's most decorated
and masterful Foreign Service officers. In almost four decades
of service to eight Presidents, through international crises and
war, he has faced every challenge with personal bravery and
professional skill. He demonstrated his loyalty again in 1990,
when at the request of the President, he came out of retirement
to serve as Ambassador to Nicaragua and helped ensure that
Nation's peaceful transition to democracy. For his decades of
meritorious service, courageous diplomacy, and protection of our
interests abroad, the United States commemorates the service of
Ambassador Harry Shlaudeman.
DAVID BRINKLEY
The name David Brinkley is synonymous with television news. From
his days as NBC's White House correspondent to his time as co-
anchor of the Huntley-Brinkley Report to his Sunday morning show
on ABC, David Brinkley has explained the complexities of current
events to generations of Americans. With the wisdom of
experience and a wry wit, he has informed the Nation's citizens
and helped hold its leaders accountable. The United States
recognizes his contributions to broadcast journalism.
MEDALS OF FREEDOM
December 1, 1992
PAGE TWO
RICHARD PETTY
In the world of stock car racing, there is only one King.
Richard Petty is more than racing's monarch, he is an American
legend. From humble beginnings in Level Cross, North Carolina,
Number 43 became one of racing's finest -- and fastest. Winning
a record 200 races and seven Daytona 500 victories, Richard Petty
found freedom at 175 miles per hour. The United States honors
this American hero for exemplifying the dreams, dedication, and
drive that make this Nation great.
GENERAL JOHN M. VESSEY
General John M. Vessey, USA (Ret.) was the last four-star combat
veteran of World War II to retire from active duty. A self-
described "mud soldier," the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs
of Staff never forgot the men in the field, and he returned from
retirement to search for soldiers missing in action in Vietnam.
His wise counsel to two Presidents has helped to break an impasse
with Hanoi, culminating in Vietnam's recent offer to provide all
information about Americans missing in action. The United States
honors General John M. Vessey, a soldier/statesman who would not
leave anyone behind.
ELIE WIESEL
Few people have seen a darker side of humanity than Elie Wiesel.
During World War II, he saw most of his family killed while
imprisoned in the Auschwitz and Buchenwald concentration camps.
And yet this author, philosopher, and winner of the 1986 Nobel
Peace Prize still sees the promise of human tolerance, learning,
and faith. He challenges people of all religions to remember the
Holocaust, that it may never happen again. His deeply spiritual
life and literature remind us that to protect freedom's flame, we
must remember that which threatens it. The United States honors
this keeper of that flame, Elie Wiesel.
MEDALS OF FREEDOM
December 1, 1992
PAGE THREE
ISAAC STERN
Since his debut 56 years ago, Isaac Stern has become one of the
world's preeminent violinists. His warm and vibrant
interpretations have brought him international acclaim and our
Nation's highest honor for artistic merit, the National Medal of
Arts. But even beyond his triumphant career, Isaac Stern has
enriched the human spirit by broadening the scope of music --
supporting artists from all corners of the world; helping to
found the National Endowment for the Arts; and rescuing Carnegie
Hall from the wrecking ball. For his support of the arts and his
lifetime of achievement, the United States recognizes master
violinist Isaac Stern.
I. M. PEI
Perhaps the most famous architect in the world today, I. M. Pei's
architectural feats represent the pinnacle of classic modernism.
His very name, Ieoh Ming, means "to inscribe brightly," as his
buildings have illuminated skylines worldwide. I. M. Pei has
found beauty in simplicity and boldness in geometry, setting the
standard for modern architecture. For the legacy of artistic
elegance he has inscribed in our cities, America honors I. M.
Pei.
ELLA FITZGERALD
Discovered as a teenager at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem, Ella
Fitzgerald and her swing style of vocal jazz transcend the times.
Her trademark scat captivates audiences, and as a cultural
ambassador, her impressive vocal range stretches across oceans
and political boundaries. Honored by the Kennedy Center for her
lifetime achievements, inducted into the Jazz Hall of Fame, and
awarded the National Medal of Arts, it is fitting that the United
States honors this "First Lady of Song".
MEDAL OF FREEDOM
December 1, 1992
PAGE FOUR
AUDREY HEPBURN
As a gifted actress, Audrey Hepburn captured the hearts of
millions. Yet she has a most profound effect on young people who
will never know her as a princess in "Roman Holiday", as a model
in "Funny Face", or as the woman in black in "Breakfast at
Tiffany's". With a passion that rivals her beauty, Audrey
Hepburn is a tireless worker and a devoted Special Ambassador for
the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund.
America is proud to honor Audrey Hepburn, a star whose light is
reflected not only on movie screens but in the bright smiles of
children around the world.
PAGE
27
16TH DOCUMENT of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Public Papers of the Presidents
Presidential Citizens Medal
Announcement of the Presentation of the Medal to Larry M.
Speakes, Assistant to the President and Principal Deputy
Press Secretary.
23 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 93
January 30, 1987
LENGTH: 613 words
The President today awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal to Larry M.
Speakes, Assistant to the President and Principal Deputy Press Secretary.
The Presidential Citizens Medal was established by Executive Order 11494 of
November 13, 1969, for the purpose of recognizing citizens of the United States
of America who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or
their fellow citizens. The medal may be bestowed by the President upon any
citizen of the United States at the sole discretion of the President. The
announcement of the granting of the medal and the presentation ceremonies may
take place at any time during the year.
The citation reads as follows:
In journalism, politics, and Government, Larry Speakes has faithfully served
the cause of truth and, in doing so, has served the cause of America. Veteran
of the White House press office for 9 years under three aministrations,
conducting some 2,000 daily press briefings during this Administration, Larry
Speakes has become a familiar sight to all of us. America has come to know him
as a man cool under pressure, conscientiously working to get the facts out -- a
man whom the American people could always count on to tell them the truth.
America is more knowledgeable because of Larry Speakes.
Prior to joining the White House staff as Deputy Press Secretary to the
President on January 20, 1981, Mr. Speakes was vice president of the
international public relations firm of Hill and Knowlton in 1977-81. He served
as deputy spokesman in the office of the President-elect during transition and
was on the communications staff of the Reagan-Bush Committee during the 1980
campaign. The President appointed him to his current position of Assistant to
the President and Principal Deputy Press Secretary on August 5, 1983.
Mr. Speakes started his newspaper career in 1961 as editor of the Oxford
(Mississippi) Eagle and was managing editor of the Bolivar Commercial in
Cleveland, MS, in 1962-66. He was general manager and editor of Progress
Publishers of Leland, MS, publishing weekly newspapers in four cities, 1966-68.
His newspapers won top awards from the Mississippi Press Association for 6
straight years.
Mr. Speakes came to Washington in 1968 as press secretary to Senator James 0.
Eastland (D-MS), serving as spokesman for the Committee on the Judiciary and a
coordinator for Senator Eastland's 1972 reelection campaign. During his service
with Senator Eastland, Mr. Speakes directed press relations for major
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23 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 93
Judiciary Committee hearings, including the confirmation of four Supreme Court
Justices.
In 1974 Mr. Speakes joined the Nixon administration as a Staff Assistant to
th President and was later appointed Press Secretary to the Special Counsel to
the President. In August 1974 he became Assistant Press Secretary to the
President in the Ford administration. During the 1976 Presidential campaign, he
was Press Secretary to Senator Bob Dole (R-KS), the Republican candidate for
Vice President. When President Ford left office in 1977, Mr. Speakes became his
press secretary, serving until June 1, 1977.
Mr. Speakes attended the University of Mississippi, where he majored in
journalism. He has received honors and awards, including the Distinguished
Journalism Alumni Award from the University of Mississippi in 1981; Kappa Sigma
Fraternity National Man of the Year Award in 1982; honorary doctor of letters
degree from Indiana Central University in 1982; and the Special Achievement
Award for 1983 from the National Association of Government Communicators.
He is married to the former Laura Crawford, has three children, and resides
in Annandale, VA.
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PAGE
21
4TH DOCUMENT of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Public Papers of the Presidents
Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential
Medals of Freedom and Presidential Citizen's Medals
27 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 884
July 3, 1991
LENGTH: 1891 words
Thank you all very much. Welcome, all of you, to the White House. And
particular greetings to those who have come from State, Defense, the
intelligence community, the NSC, and other Agencies in this big government. And
a special welcome to the Cabinet members who are here and to our diplomats who
are honoring us with their presence and to those outside of government who
played such a crucial role in building public support for Operations Desert
Shield and Desert Storm.
Tomorrow, all across this country, Americans will celebrate the birth of our
nation, a day of fireworks and family and parades. And I know many of us are
going to participate. I'm looking forward to a small-town parade and then
another one in Michigan in the afternoon. And it will be a great Fourth of
July. But I think this year, these festivities take on a very special
significance, as we properly celebrate the safe return of our sons and daughters
from the Gulf. And we honor those who have fallen in the cause of freedom.
We date our independence from the Declaration of July 4, 1776. But the truth
is, that in the eyes of the world, the full meaning of America's triumph
remained in question well after our revolution was won. And it wasn't until the
War of 1812 and the decisive defeat - with all respect Ambassador Acland -
[laughter] -- of the British forces -- if I'd known you were going to be here,
I'd have changed this - [laughter] - at the Battle of New Orleans. This is
historical fact - [laughter] that America truly seized the world's
attention, and Americans truly believed that they had arrived as a nation. That
victory helped to shape our new nation and move our country toward a destiny
that few dreamed possible.
Like that early battle, Desert Storm marks another turning point in America's
destiny. The young men and women we've welcomed home from the Gulf return to a
nation far different than the one they left: They come home to a country that is
confident and proud, an America that is sure of itself and strong, an America
other nations look to for leadership. That's been true in the past, but I think
there is a newfound credibility around the world. And Desert Storm proved once
more that America's strength of character begins in the heart of every
individual.
And it's always risky to single out a few for special honors, especially in
this case, where 50 many inside the Government and out of government played such
vital roles in Desert Storm. Today, here in the White House, we honor 10
Americans, 10 of the hundreds of thousands of heroes who answered the call, who
honored the American ideal in ways that warrant special recognition.
Normally, the honors conferred today are given for a lifetime of service or
near the end of a long career marked by distinction. But in Desert Storm, we
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PAGE 22
27 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 884
have, you see, a watershed event - 50 unique, so singular given the history of
the past half-century --- that it is fitting, particularly before our day of
independence, that we recognize now the exceptional service which was rendered
by a special few.
The events of August 2d -- Iraq's brutal invasion of tiny Kuwait - thrust
today's honorees into the midst of history; some were center stage, some behind
the scenes.
And today we begin by honoring six whose work took place out of the
spotlight, in the offices across from the White House, in the EOB, in the State
Department, across the Potomac at the Pentagon and the CIA: Robert Gates, the
Deputy National Security Adviser; Bob Kimmitt, the Under Secretary of State; the
Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Admiral Dave Jeremiah; Paul Wolfowitz, the
Under Secretary of Defense, the Deputy Director of CIA, Dick Kerr; and Richard
Haass, the NSC Director for Near East Affairs.
In the weeks and the months after August 2 of last year, these six men became
known simply as the "small group." This was not an attestation to their
intellect - [laughter] - but rather to the way in which they came together.
And now you know that any committee in this city limited to six people alone is
indeed small. It was miraculous. But despite the modest name, the contribution
made by the "small group" to our success in the Gulf was really nothing short of
monumental. That small group met several times a week, and at the peak of the
crisis, several times a day. And they made sacrifices; they spent long hours
away from family and friends. And literally they worked late into the night,
missed weekends at home and holidays and, in one case, a honeymoon, which I
understand has been corrected now, Richard. [Laughter] But really I think the
bottom line is what they did made a difference.
In addition to these six men, we also honor the Deputy Secretary of State,
Larry Eagleburger, and the Deputy Secretary of Defense, Don Atwood, because
throughout the conflict they both worked tirelessly - Don Atwood to focus the
formidable military and economic resources of the coalition on a single goal.
And among the many vivid images of the war, we will remember Larry Eagleburger
on his mission to Israel, cane in hand, amid the torn and twisted ruins on
streets shattered by a Scud attack.
To Larry and Don and to Bob Gates and Bob Kimmitt, to Paul and Dick and Dave
and Richard: our heartfelt thanks. Your nation honors you. In recognition of
your critical contributions to the success of Desert Storm, I take pride in
presenting to each of you the Presidential Citizen's Medal.
[At this point, the medals were presented.]
The next two men that we honor today need little in the way of introduction.
They would be the first to tell us that we OWE our success in Desert Storm to
the real heroes, the brave men and women who served so proudly in the Gulf, who,
half a world away, upheld the American ideal. Well, I've met with many of our
sons and daughters who fought in the Gulf, and they are the heroes of Desert
Storm. No question about that, they are the ones. But let me tell you what I
know, something that speaks volumes about the stature of the two men we now
honor. These are the men that our heroes look up to: General Norman Schwarzkopf
and General Colin Powell.
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27 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 884
General Schwarzkopf and Chairman Powell, your commitment and good counsel,
your deep compassion for every one of the thousands of men and women under your
command will always be remembered. Your objective was clear: It was the
liberation of Kuwait. But our victory secured more than even the precious
freedom of that small country. Desert Storm marked the end of an era of
self-doubt and lingering uncertainty about America's staying power and sense of
purpose.
Under your leadership, America sent its sons and daughters to confront an
enemy abroad, and in the process, you transformed a nation here at home. Desert
Storm dispelled all doubt: America is and America always will be a force for
good in the world.
AS President, and in this instance as Commander in Chief, on behalf of a
grateful nation I now present to General Schwarzkopf and to General Powell the
highest civil honor that this country can bestow: the Medal of Freedom.
[At this point, the medals were presented.]
Well, as I think history will show that we had a great team here, at the
Pentagon, out at Langley, and in many other departments of this government. It
was a team effort, and I will always be very grateful to those who were at my
side here in the White House, particularly the Vice President and the Chief of
Staff, to the Director of Central Intelligence, Bill Webster.
Having said that, in my view, this ceremony would not be complete without
honoring three more American leaders, exceptional public servants who each
contributed singularly to our success in the Gulf: Secretary of State Jim Baker,
Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney, and National Security Adviser Brent Scowcroft.
Few Presidents have been better served at a crucial point in American history
than I have by these three and by the men and women who work for them at State
and Defense and at NSC.
Secretary Baker pursued every avenue to a diplomatic solution to this crisis,
traveling tens of thousands of miles to seek any way possible to achieve Iraq's
unconditional withdrawal from Kuwait.
I think history, as we look back, will say that nowhere were his achievements
more marked than at the United Nations. The U.N. Security Council adopted 12
resolutions dealing with the Gulf crisis, including an historic -- perhaps
unprecedented -- resolution authorizing the use of force to expe1 Iraq from
Kuwait.
Jim worked with our European allies, the Congress, our friends in the Middle
East, the Soviets, and countries around the world to achieve our goals. And he
stood up for American principles and in the process he earned the admiration of
the world.
As to Dick Cheney -- Secretary Cheney not only oversaw one of the largest
deployments of forces in American history but also worked hard at the beginning
of the crisis to ensure that America would respond decisively to aggression.
His effective testimony before the United States Congress helped all our fellow
countrymen understand what was at stake in the Gulf. Working swiftly, yet
skillfully when time was truly of the essence, he traveled to Saudi Arabia and
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27 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 884
arranged for the first deployment of U.S. and coalition troops to that nation.
And when war came America was ready, and Secretary Cheney's leadership
contributed enormously to the victory.
And lastly, but not leastly, Brent Scowcroft. As National Security Adviser,
he was at my side - poor guy --- [laughter] throughout the crisis, quite
literally, from the early morning hours on August 2d until victory. He
performed superbly every step of the way, coordinating the various national
security agencies as they prepared recommendations for the National Security
Council and for me, and working with our coalition partners. Put simply, he
ensured that I received the unfettered advice of our key national security
members. He offered his own consistently sage counsel and practical advice on
all aspects of the crisis. A true patriot, General Scowcroft is, in a very real
sense, one of the unsung heroes of the Gulf war.
And now it is my great pleasure on behalf of the United States - and
particularly on behalf of all those who served in Operation Desert Shield and
Desert Storm ---- to conclude this ceremony by presenting the Presidential Medal
of Freedom to Jim Baker, Dick Cheney, and Brent Scowcroft.
[At this point, the medals were presented.]
And now, in conclusion, may I ask the Ambassadors from the various countries
represented here today to stand up. We've honored Americans today, but this was
truly a coalition effort and we're very pleased to see you all here. Would you
please stand?
Thank you all. That concludes the ceremony. And may everybody have a
wonderful Fourth of July. Thank you all for coming.
Note: The President spoke at 10 a.m. in the East Room at the White House. In
his remarks, he referred to British Ambassador to the United States Antony
Acland; Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf, Commander of the U.S. forces in the Persian
Gulf; Gen. Colin J. Powell, Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff; and John H.
Sununu, Chief of Staff to the President.
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14TH DOCUMENT of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Public Papers of the Presidents
Remarks on Presenting the Presidential Citizen's Medal to
Brooke Astor
24 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 52
January 19, 1988
LENGTH: 396 words
The President. Well, Brooke and ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon, and
welcome to the White House. We've gathered here today to bestow an honor upon a
woman we all know and admire: Brooke Astor. I'll read a citation in just a
moment, but that citation is awfully official sounding, and I'd like to add a
personal note. You see, Brooke is a friend of ours. Nancy has known Brooke
since Nancy was 14. I've known Brooke for a good many years.
There's no way a document can capture her wit, her warmth, no way express her
energy and her extraordinary vitality. And, Brooke, there's just no way that
Nancy and I can ever thank you enough for all the wonderful moments that you've
given us.
And now you're here with me at the podium, and your country wishes to honor
you. And therefore, I shall read a citation for the Citizen's Medal.
"Her philanthropies have extended from Carnegie Hall to the Bronx Zoo. She
has made the New York Public Library her special project, overseeing the
renaissance of that venerable and magnificent institution. She has written two
volumes of autobiography and a number of splendid, witty novels. And to all who
knew her, she's a joy. And if Brooke Astor feels that she has become a public
monument, it is a credit to the public for making her one."
Ms. Astor. That's it?
The President. And now, yes, the presentation of the Citizen's Medal.
Ms. Astor. Oh, thank you, Mr. President. I'm overcome.
The President. Well, congratulations, and God bless you.
Ms. Astor. Mr. President, when can I wear this?
Mrs. Reagan. Any time.
Ms. Astor. Do I wear it at a big party and pin it on?
The President. Yes, you can. It's yours.
Ms. Astor. That isn't showing off?
The President. No, it's yours. You've earned and deserve it. [Laughter]
Ms. Astor. Thank you 50 much.
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24 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 52
The President. And there's a little button that shows, if you choose, that
you are the possessor of that.
Ms. Astor. There's the button, yes.
Mrs. Reagan. Wear it any time.
The President. All right.
Ms. Astor. Thank you so much for this.
The President. And now WE shall all adjourn to the Red Room, which is right
next door. Gorbachev was very happy with it. [Laughter]
Note: The President spoke at 4:30 p.m. in the Blue Room at the White House.
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