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[Resumes-White House Speech Writing Position]
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415892716
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[Resumes-White House Speech Writing Position]
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13899-001
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Tony Snow Subject Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Snow, Tony, Files
Subseries:
Subject File, 1988-1993
OA/ID Number:
13899
Folder ID Number:
13899-001
Folder Title:
[Resumes-White House Speech Writing Position]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
18
29
2
7
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
01. Resume
Re: Brian K. Donnelly; contains personal information. (2
n.d.
P-6, (b)(6)
pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Snow, Robert Anthony (Tony)
Subseries:
Subject File
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
[Resumes - White House Speechwriters]
Date Closed:
12/23/2004
OA/ID Number:
08677
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2005-0485-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
March 8, 1992
The White House
Office of Communications
Office of Speechwriting
Tony Snow
Deputy Assistant to the President for Communications
and Director, Speechwriting
1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. Snow:
I am interested in pursuing a career in the federal government utilizing my analytical, organizational
and research skills. I believe a career at the Office of Speechwriting would enable me to use these
skills most productively. If you have any information that would help me in pursuing a career in the
Office of Speechwriting utilizing these skills, I would greatly appreciate your sending it to me.
Thank you for your time and assistance. I eagerly anticipate hearing from you shortly.
Sincerely,
Brian K.Donnelly
Brian K. Donnelly
Enclosure: Resume
BRIAN K. DONNELLY
358 Pickering Street
Manchester, NH 03104
OBJECTIVE:
A position in the federal government utilizing my organizational
and research skills.
COMPUTER EXPERIENCE:
Machines:
Apple Macintosh
IBM PC AT and PS/2
Operating Systems:
Macintosh Operating System
Microsoft DOS
Programs:
A variety of application software
SUMMARY:
Four years' experience as an Underwriter's Assistant in the
insurance industry. Detail-oriented, quality-conscious individual
committed to accuracy.
WORK EXPERIENCE:
1988 - Present
AMERICAN INTERNATIONALGROUP
NEW HAMPSHIRE INSURANCE GROUP, Bedford, NH
Underwriter's Assistant I
Responsible for rating new business and renewal policies, as
well as endorsements, cancellations, and quotes.
Created a Combined Agency Directory, resulting in easier
access to pertinent information for the underwriters. This
contributed to positive producer/client relationships and
increased productivity.
1987 - 1988
AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL GROUP
NEW HAMPSHIRE INSURANCE GROUP, Manchester, NH
Distribution Clerk
Responsible for distributing work to employees and managers
of all departments.
Photocopy-Preservation
Brian K. Donnelly
Page Two
1986 - 1987
HITCHCOCK CLINIC, Bedford, NH
Medical Records Clerk
0
Responsible for the data entry and filing of patients' medical
records.
EDUCATION: Franklin Pierce College, Rindge, NH
Bachelor of Arts, 1988
Major: English
Dean's List, Spring Semester 1987
Choral Union
Literary Magazine
Ability to speak, read and write French.
Photocopy-Preservation
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
02. Resume
Re: Lisa Ann Schreier; contains personal information. (1 pp.)
n.d.
P-6, (b)(6)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Snow, Robert Anthony (Tony)
Subseries:
Subject File
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
[Resumes - White House Speechwriters]
Date Closed:
12/23/2004
OA/ID Number:
08677
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2005-0485-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2-21-92
Well, all get to the point right away
I understand that the President needs a full time speech writer I need a job, and
L can anite. Enough said
Thanks for your assistance. You can reach me at (108)675-1547
liso
Lisa Ann Schreier
4956 West Hull#5
SKokie, IL 60017
Lisa Ann Schreier
4956 West Hull #5
Skokie, IL 60077
Career Objective
To work in the broad arena of Marketing/Advertising offering my past experience, while
learning and developing into new areas of expertise.
Employment
August 1988-July 1991
CASS Communications
Evanston, IL
Senior Coordinator Special Programs
Implement and maintain programs such as recruitment postering, event sponsorship
and free standing advertising display units at colleges, high schools and military
installations across the country
Deal with newspaper and magazine publishers to maximize advertisers' market
penetration
Communicate with sub-contractors as well as sales offices and all corporate levels,
including editing of monthly newsletter
August 1986-November 1990
Quick Flix Video
Arlington Heights, IL
Co-Founder/Manager
Designed, opened and managed a 3,000 square foot video store
Responsible for initial and on-going movie and merchandise inventory, as well as
personnel functions including training
Extensive contact with studios, distributors and customers
September 1985-August 1986
Platt Music Corp.
Des Plaines, IL
Advertising Account Coordinator
Computerized all facets of multi-million dollar cooperative advertising department
dealing with electronic manufacturers and major department stores nationwide
Implemented media analysis in new markets
September 1983-September 1985
Precision Video/
Video King
Advertising Director/Promotions Coordinator
Created and placed weekly ROP ads as well as special inserts
Handled all aspects of promotions, including grand opening, in-store events and sales
contests
Worked closely with distributors on co-op advertising
Additionally, I have a broad base of customer service and management experience in the
banking/savings and loan industry, and am fluent in several computer programs
Education
B.A. (Honors)-Business and Management, Northeastern Illinois University
Photocopy-Preservation
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
03. Resume
Re: Adam Scott Falkoff; contains personal information. (1
n.d.
P-6, (b)(6)
pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Snow, Robert Anthony (Tony)
Subseries:
Subject File
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
[Resumes - White House Speechwriters]
Date Closed:
12/23/2004
OA/ID Number:
08677
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2005-0485-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
February 10, 1992
Dreucle Scaling
Administrative Officer
Office of Communications
Room 122
Old Executive Office Building
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Dreucie Scaling:
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me on February 10, 1992. I appreciate the information you
provided me with about positions in your office. Although I realize that their are currently no positions I hope
that you give my resume consideration if a position becomes available. Please advise me if I can provide
you with further information about my professional experience.
I am currently working on Senator D'Amato's re-election campaign and I can be reached at (202) 675-6054.
In addition, as of November 25, 1991 I have received political clearance from Presidential Personnel due to
my work on the 1988 Bush/Quayle Campaign. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
adam &. Fathaff
Adam S. Falkoff
ADAM SCOTT FALKOFF
1178 N. Utah Street
Arlington, VA 22201
EDUCATION:
Duke University, Durham, NC
B.A., in Political Science and Art History, 1990
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE:
January 1992 present
Deputy Finance Director of Re-election Campaign
United States Senator Alfonse D'Amato - National Republican Senatorial Committee
Coordinate fund raisers in Washington D.C. and New York.
Develop strategies to increase donor base.
Contact previous donors in order to form a finance committee.
July 1990 January 1992
Director of Constituent Relations and White House Liaison
United States Senator Alfonse D'Amato - Washington D.C. Office
Tracked various legislative actions in order to handle constituent and district office inquiries.
Corresponded frequently with the Office of Legislative Affairs and the Visitor's Office
in The White House.
Scheduled all Congressional tours for New York State.
Coordinated mass mailings and conducted state-wide phone polls.
May 1990 July 1990
Intern for Legislative Assistant for U.S. Customs, International Drug Trafficking, and Crime
United States Senator Alfonse D'Amato Washington D.C. Office
Followed daily legislation through Senate Hearings and the Congressional Record, reporting
results directly to the Legislative Aide.
Met with customs and DEA officials on various occasions to discuss pending legislation.
LEGAL EXPERIENCE:
May 1988 August 1988
Paralegal
Photocopy-Preservation
Warren E. Stoller, Attorney at Law - New York, NY
Filed court documents.
Assisted Mr. Stoller in court.
Updated pending case files with new information.
Performed a limited amount of specifically directed legal research.
SUSAN PETERSON PRODUCTIONS, INC/Media and Presentation Training - December, 1991
Attended private intensive media training workshop for public speaking and public relations work.
AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS:
Governor's Citation of Honor for Excellence in Scholastic Achievement
Benjamin S. Chancy Citation of
Honor in Music
Silver Medal In Governor's Cup Crew Regatta
Bronze Medal in Head of the Tennessee
Regatta
Chosen Participant in Duke University Law School's Mock Trial.
ACTIVITIES:
1991: Member of Bravo Washington Opera Society
Member of Senate Staff Club
1989-90: Chairman
for Student Attitudes and Behavior Policy on President H. Keith H. Brodie's Task Force on Commencement
Senior Chairperson for Duke University's "Phonathon", Duke's Fundraising Program
1986-1989:
College Republicans - Bush/Quayle Campaign
Duke Crew Team Member: 86-87, 87-88 JV, 88-89 V
Served as Duke University Art Museum Student Docent
Member of the Duke University Sailing Team
Member of the Duke University Skydiving Team.
SKILLS AND INTERESTS:
Spanish read, spoken
Painting, Piano, Guitar
Sailing, Skiing, Skydiving
Travel and Cooking.
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
04. Resume
Re: Shawn Christopher Neville; contains personal
n.d.
P-6, (b)(6)
information. (3 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Snow, Robert Anthony (Tony)
Subseries:
Subject File
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
[Resumes - White House Speechwriters]
Date Closed:
12/23/2004
OA/ID Number:
08677
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2005-0485-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
February 18, 1992
Dear Mr. Snow:
This letter is to apply for a position in your office. I have had "schedule C" approval
from Presidential Personnel since July. I would be immensely grateful should you be able or
at all inclined to share information of openings that may be appropriate to my application.
As my resume outlines, I have worked for the National Republican Senatorial
Committee (NRSC) since June 1991. As a research analyst, I have conducted assignments in
house, and in the field, that have been politically lucrative and a vital part of an aggressive
research program at NRSC. I am sure the skills I have polished and gained here can be
brought to service to the White House.
I have held two internships on the Hill--with Congressman Vander Jagt and with
Team 100 member Rich DeVos' Amway Corporation. These were outstanding experiences
through an honor's semester with my college that gave me knowledge of the workings of the
office of a House Ways and Means member and the interests of a very supportive and
successful corporation.
I am a May 1991 graduate of Hope College, a conservative liberal arts school ranked
in the top fifty by National Review magazine. In addition to good course work, I earned
honors in speech and debate, held office in my county Republican party, ran one of the most
vigorous and well-funded College Republican organizations in the state, and held a
demanding part-time job that financed one hundred percent of my education. These gave me
the kind of experiences few students have in their undergraduate years and a rock solid work
ethic.
I greatly appreciate any information you could share. You should have an earlier
resume on file, with written recommendations, that the enclosed updates.
With thanks for your time and attention,
Sincerely,
Shawn C. Neville
Mr. Tony Snow
Special Assistant to the President for Communications
Office of Communications
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Northwest
Washington, DC 20500
SHAWN CHRISTOPHER NEVILLE
6216 Edison Drive
Alexandria, Virginia 22310
EMPLOYMENT
RESEARCH ANALYST
June 1991 to Present
NATIONAL REPUBLICAN SENATORIAL COMMITTEE
Responsible for analysis and written presentation of domestic and foreign policy issues as
represented in print media for use by Republican incumbents and challengers in 1992 campaigns.
Collected and distilled oppositions' record, statements, known policies, and published positions.
Assisted in the development of a data base of strategic research for state campaign use.
Conducted field research for Pennsylvania special senate election.
STAFF ASSISTANT (paid intern)
March 1991 to June 1991
THE OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN GUY VANDER JAGT
Prepared correspondence, including form and personal letters, for the Congressman.
Researched a corporate tax reform proposal, the National Dividend Act, which the Congressman
introduced and advocated through his membership on the Ways and Means Committee.
Provided summaries of selected committee hearings.
Worked with the staffs of other Michigan Republican House members to coordinate efforts of mutual
interest.
LOBBYING ASSISTANT (paid intern)
January 1991 to March 1991
AMWAY CORPORATION, OFFICE OF WASHINGTON AFFAIRS
Assisted in the development of Amway's sponsorship of World Expo 1992 in Genoa, Italy. Further
assisted Amway Chairman Jay Van Andel in his capacity as Commissioner General of World Expo
1992 through summaries of meetings with the United States Information Agency.
Researched a tax issue and prepared a sixty page brief relevant to employee classification.
Researched Federal Elections Commission policies regarding political use of corporate resources,
assisted in the development of appropriate policies.
SUPERVISOR
MEIJER INCORPORATED
January 1985 to December 1990
Financed 100 percent of college education with this employment.
Supervisor of service department which included 50+ cashiers, cash office, customer service desk,
and utility workers for hypermarket with estimated daily sales of $150,000.
Held numerous positions with ascending responsibilities from bagger while in high school to
supervisor by junior year of college.
EDUCATION
B.A., Hope College, Holland, Michigan
May 1991
Major in Political Science, concentrations in Economics and Communications
College Republican Chairman; Varsity Speech & Debate; Hope College Symphonic Orchestra
HONORS
Washington Honors Semester Student
1991
Highest Honors, Pi Kappa Delta, for speech and debate
1991
Finalist, Lincoln-Douglas Debates, Marquette University
1989
COMPUTER SKILLS
Word Perfect 5.1; Microsoft Word II; Framework III; Ventura Publishing; Lotus 1-2-3; dBase IV
Photocopy-Preservation
SHAWN CHRISTOPHER NEVILLE
POLITICAL ADDENDUM
CHAIRMAN FOR YOUTH
OTTAWA COUNTY REPUBLICANS
1988-1990
member campaign and executive committees
responsible for full-time volunteer staff post-primary to election day.
generated 300 volunteers for literature drops, phone banks, and canvassing precincts from local colleges and
high schools.
CO-CHAIRMAN
1987-1990
HOPE COLLEGE REPUBLICANS
re-established defunct organization
won annual funding from Student Congress
hosted major speakers
registered 700 voters in 1988 and 1990
provided transportation to voting place for campus
CAMPAIGN MANAGER
Fall 1989
LUMSDEN FOR BOARD OF EDUCATION
designed direct mail
wrote speeches and organized appearances
arranged for advertising and endorsements
DEPUTY VOTER REGISTRAR
1990
OTTAWA COUNTY, MICHIGAN
CAMPAIGN VOLUNTEER
1987-1988
BUSH FOR PRESIDENT
Bush-Quayle Chairman at Hope College
principal organizer of Holland Area Rally for Bush, an event featuring President Ford, having 1,000 people
in attendance, and receiving visibility in all West Michigan Media
arranged task force to assist in air hanger rally to welcome then Senator Quayle at Muskegon airport
hosted "Bush for President" reception at Hope College with Lorrettee Ruppe, then Director of Peace Corps
provided transportation for over 100 Hope College students to attend and volunteer at Grand Rapids
Bush/Quayle rallies
spoke at !ocal colleges and high schools to recruit volunteers
printed local newsletter with events and reprints of favorable articles
organized campus parties to view Presidential debates
OTHER RACES
Vander Jagt for Congress (1990)
Holland School Mileage (1989)
Engler for Governor (1990)
Lucas for Governor (1986)
Durant for Senate (1989 primary)
Henry for Congress (1986)
Van Wylen for Mayor (1989)
Youth for Reagan (1984)
SPECIAL TRAINING
Telefundraising, Republican National Committee (1991)
Opposition Research, National Republican Senatorial Committee (1991-1992)
Campaign Technology, Leadership Institute (1989)
Campaign Management Program, Hope College (1988)
Photocopy-Preservation
SHAWN CHRISTOPHER NEVILLE
REFERENCES
employment:
political:
academic:
The Honorable John C. Gartland
Dr. Jack Holmes
Dr. Sandy Alspach
Director, Washington Affairs
Campaign Director
Professor of Communications
Amway Corporation
Ottawa Couty Republicans
Hope College
214 Massachusetts Avenue, NE
186 1/2 River Avenue
Holland, MI 49423
Suite 210
Holland, MI 49423
(616) 394-7594
Washington, D.C. 20002-4958
(616) 396-3791
(202) 547-5005
Dr. Robert Elder
Mr. Tom DePree
Professor of Political Science
The Honorable James M. Sparling
Chairman
Hope College
Chief-of-Staff
Ottawa County Republicans
Holland, MI 49423
Congressman Guy Vander Jagt
186 1/2 River Avenue
(616) 394-7545
2409 Rayburn House Office
Holland, MI 49423
Building
(616) 396-3791
Washington, D.C. 20515
personal:
(202) 235-3511
Mrs. Bonnie Ten Eyck
Ms. Paula Delo
Executive Director
Director of Public Information
Mr. Don Todd
Ottawa County Republicans
Council of Chief State School
Director of Research
186 1/2 River Avenue
Officers
National Republican Senatorial
Holland, MI 49423
379 Hall of the States
Committee
(616) 396-3791
400 North Capitol, NW
The Ronald Reagan Center
Washington, D.C. 20001
425 Second Street, NE
Washington, D.C. 20002
Mr. Jon Nunn
(202) 675-6000
Past Executive Director
Kent County Republicans
Dr. Edward Fugimoto
600 Penn Plaza
Director of Government Affairs
Ms. Becky Dannenberg
126 Ottawa, N.W.
Isuzu Motors of America
Service Manager
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
655 15th Street, NW
Meijer Incorporated #47
(616) 459-4500
Suite 375
746 East Sixteenth Street
Washington, D.C. 20005
Holland, MI 49423
(616) 396-3791, ext. 440
The Honorable Dick DeVos
Industry Sector Advisory
Committee
2003 Hilsboro Road, S.E.
Grand Rapids, MI 49501
(616) 459-4500
Photocopy-Preservation
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
05. Resume
Re: Dominic M. D. Nguyen; contains personal information.
n.d.
P-6, (b)(6)
(1 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Snow, Robert Anthony (Tony)
Subseries:
Subject File
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
[Resumes - White House Speechwriters]
Date Closed:
12/23/2004
OA/ID Number:
08677
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2005-0485-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
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financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
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information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
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P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
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purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
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gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
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DOMINIC M. D. NGUYEN
Tony please see
(Pronounced -win")
win
Home Address:
Business Address:
1201 South Eads, Apt. 1210
U.S. Department of Transportation
Arlington, Virginia 22202
Washington, D.C. 20590
XX
OBJECTIVE
To serve the President of the United States in any capacity that allows me to use my education and
skills to promote his agenda and programs for the good of the American people.
EDUCATION
Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
College of Arts and Sciences, 1987-1991
Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.
Worked and paid own way-through college.
Graduated Phi Beta Kappa (elected junior year) with honors in political science and with distinction.
Certificates in American government and politics, and international affairs.
Language proficiency in French, Vietnamese, and Latin. Learning Spanish and Portuguese.
EMPLOYMENT
U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C.
Office of Public Affairs, July 1991-present
Speechwriter for Secretary of Transportation Samuel K. Skinner.
Researched, wrote, edited, and produced speeches, op-eds, messages, articles, memoranda, and letters.
(Writing samples attached.)
Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
Department of Political Science, 1989-1991
Creator and publisher of departmental newsletter.
Sole writer, editor, and producer of University's foremost departmental newsletter.
Taught fundamentals of desktop publishing and graphic design.
HONORS AND AWARDS
Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America, 1987.
Bobby Buerger Scholarship, Northwestern University, 1987-1991.
Dean's List, every quarter 1987-1991.
McGovern Award for Outstanding Student in Political Science, Northwestern University, 1991.
Department of Transportation Service Award, 1991.
AREAS OF PRIMARY INTEREST
Education in America.
Domestic economy and international competitiveness.
Criminal justice in the American judiciary system.
Wildlife preservation and conservation.
References are available upon request.
Photocopy-Preservation
910903-024
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590
UNITED
FAMERICA
September 19, 1991
STATES
OF
MESSAGE FOR THE
NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS
MONTH COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE
SEPTEMBER 1991
The passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act offers testimony to our nation's
desire to secure for all Americans, including those with disabilities, the same
blessings of liberty promised in the U.S. Constitution. There are those who will say
that the dignity of equal rights, the freedom of opportunity, and the crusade to tear
down the walls of bigotry amount to nothing but a dream. They are right. It is the
American dream.
The American with Disabilities Act, however, does more than make the American
dream of equality a reality for 43 million citizens with disabilities who have special
transportation needs. Many of these individuals are not able to take advantage of
America's opportunities because they do not have access to transportation services.
This law breaks down barriers which have kept individuals with disabilities from
using transportation services available to other Americans. It extends to them
greater freedom to travel. It extends to them greater independence.
For Americans with disabilities, the transportation system can be a key to breaking
their isolation and enhancing the quality of their lives. Accessible vehicles and
specialized transportation services can all help accommodate citizens with
disabilities. Sidewalks and cuts in curbs at corners, automatic electric doors, ramps,
and level access platforms at stations and other buildings allow for improved access
and mobility. Signs and communications facilities are being installed that provide
information in a way that people with vision or hearing impairments can understand
more readily. Over 35 percent of public transit buses are now equipped with lifts
that can accommodate wheelchairs, and many buses and other public transportation
vehicles and facilities have low or level entries. Much more needs to be done,
however.
The Department of Transportation has the responsibility for enforcing access and
mobility requirements in the transportation sector, and will move aggressively to
carry out this strategy, which includes:
Working with transportation providers and representatives of the disabled to
identify transportation facilities where access improvements are necessary.
Also, assisting in developing effective designs and implementation schedules
to meet those needs.
A
Assisting public transportation agencies in preparing plans and standards for
providing special services and for acquiring vehicles accessible to disabled
passengers. Also, meeting these requirements in a timely and cost-effective
manner.
N
Developing criteria and review procedures for enforcing conformance with
the Americans with Disabilities Act.
While we have made a strong start, our mission is far from accomplished. As long as
the doors of opportunity remain closed to even one American, we must continue to
find better ways to address the needs of disabled Americans. This spirit should guide
us as we pursue all transportation policies -- for our greatest strength lies in our
ability to work together and honor the shared values we treasure most.
Somuel K. Skinner
Samuel K. Skinner
DEPARTMENT of TRANSPORTARY
THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590
October 18, 1991
MEMORANDUM TO
ALL NEW DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION EMPLOYEES
Welcome to the Department of Transportation. Since few professions other than
public service provide the same opportunity for devoting skills and energy to the
crucial issues facing our nation today, it is no exaggeration to say that in public
service, each of you can make a difference.
You arrive at the Department during an exciting time marked by the
implementation of the National Transportation Policy. Never has the agenda facing
our Department been more demanding, and never have we been more in need of
well-educated, talented, and dedicated individuals to help us. In order to deal with
the complex problems that face us today, we need people with - in addition to
intelligence and integrity -- a desire to innovate, a willingness to take risks in order
to gain improvement, and a deep commitment to teamwork. Unless people are
willing to think creatively, take risks, and draw upon the strengths of their fellow
employees, we simply cannot meet our promise of safe and efficient transportation
to the American people.
In the course of your career at DOT, you may have to make sacrifices and work
harder than you have ever worked before. These are challenges based on the
conviction that you are contributing significantly to the management and process of
American government, that you carry a special trust to advance the common good.
Honoring that trust has its own rewards as you will come to realize.
Engraved above the Speaker's chair in the House of Representatives is a quote by
Daniel Webster: "Let us develop the resources of our land, build up its institutions,
promote all its great interests, and see whether we in our generation may not
perform something worthy to be remembered."
I hope that you share these sentiments, and the excitement and challenges that are
offered by public service to the Department. You have much to contribute, and we
gladly welcome you to our ranks.
Somuel K. Skinner
Samuel K. Skinner
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590
November 15, 1991
NATIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE MONTH
NOVEMBER 1991
In many profound ways, American Indians have shaped and continue to influence
the character of our Nation. While they were greatly and often tragically affected
by the impact of European conquest and settlement, their enduring and rich
achievements and contributions of American Indians, we also accord to them our
heritage gives us cause to celebrate. This month, as we recognize the many
respect and admiration.
American Indians provided early European settlers with knowledge and skills
the wilderness, and supplied various goods that helped revolutionize tastes and
necessary to ensure their survival and well-being. They also served as guides through
habits in the United States and around the world. Today, art forms, crafts, and
cultural objects prized for their mastery, skill, and beauty continue to influence
aspects of American artistic and intellectual life.
Crops and medicinal plants first domesticated by American Indians were another
major contribution that significantly shaped the economy and society of this
country. More than eighty types of plants were introduced by these resourceful
people, among them corn and potatoes which have graced many a table and form
the economic basis of many agricultural communities across this land.
The American vocabulary would also be much poorer and less colorful without the
thousands of American Indian words for our cities, states, lakes, and other
geographical sites. From Massachusetts to Chicago to Lake Tahoe, these names serve
as constant reminders of our American Indian heritage.
Not all contributions made by the "first Americans" to our society are so visible or SO
widely celebrated, however. By their perseverance through difficult times in our
history, American Indians remind us that Americans of all ethnic groups deserve our
respect and understanding. This is not mere romanticism, which sometimes clouds
our knowledge of the history of American Indians, but a lesson to be learned from
the epic tragedies of the "Trail of Tears" and the early reservation system.
Overall, American Indians have much to teach us about balancing our infinite desire
for progress with the finite limits of our natural resources. As this country's first
conservationists, they saw themselves as stewards of the environment and believed a
state of balance with nature was right and good. It is this spirit that should guide us
in preserving the Earth for ourselves and our children.
Samuel K. Skinner
DEPARTMENT of TRANSPORTATION
THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590
UNITED STATES OF FAMERICA
November 20, 1991
MESSAGE TO THE SEVENTH ACCESS TO THE SKIES CONFERENCE
I am delighted to extend my best wishes to all those gathered in Seattle,
Washington, for the Seventh Access to the Skies Conference. While the Americans
with Disabilities Act has provided greater opportunities for citizens with disabilities
to contribute to the social and economic well-being of our Nation, I was recently
reminded that our society has a long way to go in understanding that abilities, not
disabilities, determine a person's potential.
Carmen Daniels is a 25 year-old Department of Transportation management intern
who is wheelchair assisted. Like most of her DOT colleagues, she has one clear goal:
to do the best job she possibly can. While the Department has done much to
accommodate her needs, she recently pointed out that "the greatest barriers were
not the inaccessible curbs or high ramps, but the barriers in other people's minds."
Her comment, unfortunately, is not unique. Consequently, while we seek to expand
accessibility for Americans with disabilities on our transportation systems, let us not
forget that people with disabilities share the same talents, intelligence and creativity
that others do; they just happen to use a guide dog or a wheelchair or wear a
hearing aid. The Access to the Skies Conference and others like it provide excellent
opportunities for the dissemination of information and education of the general
public. Through participation in these activities, we will move closer to making the
American dream of equality of opportunity a reality for Carmen and for 43 million
other Americans with disabilities.
The important contributions made by your organizations, and those of other
concerned individuals and groups, have helped Carmen and many others overcome
the barriers of misunderstanding and discrimination. For example, last year, the
National Organization on Disability commissioned a study probing the attitudes and
perceptions that nondisabled persons hold toward persons with disabilities. The
study revealed that the American people are willing to act immediately to enable
more people with disabilities to participate in society. More and more people,
therefore, are beginning to realize that citizens with disabilities are just like them,
but have special needs.
The Department of Transportation is trying to ensure that the Nation's
transportation systems will serve all our citizens, including those with disabilities.
Our March 1990 Air Carrier Access Rules and our September 1991 ADA rules mandate
improved access and prohibit discrimination against travelers with disabilities. Since
the Department is committed to making improvements in accessibility of the
Nation's air carrier system, we will strictly enforce these rules and resist any attempt
to weaken them. Together, with the help of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, the
Paralysis Society of America, the aviation industry and many other organizations, we
can make "the sky the limit" for people with disabilities.
Somuel K. Skinner
Samuel K. Skinner
THE SECRETARY ()I TRANSPORTATION
WASHINGTON DC 20590
ANDRA
STATE
October 3. 1991
MESSAGE TO THE PROPELLER CLUB OF THE UNITED STATES
I am delighted to send greetings to all those gathered in Brownsville, Texas, for the
65th Annual Convention of the Propeller Club of the United States and American
Merchant Marine and Maritime Industry Conference.
In a long and distinguished tradition, the merchant marine has played important
and historical roles as a catalyst for economic growth and as the Nation's "Fourth
Arm of Defense." Our country's experiences in the Revolutionary War, the War of
1812, two World Wars, the Korean conflict, Southeast Asia, and recently, the Persian
Gulf, have demonstrated repeatedly that the maintenance of a strong and efficient
merchant marine continues to be vital to our country's commerce and defense.
The importance of a merchant marine in America's national defense was first
demonstrated by the capture of over 600 British ships by armed American merchant
sailors during the Revolutionary War. In a report to Congress in 1793,
Thomas Jefferson said of our shipping operations: "As a branch of industry, it is
valuable; but as a resource of defense, essential."
Events in the Persian Gulf earlier this year underscore Thomas Jefferson's sentiment.
Many merchant mariners served on commercial ships during Operations Desert
Shield and Desert Storm while more than 3,000 civilian sailors manned the Ready
Reserve Force (RRF) vessels maintained by the Department of Transportation. In
addition, RRF ships also transported 20 percent of the waterborne military dry cargo
used by our troops. These accomplishments exemplify a legacy of patriotism and
service shared by generations of merchant mariners. As General Eisenhower put it in
1944: "When the final victory is ours, no organization will share its credit more
deservedly than the merchant marine."
Merchant mariners also deserve credit for America's past economic success and
prosperity. They brought goods and people from the East Coast to the West Coast
around the Horn and later by way of Panama, making possible the rapid
development of this country. Today, as we enter an era in which our ability to
compete internationally is critical to our economic vitality and quality of life, we
must continue to broaden the base of support for transportation, reinvigorate
investment, and tap new sources of idea and capital to meet the opportunities and
challenges of this decade and the years beyond.
During this conference, I urge you to explore and discuss new ways to promote cost
efficiency in the U.S. fleet, strengthen the fleet's competitive position in the
international market, and encourage necessary modernization and expansion. As
one of the largest organizations promoting all segments of the American Merchant
Marine, your leadership and knowledge will continue to be indispensable to
America's progress.
I join you in saluting the proud record of the merchant mariners who have
contributed so much to our country from its inception. Once again, my best wishes
for a successful meeting.
Somuel K. Skinner
Samuel K. Skinner
REMARKS PREPARED FOR DELIVERY BY
SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION SAMUEL K. SKINNER
VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
NOVEMBER 18, 1991
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Thank you John for the introduction. It is indeed a
real pleasure to be here today to honor our DOT
veterans.
On Veterans Day each year, Americans gather
between the white crosses of Arlington Cemetery, in
front of the black wall of the Vietnam Memorial, and at
other monuments and cemeteries across this land, to
solemnly honor the valor, courage, and sacrifice of our
veterans. In particular, we gather here today to pay
tribute to our own DOT veterans who have offered vital
support for our missions from bases at home and
around the world; men and women who stood ready at
a moment's notice to lay down their lives for our
country. We especially remember the cause for which
they have labored, and are here to ensure that their
efforts have not been in vain.
From World War I to Desert Storm, American military
personnel have risked their lives, their fortunes, and
their sacred honor to keep freedom safe. As we honor
our veterans, let us also renew our determination to
keep faith with those who have so selflessly served our
2
nation in giving "the last full measure of devotion" to
our country.
Abraham Lincoln reminds us, while honoring those
who died fighting under a July Gettysburg sun, that "in
a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we cannot
consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground" for the
"brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have
consecrated it far above our power to add or detract."
As Americans, we owe a great debt to all our military
veterans who have shown us -- in peacetime as well as in
times of strife -- that the only thing that exceeds the
price of their sacrifice is freedom itself. We must not,
and cannot, forget our indebtedness because of that
sacrifice; for without it, our nation cannot be sustained
or defended.
During two World Wars, and times of conflict since
then, America's veterans have not only protected the
national security interests of the United States, but have
defended human rights on the shores of other
countries.
Nearly 5 million American men and women served in
Europe during World War I so that the "world could be
made safe for democracy." The anniversary of the
signing of the Armistice for "The War to End All Wars"
3
shall always remind us of their heroic efforts and
unwavering patriotism.
Only 23 years after the signing of the Armistice, hopes
of eternal peace proved short-lived as members of the
United States Armed Forces were called up again to the
battle-scarred fields of Europe. During the Second
World War, American military personnel led the way in
defeating Nazi aggression. Other World War II veterans
made their stand for freedom in the Pacific and in North
Africa. Because of their courage, America went from its
greatest naval loss at Pearl Harbor nearly fifty years ago
to one of its greatest victories at Midway.
American men and women later returned to East Asia
and the Pacific during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
From 1950 to 1955, nearly seven million American
soldiers battled in Korea so that a nation could be at
peace. Nine years later, nine million more Americans
endured a living hell in the jungles, rice paddies, and
highlands of Vietnam.
And just months ago, hundreds of thousands of
Americans answered the call to duty so that Kuwait
could be liberated from tyranny. To them, and to all
those who have preceded them in answering the call to
serve, we thank you. Few people in this country have a
better right to this recognition.
4
Let me close with the words of President Lincoln, who
spoke to a mournful nation as gunshots echoed into
silent despair and as the smoke cleared before a war-
torn landscape. Even before the final notes of taps
faded for those who paid the ultimate price in
preserving the Union, this man from Illinois stood up,
and in the voice of compassion and care, said:
"With malice toward none; with charity for all;
with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see
the right, let us strive on to finish the work we
are in: to bind up the nation's wounds; to care
for him who shall have borne the battle, and
for his widow and his orphan, to do all which
may achieve and cherish a just and lasting
peace among ourselves, and with all nations."
Spoken more than a hundred years ago, these words
still inspire us. As eternally as the flame of liberty burns,
let us accord to all veterans our respect and dignity;
without them, even a nation as great as ours would not
endure.
It is therefore with great respect that I introduce you
to Vice Admiral James Stockdale. His 37 years of service
in the Navy exemplifies the best this country has to
offer. From his early retirement from military life in
1979, he had the distinction of being the only three star
5
officer in the history of the Navy, to wear both aviator
wings and the Congressional Medal of Honor.
As a civilian, Admiral Stockdale has been both a
college professor and president, and is now in his
seventh year as a senior research fellow at the Hoover
Intitution at Stanford University. He has also written
numerous books, among them In Love and War, which
was adapted for an NBC television movie in early 1987.
These accomplishment, however, do not offer
sufficient testimony to the endurance and iron will of a
man who was mercilessly tortured after he was shot
down and captured on a combat tour over North
Vietnam in 1965. Even as he lay on the concrete floor --
legs broken, eyes blindfolded, and hands cuffed --
Admiral Stockdale refused to betray his fellow
prisoners.
The courage of one of our greatest veterans inspires
us today just as he did nearly thirty years ago. Ladies
and gentlemen, may I present to you Admiral Stockdale.
###
REMARKS PREPARED FOR DELIVERY BY
SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION SAMUEL K. SKINNER
AMERICAN AIR MUSEUM FUND RAISER
WASHINGTON, D.C.
OCTOBER 15, 1991
Thank you Sir John for the introduction. I am
honored and delighted to be here to add my support for
the American Air Museum in Britain Campaign. It is also
a pleasure to visit again with so many of my friends.
Events earlier this year show that America's destiny
and interests are intertwined with those of England. It
is not by chance that we have usually found ourselves in
the same camp. Through the years, our peoples, who
respect individual liberty, have stood together when a
totalitarian regime has tried to impose itself upon the
world and upon free people. Once again, the strong
bonds between our two countries in peace have been
renewed in times of war. I would like to pay a grateful
tribute to the British people and the British soldiers, to
the statesmen and generals who contributed so much to
the coalition victory in the Persian Gulf.
On occasions of this kind, we discover what is
important and what is lasting as a friendship between
the United States and England. We see and hear the
fundamental principle upon which international accord
is built. While Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union are
undergoing turmoil as they endure the birth pangs of
2
democracy, our minds are often troubled and
apprehensive about the future of our world.
If there is any certainty in this uncertain world, it is
that each succeeding generation will witness greater
cooperation among nations. There is no confusion and
no uncertainty here, however. Tonight, a great
endeavor comes closer to being realized -- a museum
that will stand as a memorial to our cooperation and
pay tribute to the thousands of U.S. airmen who served
from bases in Britain in World War II.
(DISCUSS INVOLVEMENT IN PROJECT AND MENTION
TRIP TO DUXFORD.)
This museum will be a worthy addition to a
progressive and dynamic city. It will have one of the
finest and most comprehensive collections of U.S.
military aircraft outside the United States. But there will
be something far more important than the architecture,
cement, steel, and glass of an attractive building. This
museum will educate and inform all those who pass
through its door that military instruments and
technology can never replace the will to fight for a just
cause, that the sovereignty of freedom and justice has
to be upheld not by sentiments or words, but by staunch
and valiant deeds of our men and women.
3
Because when people have come to learn of the
courage, heroism, and sacrifice that have made possible
their privilege of living in a democracy, they will
experience a devotion to the great cause of human
freedom which has been the paramount objective of
the American and British systems of government.
In 1941, Winston Churchill said, "The destiny of
mankind is not decided by material computation. When
great causes are on the move in the world, we learn we
are spirits, not animals, and that something is going on
in space and time, which whether we like it or not spells
duty." I believe that we have a clear duty, a duty to
preserve these beautiful and awesome aircraft and
instruments so that we and generations to come may
marvel at the talents of our intrepid pilots and their
crew. And just as important, so that we may be inspired
to hope and work for the day when we will be allowed
to create instruments of peace, and not instruments of
war.
Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for attending the
festivities tonight. Events like this show the capacity of
our peoples to think anew and act together. Let us
hope that we will meet again soon at the dedication of
the American Air Museum in Britain.
REMARKS PREPARED FOR DELIVERY BY
SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION SAMUEL K. SKINNER
WELCOMING CEREMONY FOR ARRIVAL OF VIKING SHIPS
OCTOBER 9, 1991
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Thank you Vice President Walter Mondale for your
introduction. It is indeed an honor to share the podium
with so many distinguished and eminent guests, notably
Her Majesty Queen Sonja of Norway and President
Vigdis Finnbogadottir (VIG-DEESE FIN-BO-GOD-DOT-
TEAR) of Iceland. On behalf of the United States
government, I would like to welcome Captain Thorseth
(TOR-SET) and his crew to Washington. I would also like
to greet you (and perhaps entertain you) with some
greetings in your native languages:
"Norske Venner velkomen til Washington."
NOR-SKA VEN-NER VEL-KO-MEN TIL WASHINGTON.
(Norwegian friends welcome to Washington.)
"Kaeru Islencku vinir verid velkomen til Washington."
KAI-RAW EESE-LEN-SKA VEE-NEAR VER-RID
VEL-KO-MEN TIL WASHINGTON
(Icelandic friends welcome to Washington.)
For years, the people of Scandinavia have occupied a
special place in the hearts of all Americans because we
are bound by ties to a colorful and rich past in which the
Vikings have played a particularly special part. Familiar
names in U.S. history and geography were given by
Scandinavian settlers. Several of our major cities
2
contain large populations of Americans of Scandinavian
descent who play a prominent role in all facets of our
business, cultural, and political life. My hometown,
Chicago, has one of the largest populations of
Americans of Scandinavian descent. In fact, we even
have a football team in Minnesota called the Vikings.
During the past weeks, Americans followed the
progress of your Viking ships across the Atlantic Ocean
and down the American coastline with a sense of
fascination and excitement. Your reenactment of Leif
Erikson's discovery of North America pays tribute to the
historical ties that have united our countries and adds a
unique perspective to understanding the Vikings' arrival
on this continent a millennium ago.
It is good to be here today for another reason. Many
nations, including our own, are facing challenges of
great magnitude. The world is restless with change in
its political and economic life.
Occasions such as this, therefore, are good for all of
us, not because they provide an escape from national
and international problems, but rather because they
direct our attention simply and clearly to the creative
and adventurous spirit evident in Nordic and American
history.
3
Just as Eric the Red ventured from Scandinavia and
discovered Greenland, his son Leif Erikson continued
onward and charted a course to the New World that
would one day be followed by generations of explorers,
traders, and immigrants. The adventures of these early
sailors emphasize the fact that we cannot afford to be
complacent -- complacent about our peoples, our laws,
and not in the least, our land and natural resources.
You may recall a couple years back when Time
Magazine named Earth the "planet of the year." And
comedian Jay Leno said, "What do you expect? All the
judges came from Earth." More seriously though, as
President Bush has stressed time and time again: "We
don't inherit the Earth from our parents. We borrow it
from our children." Let us therefore, renew our
commitment to protecting the environment around the
world because pollution knows no boundaries and
affects us all deeply. This is precisely the challenge that
stands before us as we approach the 1992 United
Nations Conference on Environment and Development
in Rio De Janiero: the search for a balance between
man's infinite quest for progress and the finite limits of
our natural resources.
In closing, I would like to quote Henrik Ibsen (HEN-
REEK EB-SON), the great Norwegian playwright and
poet, who said, "A community is like a ship. Everyone
4
ought to be prepared to take the helm." As captain and
crews of ships, you perhaps understand the importance
of this much more than others do. We all realize fully,
however, that it is cooperation in the spirit of adventure
and leadership which gives assurance to the people of
our nations that difficult problems confronting them
will be met courageously and intelligently. In this spirit,
we may chart the courses of our countries with the same
determination and optimism for the future as the
Vikings did one thousand years ago.
Thank you ladies and gentlemen for allowing me this
opportunity to have a part in honoring those who have
made this achievement possible. It is my hope that in
the years to come, contacts between our countries will
continue to increase, so that many Americans will
continue to visit your countries and be as warmly
welcomed there as we are welcoming you today.
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
06. Resume
Re: Cary Allen Brazeman; contains personal information. (2
n.d.
P-6, (b)(6)
pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Snow, Robert Anthony (Tony)
Subseries:
Subject File
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
[Resumes - White House Speechwriters]
Date Closed:
12/23/2004
OA/ID Number:
08677
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2005-0485-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2138 California St., N.W.
Apt. 304
Washington, DC 20008
February 20, 1992
Mr. Robert A. Snow
Deputy Assistant to the President
Room 122
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street & Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. Snow:
Mary Kate Grant suggested I send you my resume and speechwriting
samples -- given the opening on your staff and my background experience.
I encourage you to review these materials, and I look forward to
hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Cary A.Brazem Cary A. Brazeman A.
CARY ALLEN BRAZEMAN
2138 California St., N.W., Apt. 304
Washington, DC 20008
EXPERIENCE
National Realty Committee, Washington, DC
Director of Communications
Serve as communications counsel for this public affairs/lobbying group representing the leaders
of America's commercial real estate industry on national public policy issues affecting capital
and credit, taxes, the environment and investments. Advise executive staff and elected
membership on the development and communication of important organizational messages to key
audiences - the membership, the Washington policymaking community, the press, and the
general public. Coordinate editorial and production functions of all organization publications and
many member communications and marketing materials. Write and edit speeches, op-ed pieces
and Congressional testimony. Serve as media liaison with the national and trade press. Coordinate
communications projects with related trade groups.
Notable Accomplishments: Drafted historic public policy/press statement issued jointly by the
dozen national industry groups; offered effective strategy for communicating evolving
organizational identity; initiated proactive, targeted media relations campaign to promote NRC
and its views on public policy matters. (1990-present)
National Cooperative Bank, Washington, DC
Assistant Vice President, Public Relations
Served as public information officer for this $400 million national financial services company.
Worked proactively with banking and financial press to place NCB sources in the media.
Represented NCB at various business development functions and forums. Analyzed and
interpreted public opinion, issues and current events for strategic relevance and importance to
long-term planning and corporate positioning. Drafted corporate communications such as
quarterly earnings releases and marketing section of annual report. Assisted in coordination of
departmental budget. Edited company newsletter. Assisted in writing and editing of advertising
and direct mail copy.
Notable Accomplishments: Designed and initiated national media relations program; established
regular schedule of producing necessary corporate communications such as financial press
releases; redesigned and reformatted company newsletter for employees; offered timely analysis
and suggested courses of action for management on several pertinent issues. (1989-1990)
The Washington Post Company, Washington, DC
Editor and Assistant Speechwriter
Served as editor of "The Company Behind the News," the monthly newsletter for managers of
this diversified media company that owns The Washington Post newspaper, Newsweek magazine,
television stations and cable systems. Coordinated all elements of production, researched and
wrote stories, edited and directed efforts of other contributors, negotiated with story sources and
management for approval of story content. Also assisted in speechwriting for Chairman Katharine
Photocopy-Preservation
BRAZEMAN/RESUME/2
Graham, then-President Richard D. Simmons, and corporate executives, as well as in preparation
of press releases and the annual report.
Notable Accomplishments: Served as the impetus for the implementation of desktop publishing,
a technology that has saved the company over $10,000 a year on publication production. (1988-
1989)
Newsday, Washington, DC
Reporter/Intern
Reported to the news editor of the Washington bureau of this Long Island, NY, daily newspaper.
Researched and wrote stories on a daily basis, covering Congressional hearings including the
Iran-Contra debate. (1987)
EDUCATION
BA, Government and American History, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
Named "Best Writer in the Campus Press"
Northside High School, Atlanta, GA
OTHER TRAINING AND ACTIVITIES
Presenter, American Society of Association Executives Annual Leadership Conference,
Communications Section (1991)
American Management Association's "Crisis Communications Seminar (1991)
American Management Association's Advanced Public Relations Seminar (1989)
Advertising Age magazine's "Workshop on Creativity" (1989)
American Institute of Banking (1989)
NBC News Investigative Reporters and Editors Conference (1986)
REFERENCES AND WRITING SAMPLES
Available on Request
Photocopy-Preservation
MAIN WRITER ON THIS
Katharine Graham - Inter-State Circ. Managers' Assn. - 10/16/88
Good evening. It's a great pleasure to be here with such a
dedicated group of circulation managers. It's also a pleasure to
share the stage with someone as caring and committed to this
business as Jake Terrell. To all of us at The Post he is an
inspiration -- a testament to hard work and outstanding service.
Jake is probably too modest to talk about it, but earlier this year
he received the Eugene Meyer Award, The Post's highest honor for
distinguished service.
My attachment to circulation goes way back. Years ago, when I was
pregnant with my son Don -- now publisher of The Post -- I remember
my father looking for a place to put me at the paper that wouldn't
cause too much stress or strain. They settled on the complaint desk
in circulation, thinking it would be a quiet assignment. How wrong
they were. It was my first job during the war, and to call it
exciting is an understatement. Even now, whenever someone corners
me about delivery, I still go into my act! Address? Zip code? Daily
or Sunday? Some things you never forget.
That job marked the beginning of a long love affair with the
circulation department. To me there's nothing more romantic than
standing in The Post alley in the early morning hours, watching the
distributors' trucks load up.
I didn't always feel this way, however. Back in 1937, I wrote my
sister a letter about the nature of the work I might do for my
father at The Post. I wanted to report, I said, and not get mixed
up in the business side of the paper. "I detest beyond description
advertising and circulation," I wrote, "and that is what a
newspaper executive spends most of his time worrying about." "
Needless to say, once at the paper, I quickly changed my mind.
Today I love advertising and circulation.
Over the years, my passion for circulation has only increased. With
your help, I've learned some important lessons and come to
understand better how much circulation means to our business.
Tonight I want to share some of these lessons with you.
First, circulation is the lifeline of our business. There are more
than 1,600 daily newspapers in this country, with an average daily
circulation of 62.8 million. Imagine the task of delivering almost
63 million newspapers a day without a skilled circulation force!
No one had to tell me how vital circulation was in the old days
either. When we trailed the Washington Times-Herald by 180,000, the
future looked very bleak. Even after The Post bought the Times-
Herald in 1954 -- thus assuring our survival -- circulation
remained a critical concern. The production department had not yet
hit its stride, and we had to rely on circulation to take up the
slack.
It was a struggle, but our circulation department rose to the
challenge time and again. I so appreciated their efforts that I
joined them on the loading dock as often as I could, just to let
them know how much we relied on them. I recall one of the
distributors saying, "Come over here dear," and sweetly calling me
"Mother Superior" -- which I took as a compliment. Those guys
weren't bad poker players, either.
A second lesson I've learned is that circulation knows the readers.
Circulation managers and distributors receive reader reaction in
the most direct way, so they have a good sense of what the readers
like and don't like. That puts them in a good position to point out
what we're doing right and what we're doing wrong.
For example, when The Post's sports section was struggling, our
circulation managers were first to call attention to the problem.
Men like Harry Gladstein have always filled that role, speaking up
for readers. We began to invite circulation managers to the
editor's afternoon conference in the newsroom. We still maintain
the practice, informative to both departments. Aware of the hot
news stories, circulation can then target copies and boost sales.
I might add that circulation's necessary involvement in all aspects
THE CX. hash
of the paper has demanded better-trained managers. There are more
management options in circulation than ever before. And thanks to
the leadership of people like Frank Manzon and
, circulation's
new generation is sharp and well-tested.
A third lesson you've taught me is that to succeed, circulation
must adapt to changes in the industry and the marketplace that have
affected all areas of the business. Today, for example, many of us
have expanded areas to serve. In suburban Fairfax County, Virginia,
which now has a population of 710,000, one Post distributor used
to cover the entire county 40 years ago. He'd log 125 miles a
night, delivering several hundred papers. Don once asked him what
part of the county he worked. His answer: "all of it. " Today, 61
distributors cover that same territory, serving 139,000 daily
subscribers reliably and efficiently.
As Don likes to say, today's outlying area is tomorrow's suburb.
He should know, having started out as a trainee riding a truck with
a distributor in Prince George's County, Maryland. He, too, will
tell you that it is our circulation managers who stay on top of
growth -- measuring it, monitoring it and mounting a battle plan
to capitalize on it.
Getting the newspaper to people on time also presents a bigger
challenge than ever before. The situation has changed dramatically
since Mary Bailey, an 88-year old resident of Maryland, started
reading The Post in 1910. She recently wrote us saying she believes
she is the oldest living subscriber of The Post. In the early part
of this century, she used to get the paper a day late, "but no one
seemed to mind," she said. Back then, the paper was delivered to
upper Montgomery County, where she lives, by train and mail -- the
fastest way possible. Getting the news to the farthest reaches of
our market a day late today would put us out of business in a
hurry.
Not long ago rush hour started at 6:30. Today, people leave for
work even earlier to beat the bumper-to-bumper traffic. To ensure
that the paper is read and remains at home -- the basis of any home
delivery strategy -- readers must get their newspapers earlier.
You've responded, getting delivery trucks on the road as early as
3 or 4 in the morning to satisfy the demand.
Another weightier challenge was brought home to me recently. Just
last winter I encountered the wife of Supreme Court Justice Antonin
Scalia. She was recovering from a broken arm and explained that her
injury was incurred in the line of duty. What duty?, I asked.
Helping her son fulfill his delivery route for The Post, she
replied.
Since running into Mrs. Scalia, I've decided that maybe we should
start sending all of our carriers to Redskins training camp. That
would certainly toughen them up.
Heavier papers are taking their toll, discouraging younger people,
especially, from becoming carriers. That's a shame, and I hope it
doesn't deter too many of them. After all, delivering newspapers
is still a fine way for young people to develop responsibility and
character. My good friend Warren Buffett, a former director of The
Washington Post Company, was a Post carrier as a student. Warren
now is one of the richest men in America. His earnings as a
newspaper carrier provided the stake that started him on the path
to a multibillion dollar fortune.
of course when Warren was a Post carrier, competition for the
readers' time wasn't quite so intense. Television was in its
infancy -- it wasn't the easy-access package of sound bites and
visual messages that it is today. In those days we were able to
build a competitive edge that television threatens to take away.
And that, in my view, represents our toughest new challenge.
You and I know that the great strength of a newspaper over
television is our ability to provide a complete package of news and
information. We tell the whole story, filling in the blanks,
fleshing out the facts. Your success as circulation managers will
depend on selling that point to readers.
In closing, I hope I have conveyed to you tonight a little of the
appreciation and affection I feel for circulation managers, the
front line troops in the battle to keep newspapers strong and
growing. As our lifeline to the readers, circulation has, kept its
finger on the pulse of the community, alerting us to its changing
needs. Together we have come out winners because you know that the
one fundamental challenge of circulation will always stay the same:
deliver the paper fast and convince the other guy -- the one who's
not a subscriber -- that he needs the total package of news and
information a newspaper represents. That is a formidable goal, but
for accepting it and fulfilling it with extraordinary skill and
dedication, I commend you all.
Final
ASSISTED MAIN WRITER on THIS
KATHARINE GRAHAM - SHULTZ TOAST - JANUARY 9, 1989
GOOD EVENING. TONIGHT, I'VE BEEN ASKED TO SPEAK OF GEORGE SHULTZ
AS A FRIEND, TENNIS PARTNER -- AND ESPECIALLY AS ONE OF THOSE
RARE PREEMINENT INDIVIDUALS WHO MOVE BETWEEN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE
LIFE, AND ON WHOM THE PROGRESS OF OUR COUNTRY SO GREATLY DEPENDS.
THIS GEORGE SHULTZ IS A MAN OF MANY VIRTUES AND A FEW FLAWS, I'M
SURE -- HIS BACKHAND VOLLEY COMES IMMEDIATELY TO MIND, BUT ABOVE
ALL HE IS DEFINED BY THREE CHARACTERISTICS.
FIRST, HE IS A MAN OF HIGH PRINCIPLE, THIS IS MOST CLEARLY SEEN
OVER THE YEARS THROUGH HIS SOMETIMES UNPOPULAR STANDS, As DEAN
OF THE CHICAGO BUSINESS SCHOOL, HE ENRAGED DEMONSTRATING STUDENTS
AND FACULTY BY ALLOWING Dow CHEMICAL TO EXPRESS ITS RIGHT OF FREE
SPEECH AND RECRUIT ON CAMPUS.
2.
HE CHALLENGED PRESIDENT NIXON ON THE USE OF WAGE AND PRICE
CONTROLS.
HE ALSO REFUSED TO POSE WITH A CHART ON UNEMPLOYMENT SO DEVISED
THAT A SMALL MONTHLY DIP IN THE JOBLESS RATE LOOKED LIKE A
SPECTACULAR DROP. "IT'S A DISHONEST CHART, AND I WON'T DO IT,"
HE SAID QUIETLY.
HE SAID NO TO PRESIDENT REAGAN'S LIE-DETECTOR TESTS AND ARGUED
AGAINST THE IRANIAN ARMS SALE, ALTHOUGH HE WAS NOT ABLE TO
PREVENT IT.
MOST RECENTLY, OF COURSE, HE PROVOKED A CERTAIN AND VEHEMENT
CONTROVERSY WHEN HE PERSONALLY REFUSED TO ALLOW YASIR ARAFAT INTO
THIS COUNTRY TO ADDRESS THE U.N. HE HAS ON THIS AND SOME OTHER
OCCASIONS HAD THE AUDACITY EVEN TO TAKE MEASURES OTHER THAN THOSE
ADVISED BY WASHINGTON POST EDITORIALS.
3.
I HAVE TO ADMIT, TOO, THAT GEORGE'S HIGH PRINCIPLES HAVE CAUSED A
CERTAIN AMOUNT OF PERSONAL FRUSTRATION. DESPITE THE MANY HOURS
WE SPENT TOGETHER IN HIS CAR GOING TO AND FROM TENNIS GAMES,' HE
NEVER ONCE LEAKED ANY INFORMATION TO ME!
THAT BRINGS ME TO A SECOND DEFINING CHARACTERISTIC. GEORGE
SHULTZ IS A MAN OF COURAGE -- AND I'M NOT TALKING ABOUT HIS
CHOICE OF BROCADED EVENING ATTIRE!
As SECRETARY OF LABOR, HE CHOSE TO INVESTIGATE THE SHOCKING
MURDER OF JOCK YABLONSKI, WHO DARED TO RUN FOR PRESIDENT OF THE
UNITED MINE WORKERS AGAINST TONY BOYLE.
As SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY, HE REFUSED TO COMPLY WITH THE NIXON
ADMINISTRATION'S DESIRE TO USE THE IRS TO HARASS ITS ENEMIES.
4.
ON A DIFFERENT LEVEL, DURING WATERGATE GEORGE CONTINUED TO COME
TO MY HOUSE FOR DINNER AFTER IT HAD BEEN OFFICIALLY PROSCRIBED --
AND HE EVEN INVITED ME TO PLAY TENNIS ON THE WHITE HOUSE COURT.
MORE IMPORTANT, HE PREVENTED THE FIRING OF MY DAUGHTER-IN-LAW, WHO
WAS DISCOVERED BY THE ADMINISTRATION WORKING IN THE BOWELS OF OMB
REVIEWING THE DISTRICT'S BUDGET,
FINALLY, GEORGE SHULTZ IS A MAN OF WISDOM. As SUCH, HE IS AN
INTENSE AND EXCELLENT LISTENER. HE IS PASSIONATELY DEVOTED TO
THE STUDY OF ISSUES. NATURALLY HE SEES THE INEVITABLE LINKS
BETWEEN A SUCCESSFUL FOREIGN POLICY AND A SUCCESSFUL ECONOMIC
POLICY. HE HAS CREATED POLICIES THAT ARE FARSIGHTED AND FIRM --
STRATEGIC CONCEPTS CARRIED OUT WITH PRAGMATISM.
5.
AND HIS WISDOM HAS GIVEN HIM A RARE PERSPECTIVE NOT ONLY ON THE
PRESENT BUT ALSO ON WHAT LIES AHEAD. HE UNDERSTANDS, AS FEW
OTHERS DO, HOW EXPANDING GLOBAL ECONOMIC TIES -- COUPLED WITH
INSTANT TRANSMISSION OF INFORMATION -- ARE CHANGING THE NATURE OF
OUR WORLD AND EVEN ALTERING THE CONCEPT OF SOVEREIGNTY.
GEORGE ONCE SAID: "You CAN'T DO THE IMPOSSIBLE, BUT YOU MUST
STRIVE FOR THE VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE." SUCH HIGH STANDARDS WILL
BRING SOME DISAPPOINTMENTS. BUT MORE OFTEN THAN NOT, GEORGE'S
UNIQUE BLEND OF PRINCIPLE, COURAGE AND WISDOM HAS TURNED THE
VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE INTO THE SEEMINGLY INEVITABLE. HE AND OBIE,
WHO HAS INSPIRED US WITH HER STAUNCH SPIRIT AND ENDURANCE, AND
WHOM WE'VE ALL WATCHED TRUDGING AROUND, AND AROUND, AND AROUND
THE WORLD, CLIMBING IN AND OUT OF AIRPLANES -- ARE THE
QUINTESSENCE OF PUBLIC SERVICE,
SOLE WRITER
DRAFT
STATEMENT OF STEVEN A. WECHSLER
PRESIDENT, NATIONAL REALTY COMMITTEE
BEFORE THE HOUSE BUDGET COMMITTEE
TASK FORCE ON URGENT FISCAL ISSUES
NOVEMBER 21, 1992
MR. CHAIRMAN, MEMBERS OF THE TASK FORCE, GOOD MORNING.
My NAME IS STEVEN A. WECHSLER, AND I'M PRESIDENT OF
NATIONAL REALTY COMMITTEE. NRC SERVES AS REAL ESTATE'S
ROUNDTABLE IN WASHINGTON, WHERE IT FOCUSES FULL-TIME ON
NATIONAL POLICIES AFFECTING CAPITAL AND CREDIT, TAXES, THE
ENVIRONMENT AND INVESTMENTS. OUR MEMBERS ARE AMERICA'S
LEADING REAL ESTATE OWNERS, ADVISORS, BUILDERS, INVESTORS,
LENDERS AND MANAGERS.
REAL ESTATE'S ROUNDTABLE APPRECIATES THE OPPORTUNITY
OFFERED BY THIS HEARING. EVERY DAY OUR LIVES ARE AFFECTED
IN ONE WAY OR ANOTHER BY REAL ESTATE. No OTHER RESOURCE OR
INDUSTRY TOUCHES SO MANY OF US IN so MANY WAYS. OUR LAND,
1
BUILDINGS, AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROVIDE THE SETTING AND
CONTEXT IN WHICH WE LIVE, WORK, PLAY, COMMUNICATE,
TRAVEL, ENTERTAIN, AND GROW.
So PERVASIVE AND FUNDAMENTAL IS REAL ESTATE TO THE WAY WE
LIVE, THAT WE OFTEN TAKE THIS IMPORTANT NATIONAL RESOURCE
FOR GRANTED. YET REAL ESTATE -- VALUED AT $12 TRILLION -
- IS AMERICA'S GREATEST TANGIBLE CAPITAL ASSET. REAL
ESTATE GENERATES MORE THAN TWO-THIRDS OF THE TAXES RAISED
BY LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO SUPPORT SCHOOLS, HOSPITALS, ROADS,
AND OTHER ESSENTIAL SERVICES. THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY,
ALTHOUGH MADE UP OF RELATIVELY SMALL BUSINESSES, PRODUCES
ABOUT $575 BILLION OF GOODS AND SERVICES THIS YEAR, WHILE
EMPLOYING MORE THAN EIGHT MILLION PEOPLE. AND REAL
ESTATE, WHETHER IT BE OUR HOMES, FARMS, PARKS, FACTORIES,
COMMERCIAL OR PUBLIC BUILDINGS, IS AN ASSET DIRECTLY OR
INDIRECTLY OWNED BY A CROSS SECTION OF AMERICANS.
2
WHEN REAL ESTATE SUFFERS, so DO PEOPLE AND BUSINESSES IN
ALL WALKS OF LIFE. AND THAT'S WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW.
REAL ESTATE IS IN TROUBLE
AS ARE THE BANKS
OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES -- AND THE ECONOMY
AND, FROM OUR POINT OF VIEW, WE'VE NOT YET HIT BOTTOM.
TODAY'S ENVIRONMENT HAS SEVERE CONSEQUENCES. BUSINESS
FAILURES SOAR. FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS WEAKEN. QUANTITIES
OF THE NATION'S WEALTH DISAPPEAR AS HOME VALUES ERODE.
AND STATE AND LOCAL TAX REVENUES -- ALREADY STRAINED FROM
FEDERAL CUTBACKS AND THE RECESSION -- DRY UP.
How WE ARRIVED AT THIS JUNCTURE IS NO SIMPLE STORY, BUT
I'LL TELL IT QUICKLY! THEN I'LL OFFER OUR
RECOMMENDATIONS, FIRST, FOR STABILIZING THE REAL ESTATE AND
3
FINANCIAL SECTORS, AND SECOND, FOR GROWING THE NATIONAL
ECONOMY -- AS WE'D ALL LIKE TO SEE HAPPEN.
IN SHORT, A COMBINATION OF BADLY FLAWED NATIONAL POLICIES
AND POOR BUSINESS JUDGEMENTS ARE AT THE ROOT OF TODAY'S
PROBLEMS.
THE LAST DECADE STARTED WITH SIGNIFICANT INFLATION -- AND
RESULTED IN A FALSE BELIEF BY MANY -- INCLUDING NATIONAL
POLICY MAKERS -- THAT REAL ESTATE COULD ONLY GO UP IN VALUE
-- AND NOT DOWN. ON THE HEELS OF THIS INFLATION CONGRESS
ENACTED THE 1981 TAX LAW CONTAINING EXCESSIVE TAX
INCENTIVES FOR REAL ESTATE -- SOMETHING VOCIFEROUSLY
OPPOSED BY NRC. THEN A FLOOD OF REAL ESTATE FINANCE WAS
UNLEASHED BY DEREGULATION OF THE THRIFT INDUSTRY. ALL THIS
TOOK PLACE IN THE MIDST OF THE GREATEST DEMAND FOR REAL
ESTATE IN DECADES -- FUELED BY THE BABY BOOM GENERATION
4
COMING ON-LINE; RAPID TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND
RELATED NEW REQUIREMENTS IN BUILDINGS; OBSOLESCENCE OF
OLDER BUILDINGS; AND THE SHIFT FROM A MANUFACTURING TO A
MORE SERVICE-ORIENTED ECONOMY. THEN, IN 1986 WE HAD THE
INEVITABLE OVERREACTION -- THE 1986 TAX ACT THAT WENT T00
FAR IN THE OTHER DIRECTION AND WHOSE NEGATIVE EFFECTS ARE
NOW BEING INCREASINGLY RECOGNIZED; AND, FINALLY, IN THE
PAST TWO YEARS WE'VE SEEN BANK REGULATORY POLICIES THAT
OVERREACTED TO WEAKENED MARKET CONDITIONS AND QUESTIONABLE
LENDING PRACTICES -- PRECIPITATING A LIQUIDITY CRISIS FOR
REAL ESTATE OF MAMMOTH PROPORTIONS.
THE NET EFFECT OF ALL THESE DEVELOPMENTS IS A MUCH MORE
PRONOUNCED REAL ESTATE DOWNTURN THAN OTHERWISE WOULD HAVE
HAPPENED. I SAY "MUCH MORE PRONOUNCED" BECAUSE I DO
BELIEVE SOME SORT OF A NATURAL DOWN CYCLE WAS INEVITABLE,
AS REAL ESTATE ALWAYS HAS BEEN A CYCLICAL BUSINESS.
BUT TODAY'S "BUST" CYCLE IS A NEAR DEPRESSION, MADE WORSE
BY A PERVERSE COMBINATION OF NATIONAL POLICIES THAT ARE
CAUSING CAPITAL FLIGHT FROM REAL ESTATE. IN THIS
ENVIRONMENT FINANCING FOR EVEN HEALTHY, EXISTING REAL
ESTATE ASSETS IS VIRTUALLY NONEXISTENT. VALUES ARE IN A
FREEFALL. AND, AS A RESULT, THE MARKETPLACE IS HIGHLY
UNSTABLE AND LARGELY DYSFUNCTIONAL.
AND I WANT TO EMPHASIZE THAT OUR MAIN CONCERN IS NOT THE
SHORTAGE OF CREDIT OR CAPITAL FOR SPECULATIVE REAL ESTATE
DEVELOPMENT. RIGHTFULLY, ITS BACK HAS BEEN BROKEN
AND IS UNLIKELY TO RETURN.
ON THE CONTRARY, TODAY'S MAIN PROBLEM IS A SEVERE LIQUIDITY
CRISIS FOR EXISTING REAL ESTATE ASSETS AND A RELUCTANCE OF
6
LENDERS TO REFINANCE EVEN STANDING LOANS ON PERFORMING
PROPERTIES.
How BIG IS THIS PROBLEM? BASED ON DATA FROM THE FEDERAL
RESERVE, OF THE $400 BILLION IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
MORTGAGES ON BANKS' BOOKS, ABOUT $200 BILLION IS MATURING
OVER THE NEXT 18-24 MONTHS. APPROXIMATELY 80 PERCENT,
OR $160 BILLION OF THESE LOANS, ARE NOT LIKELY TO BE
RESOLVED IN A LONG-TERM FASHION -- THAT IS, THEY'RE NOT
LIKELY TO FIND PERMANENT FINANCING OR BE ROLLED OVER FOR A
SIGNIFICANT PERIOD OF TIME. AND THERE'S NO REPLACEMENT
CAPITAL TO TAKE OUT THE BANKS -- THE INSURANCE, THRIFT,
PENSION, AND FOREIGN SECTORS ARE ALL TRENDING DOWN. WITH
NO DEVELOPED PUBLIC MARKET FOR COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE DEBT
OR EQUITY
THE BANKS' HOLDINGS AND THE VALUES
FREEFALL BECOME A NATIONAL PROBLEM.
7
9
THIS BODES ILL FOR THE BANKING SYSTEM, WHICH IS LIKELY TO
END UP OWNING MORE PROPERTY. IT BODES ILL FOR THE FEDERAL
GOVERNMENT, WHICH IS LIKELY TO END UP IN CONTROL OF MORE
FAILED BANKS. AND IT BODES ILL FOR TAXPAYERS, WHO WILL
EVENTUALLY FOOT THE BILL FOR CLEANING UP THE MESS.
CLEARLY, SOMETHING MUST BE DONE TO ASSURE NECESSARY
LIQUIDITY LEVELS FOR THE NATION'S REAL ESTATE, AND
BREATHING ROOM FOR THE NATION'S BANKS. WE NEED
COORDINATED POLICY ACTION AND CONSTRUCTIVE NATIONAL
LEADERSHIP -- NOT BAND-AIDS OR COSMETIC SURGERY -- AND WE
NEED IT NOW TO STOP THE HEMORRHAGING.
THE GOAL SHOULD BE AN ORDERLY TRANSITION PERIOD DURING
WHICH THE ECONOMY, THE BANKING SYSTEM AND REAL ESTATE CAN
MOVE TO A NEW EQUILIBRIUM -- CHARACTERIZED BY DISCIPLINED
8
LENDING, SENSIBLE BORROWING, RATIONAL TAX POLICY, AND A
HEALTHY AND SOUND MARKETPLACE.
To ACHIEVE A MARKET THAT WORKS FOR REAL ESTATE OWNERS,
LENDERS AND BORROWERS, WE OFFER SEVERAL RECOMMENDATIONS,
WHICH ARE OUTLINED IN OUR WHITE PAPER, ADDRESSING THE
CREDIT CRISIS: NATIONAL POLICY OPTIONS. (HOLD IT UP.)
FIRST, WE NEED TO CULTIVATE ADDITIONAL CAPITAL AND CREDIT
SOURCES TO FILL THE VOID LEFT BY BANKS, AND TO HELP BANKS
MORE EFFECTIVELY REDUCE THEIR REAL ESTATE EXPOSURE OVER
TIME. WE SUGGEST THAT CONGRESS MODIFY A NUMBER OF TAX
LAWS THAT NOW IMPEDE PRUDENT PENSION CAPITAL INVESTMENT IN
REAL ESTATE. WE ALSO SUGGEST CHANGES TO FACILITATE A
STRONGER SECONDARY MARKET FOR COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE DEBT
AND EQUITY.
9
SECOND, WE NEED REGULATORY BALANCE IN THE LENDING
ENVIRONMENT. WE SUGGEST A DELAY IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE BANK CAPITAL STANDARDS ADOPTED IN BASLE, A MODIFICATION
OF THE RISK-WEIGHTING FORMULA NOW BEING IMPLEMENTED WHICH
RESULTS IN CREDIT ALLOCATION -- NAKEDLY FAVORING LENDING TO
THE GOVERNMENT OVER BUSINESS LOANS FOR AMERICAN TAXPAYERS
AND A REVISION OF THE INSUBSTANCE FORECLOSURE RULES AS THEY
APPLY TO REAL ESTATE LOANS.
THIRD, WE NEED RATIONAL POLICIES THAT TAX REAL ESTATE
FAIRLY AND FACILITATE PRUDENT INVESTMENT IN REAL ESTATE
ASSETS. WE SUGGEST MODIFYING THE CURRENT PASSIVE LOSS
RULES so THAT REAL ESTATE IS TAXED LIKE ALL OTHER
BUSINESSES, AS H.R. 1414 WOULD DO; CUTTING THE CAPITAL
GAINS TAX RATE; AND MODIFYING TAX RULES THAT UNFAIRLY
PENALIZE REAL ESTATE DEBT RESTRUCTURINGS OR WORKOUTS.
IN
10
PARTICULAR, TWO BILLS INTRODUCED BY REPRESENTATIVE SHAW
SHOULD BE ENACTED QUICKLY: H.R. 3651 AND H.R. 3652.
IN CONCLUSION, IT'S OUR VIEW THAT DESPITE TENTATIVE AND
WELL-MEANING RECENT STEPS IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION BY THE
BUSH ADMINISTRATION, TODAY'S CREDIT CRISIS PERSISTS AND IN
SOME AREAS CONTINUES TO WORSEN. WHAT WE BELIEVE IS NEEDED
IS IMMEDIATE, CAREFULLY COORDINATED ACTION --- BY THE
ADMINISTRATION AND CONGRESS -- AS SET FORTH IN REP.
MORAN'S AMENDMENT TO THE BANKING BILL -- TO ADDRESS THE
EXISTING PROBLEMS THAT CONFRONT THE ECONOMY AS WELL AS REAL
ESTATE AND FINANCIAL SECTORS. ONLY BY STABILIZING MARKETS
TODAY WILL WE BE IN A REASONABLE POSITION TO EXPECT GROWTH
TOMORROW.
WE WOULD BE HAPPY TO ASSIST YOU, MR. CHAIRMAN, AND OTHER
MEMBERS OF THE TASK FORCE, IN IMPLEMENTING INITIATIVES
11
ALONG THE LINES DISCUSSED TODAY. PLEASE LET US KNOW HOW WE
CAN HELP.
THANK YOU.
12
SOLE WRITER
MORTGAGE BANKERS PANEL REMARKS / JAMES J. DIDION
DALLAS, TX / OCTOBER 22, 1991
GOOD MORNING. I'M JIM DIDION, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF CB
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE GROUP. I'M HERE TODAY ON BEHALF
OF NATIONAL REALTY COMMITTEE, WHICH SERVES AS REAL
ESTATE'S ROUNDTABLE IN WASHINGTON, AND WHICH I SERVE AS
SENIOR VICE CHAIRMAN.
NRC FOCUSES FULL-TIME ON REAL ESTATE'S NATIONAL POLICY
AGENDA. OUR MEMBERS ARE AMERICA'S LEADING COMMERCIAL
OWNERS, ADVISORS, BUILDERS, INVESTORS, LENDERS AND
MANAGERS.
1
NOT SURPRISINGLY, TODAY'S NUMBER ONE PRIORITY ON THE
NATIONAL POLICY FRONT IS THE CREDIT CRISIS. FOR OVER A
YEAR, AS THIS CRISIS EMERGED, NRC COMMUNICATED
FREQUENTLY WITH KEY FEDERAL OFFICIALS -- FROM
COMPTROLLER CLARKE TO FEDERAL RESERVE CHAIRMAN
GREENSPAN TO TREASURY SECRETARY BRADY -- IDENTIFYING
REAL ESTATE'S CONCERNS AND CONVEYING RECOMMENDATIONS
TO CONSTRUCTIVELY ADDRESS THEM.
RECENT MONTHS HAVE BROUGHT A SHIFT IN WASHINGTON'S
THINKING ON SOME KEY POINTS; I'LL DETAIL POLICYMAKERS'
RESPONSES IN A MOMENT. FIRST, A STATUS REPORT ON REAL
ESTATE MARKET LIQUIDITY.
2
BY ALL MEASURES, CREDIT AND CAPITAL FOR COMMERCIAL REAL
ESTATE REMAINS HARD TO COME BY (AND IN SOME CORNERS IS
VIRTUALLY NON-EXISTENT) AS WE ENTER THE FOURTH QUARTER.
THE MOST RECENT FEDERAL RESERVE SURVEY OF SENIOR
LENDING OFFICERS SHOWS BANKS CONTINUING TO TIGHTEN THEIR
PURSE STRINGS.
THIS HAS HAPPENED AS TOTAL CREDIT GROWTH RATES HAVE
ACTUALLY "GONE NEGATIVE," MEANING THAT CREDIT FOR
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE HASN'T JUST BECOME HARDER TO GET
BUT HAS ACTUALLY BEEN REMOVED FROM THE SYSTEM.
3
I'M NOT COMPLAINING ABOUT A DEARTH OF CREDIT FOR
SPECULATIVE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT. RIGHTFULLY, THAT'S
AS DEAD AS COMMUNISM IN THE EASTERN BLOC. NO, WHAT I'M
COMPLAINING ABOUT IS A SEVERE LIQUIDITY CRISIS FOR EXISTING
ASSETS AND A RELUCTANCE OF LENDERS EVEN TO REFINANCE
STANDING LOANS ON PERFORMING PROPERTIES. THAT'S TODAY'S
MAIN PROBLEM.
THE CONSEQUENCES ARE CLEAR AS NECESSARY TRANSACTIONS
CANNOT BE COMPLETED, VALUES DECLINE UNCHECKED, STRESS
MOUNTS ON THE BANKING SYSTEM, UNEMPLOYMENT INCREASES,
STATE AND LOCAL PROPERTY TAX BASES ERODE, AND THE COSTS
OF THE S&L BAILOUT INCREASE AS THE RTC HAS A TOUGHER
TIME DISPOSING OF ITS ASSETS.
4
WITH THESE CONCERNS IN MIND, NRC EARLIER THIS YEAR
FASHIONED A PLAN TO HELP FOSTER AN ORDERLY TRANSITION
PERIOD FOR THE ECONOMY, THE BANKING SYSTEM AND REAL
ESTATE. WE ENVISION A NEW EQUILIBRIUM -- CHARACTERIZED BY
DISCIPLINED LENDING, SENSIBLE BORROWING, RATIONAL TAX
POLICY, LOWER INTEREST RATES, AND A HEALTHY AND SOUND
MARKETPLACE. NRC's PLAN STRESSED THE NEED FOR
COORDINATED, SYSTEMIC AND IMMEDIATE POLICY ACTION.
5
NOTING THAT SOME $200 BILLION IN SHORT-TERM REAL ESTATE
LOANS ARE COMING DUE SOON, NRC SAID THAT ANY
COORDINATED INITIATIVE MUST HAVE AS ITS GOAL THE RENEWAL
OF SOUND LOANS TO PROVIDE LIQUIDITY AND BREATHING ROOM
FOR BORROWERS AND LENDERS ALIKE. IT ALSO SHOULD:
PROVIDE A REASONABLE TIME FRAME FOR BANKS TO REDUCE
REAL ESTATE LOAN EXPOSURE;
ENCOURAGE PROPERTY APPRAISALS BASED ON LONG-TERM
EARNINGS CAPACITY RATHER THAN LIQUIDATION VALUES;
REVISE THE CLASSIFICATION STANDARDS FOR PERFORMING REAL
ESTATE LOANS; AND
PHASE-IN THE NEW BANK CAPITAL STANDARDS.
6
RECOGNIZING THAT THE INDUSTRY'S STABILITY HAS SUFFERED
DURING THE PAST DECADE FROM TAX RULES THAT IN 1981
OVERSTIMULATED INVESTMENT IN REAL ESTATE AND IN 1986
OVERREACTED TO THOSE EARLIER RULES -- ARTIFICIALLY
ERODING REAL ESTATE VALUES -- NRC HAS URGED THAT
RATIONAL TAX POLICIES BE APPLIED TO REAL ESTATE. NAMELY,
NRC HAS CALLED FOR:
MODIFICATIONS TO THE PASSIVE LOSS TAX RULES, WHICH SINCE
1986 HAVE MISSTATED THE TRUE ECONOMICS OF OWNING AND
OPERATING REAL ESTATE;
A REDUCTION IN THE CAPITAL GAINS TAX RATE TO REDUCE U.S.
CAPITAL COSTS AND PROMOTE INVESTMENT; AND
TAX RULES THAT DO NOT UNNECESSARILY PENALIZE PRUDENT
REAL ESTATE LOAN RESTRUCTURINGS OR DEBT WORKOUTS.
7
AT THE SAME TIME, NRC HAS URGED POLICYMAKERS TO RESOLVE
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY INEQUITIES THAT UNNECESSARILY
DRIVE UP THE COST OF CAPITAL AND UNDULY BURDEN REAL
ESTATE OWNERS AND FINANCIERS. WE' VE FOCUSED OUR EFFORTS
ON ENVIRONMENTAL LIABILITY, WETLANDS, ENDANGERED
SPECIES AND INDOOR AIR QUALITY.
THANKFULLY, OUR CALLS FOR ACTION HAVE NOT FALLEN ON
DEAF EARS. THIS SUMMER BROUGHT POSITIVE POLICY ACTIONS
FROM BANK REGULATORS IN WASHINGTON AS THE OCC, THE
FEDERAL RESERVE, THE FDIC AND THE OFFICE OF THRIFT
SUPERVISION ALL ISSUED HELPFUL GUIDANCE FOR LENDERS AND
EXAMINERS. THE REGULATORS' DIRECTIVES ADDRESSED THE
NEED FOR PRUDENT LOAN ROLLOVERS, THE NEED FOR BANKS TO
REDUCE THEIR REAL ESTATE EXPOSURE OVER TIME, AND THE NEED
FOR PROPERTY APPRAISALS BASED ON LONG-TERM EARNINGS
CAPACITY RATHER THAN LIQUIDATION VALUES.
8
MORE RECENTLY, THE WHITE HOUSE HAS GROWN ALERT TO THE
NATIONAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE CREDIT CRISIS. PARTICULARLY
IN LIGHT OF THE '92 ELECTION, THEY'RE WORRIED THAT ANY
NATIONAL ECONOMIC RECOVERY WILL BE IMPEDED.
WHILE REGULATORS' NEW POLICIES REPRESENT A POSITIVE SHIFT
IN WASHINGTON'S THINKING, THEIR ULTIMATE EFFECTIVENESS
CAN ONLY BE MEASURED BY A CHANGED DIRECTION IN THE
MARKETPLACE. HAS THAT HAPPENED YET? NO. So WE MUST
CONTINUE TO PRESS POLICYMAKERS TO EFFECTIVELY REINFORCE
THIS GUIDANCE IN THE FIELD AND ENCOURAGE LENDERS TO HEED
THESE POLICIES.
9
ON THE TAX FRONT, LEGISLATION THAT WOULD RESTORE
FAIRNESS TO THE PASSIVE LOSS RULES HAS GARNERED 300
COSPONSORS IN THE HOUSE AND 20 IN THE SENATE; PERHAPS
BECAUSE OF THE CREDIT CRISIS AND ITS CONSEQUENCES MORE
LAWMAKERS ARE SEEING THE CORRELATION BETWEEN TODAY'S
UNFAIR RULES AND THE CURRENT PROPERTY VALUES FREEFALL.
BUT PASSIVE LOSS LEGISLATION AS WELL AS A REDUCED CAPITAL
GAINS RATE ARE BOTH DEPENDENT ON A SIZABLE TAX BILL -- THE
LIKELIHOOD OF WHICH IS STILL VERY MUCH UP IN THE AIR.
10
RESULTS HAVE BEEN MORE DEFINITIVE ON THE ENVIRONMENTAL
FRONT. A NEW EPA RULE SHOULD GO FAR IN EASING LENDERS'
CONCERNS OVER THE LOOMING THREAT OF EXCESSIVE
HAZARDOUS WASTE LIABILITY, THUS HELPING TAME THE CREDIT
CRISIS. AND ON WETLANDS, A NEW BUSH ADMINISTRATION
POLICY DELIVERED A MAJOR VICTORY FOR REAL ESTATE,
STRIKING A NEEDED BALANCE BETWEEN THE CONCERNS OF
PRIVATE PROPERTY OWNERS AND THE NECESSITY OF PROTECTING
TRULY SIGNIFICANT WETLAND AREAS.
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE ON THE CREDIT CRISIS? IN
PRESSING FOR MORE COORDINATED, SYSTEMIC ACTION, NRC
CONTINUES TO PURSUE THE REFORM OF CERTAIN UNSOUND TAX
POLICIES THAT IMPEDE PRUDENT PENSION CAPITAL INVESTMENT
IN REAL ESTATE. WE'RE ALSO URGING POLICYMAKERS TO
EXPLORE THE FEASIBILITY OF AN EXPANDED SECONDARY MARKET
FOR COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LOANS.
11
ALTHOUGH PENSION FUNDS ARE A LOGICAL SOURCE OF CAPITAL
FOR LONG-TERM REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT, ONLY A SMALL
AMOUNT OF PENSION ASSETS ARE INVESTED IN REAL ESTATE.
CURRENT TAX AND REGULATORY POLICIES PRESENT
UNNECESSARY OBSTACLES IN THIS AREA. WE'RE ENCOURAGING
POLICYMAKERS TO:
MODIFY REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST RULES PREVENTING
PENSION FUNDS FROM PLAYING A LARGER ROLE IN PROVIDING
CAPITAL THROUGH REITS;
REVISE TODAY'S UNNECESSARILY RIGID DEBT-FINANCED INCOME
TAX RULES APPLICABLE TO PENSION FUNDS; AND
RATIONALIZE THE RULES INVOLVING PARTNERSHIPS BETWEEN
PENSIONS AND TAXABLE INVESTORS.
12
SIMILARLY, ALTHOUGH A SMALL SECURITIZATION MARKET NOW
EXISTS FOR COMMERCIAL MORTGAGES, THERE ARE A NUMBER OF
STEPS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COULD TAKE TO GREATLY
ENHANCE THIS MARKET. THESE INCLUDE THE NEED TO:
MODIFY THE RULES ALLOCATING RISK-BASED CAPITAL
REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE POOLS AMONG
SENIOR AND SUBORDINATED INTEREST HOLDERS;
PERMIT FREELY TRADEABLE SUBORDINATED INTERESTS IN
INVESTMENT TRUSTS;
EXTEND BENEFITS ENJOYED BY RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE
SECURITIES UNDER THE LAW TO COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE
SECURITIES; AND
PROMOTE GREATER UNIFORMITY OF LOAN AND SECURITIES
DOCUMENTATION.
13
IN SEEKING REGULATORY BALANCE, RATIONAL TAX POLICY,
INCREASED PRUDENT PENSION INVESTMENT, AND AN ENHANCED
SECONDARY MARKET FOR COMMERCIAL LOANS, IT'S MY VIEW
THAT WE'RE THINKING RESPONSIBLY AND WITH AN EYE TOWARD
THE FUTURE.
WASHINGTON, WE ALL KNOW, WAS PART OF THE PROBLEM IN THE
FIRST PLACE. LIKEWISE, ASHINGTON IS, AND WE HOPE WILL
CONTINUE TO BE, PART OF THE SOLUTION.
WITH CONTINUED HIGH INVOLVEMENT FROM US ALL, I AM
CONFIDENT ADDITIONAL SOUND PUBLIC POLICIES WILL BE
FORTHCOMING.
THANK YOU.
14
DEPAR OF VETERA RANS AFFAIRS
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR PUBLIC AFFAIRS
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
WASHINGTON DC 20420
February 19, 1992
Tony -
Couldn't help but hear the rumblings about White House
speechwriting support I have a fellow on my staff who is
really excellent and very interested in the opportunity to
work with you.
His name is Bob Putnam and he is Secretary Derwinski's
speechwriter.
If you'd like to pursue or discuss this, I'd be happy
to arrange it. Thanks!
Sincerely,
1986
Deni
Dennis R. Boxx
Enclosure
OF
OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS
DEPARTMENT UNITED VETERANS AMERICA AFFAIRS
STATES
OF
Dennis R. Boxx
DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
(202) 233-5187
810 VERMONT AVENUE. NW
FTS: 373-5187
WASHINGTON, DC 20420
SUGGESTED REMARKS
FOR PEARL HARBOR DAY, 1991
Commemorating 50 years since "A date which will live in infamy"
AT CEREMONIES AROUND THE NATION
DECEMBER 7, 1991
1
TODAY, IN CEREMONIES HELD AROUND OUR NATION AND
THE WORLD
PEOPLE WILL RECALL AN EVENT THAT IS NOT ONLY OF
GREAT IMPORTANCE IN AMERICAN HISTORY
BUT WHICH MAY FAIRLY BE CALLED A PIVOTAL MOMENT
FOR MODERN CIVILIZATION.
WORLD WAR TWO WAS THE GREATEST CATACLYSM
CIVILIZATION HAS EVER KNOWN. IT WAS FOUGHT, WITH
VARYING INTENSITY, ON EVERY CONTINENT OF THE GLOBE.
IT TOUCHED -- AND IN MANY CASES SCARRED -- THE
LIVES OF ALL THOSE WHO LIVED IN THAT TIME. AND IT HAS
CONTINUED TO CAST A SHADOW OVER ALL OF US WHO HAVE
LIVED IN THE YEARS THAT FOLLOWED.
IT IS NOW ACKNOWLEDGED THAT AMERICA'S ENTRY INTO
THE WAR CHANGED THE DIRECTION AND THE OUTCOME OF
THE CONFLICT
ASSURING VICTORY FOR THE ALLIES AND SETTING UP
THE FRAMEWORK FOR THE PEACE THAT FOLLOWED.
THE EVENT RESPONSIBLE FOR AMERICA'S INVOLVEMENT
TOOK PLACE FIFTY YEARS AGO TODAY. FEW PERSONS WHO
WERE ALIVE AT THAT TIME WILL EVER FORGET WHERE THEY
WERE, OR WHAT THEY WERE DOING WHEN THEY HEARD THE
NEWS.
2
AT SEVEN-FIFTY-FIVE A.M. ON A SUNDAY MORNING, DAWN
WAS BREAKING OVER A GROUP OF BEAUTIFUL PACIFIC
ISLANDS. SUDDENLY, THE QUIET WAS SHATTERED BY THE
ENGINES OF MANY AIRPLANES, FLYING IN WAVES OVER PEARL
HARBOR, HAWAII.
IT WAS DECEMBER 7, 1941 -- AND A JAPANESE FLEET OF
30 SURFACE SHIPS AND 35 SUBMARINES HAD LAUNCHED A
MASSIVE, SURPRISE ATTACK ON THE U.S. FLEET AND
INSTALLATIONS ON THE SURROUNDING ISLANDS.
AMERICA'S PEACETIME NAVY AND CIVILIAN RESIDENTS
ALIKE CAME AWAKE TO THE THUNDER OF BOMBS AND THE
ROAR OF MACHINE GUNS, AS NEARLY 200 PLANES IN THE
FIRST ATTACK WAVE CAME IN.
THE PLANES STRUCK HARD AT THE NAVY'S "BATTLESHIP
ROW" -- AND AT HICKAM, WHEELER AND BELLOWS FIELDS.
IT WAS APPARENT THAT THE AIRPLANES WERE JAPANESE,
BUT THERE WERE MANY OTHER QUESTIONS -- WHERE HAD THE
ATTACKERS COME FROM?
WOULD THEY BE BACK? WOULD A FULL-SCALE LANDING
FOLLOW-UP THE AIR ATTACK?
ANSWERS WERE FEW, BUT ONE THING WAS CERTAIN: A
PEACE-LOVING COUNTRY WAS SUDDENLY AT WAR THIS DAY.
IT WAS TO BE THE FIRST OF ONE THOUSAND, THREE HUNDRED
AND FIFTY-ONE DAYS OF WAR.
3
BEFORE EVEN THAT GRIM TRUTH WAS FULLY
UNDERSTOOD BY THE SHOCKED SURVIVORS OF THE FIRST
ATTACK, A SECOND WAVE OF ENEMY PLANES -- AGAIN NEARLY
TWO HUNDRED OF THEM -- ROARED IN TO PRESS THE ATTACK.
THIS TIME THE DEFENDERS WERE ALERT, AND THEY
FOUGHT BACK WITH EVERYTHING THEY HAD. BUT IT WAS AN
UNEVEN FIGHT.
OUR CAPABILITY TO COUNTER-ATTACK BY AIR WAS GONE.
OVER 300 U.S. PLANES WERE DESTROYED OR DAMAGED,
ALMOST ALL OF THEM WHILE STILL ON THE GROUND.
OUR LARGE SURFACE SHIPS -- PRIDE OF THE U.S. NAVY -
WERE DECIMATED. FOUR BATTLESHIPS WERE SUNK, THREE
MORE HEAVILY DAMAGED, ALONG WITH SEVERAL CRUISERS
AND DESTROYERS.
WORST OF ALL, THE LOSS OF LIFE WAS APPALLING. IT
TOOK DAYS TO LEARN THE GRIM TOTALS, AND THE SHOCK
WAVES WERE FELT THROUGHOUT THE NATION.
THE DEAD INCLUDED TWO THOUSAND AND EIGHT
SAILORS, TWO HUNDRED-EIGHTEEN SOLDIERS, ONE HUNDRED
-NINE MARINES, AND SIXTY-EIGHT CIVILIANS. THE WOUNDED
TOTALLED OVER A THOUSAND MORE AMERICANS.
STILL, IN THE FACE OF THE ONE-SIDED BATTLE, THERE
WERE COUNTLESS EXAMPLES OF HEROISM AMONG THE
DEFENDERS.
4
FOR EXAMPLE, THE CAPTAIN OF THE U.S.S. ARIZONA --
FRANKLIN VAN VALKENBURGH -- REFUSED TO LEAVE THE
BRIDGE OF HIS DOOMED SHIP. ALTHOUGH IT WAS CLEAR THAT
THE SHIP WAS IN DANGER OF BLOWING UP, HE REMAINED TO
DIRECT THE FIGHT UNTIL KILLED BY A DIRECT BOMB HIT.
WHEN IT WAS SEEN THAT THE U.S.S. OKLAHOMA WAS
GOING TO CAPSIZE, SEAMAN JAMES WARD REMAINED IN A
TURRET HOLDING A FLASHLIGHT so THAT THE REST OF HIS
CREWMATES COULD FIND THEIR WAY OUT THEREBY
SACRIFICING HIS OWN LIFE.
THESE MEN AND MORE THAN A DOZEN OTHERS WERE
AWARDED THE CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR FOR THEIR
COURAGE. THERE WERE HUNDREDS OF OTHER EXAMPLES OF
INDIVIDUAL HEROISM.
ONE EXAMPLE OF COLLECTIVE AMERICAN RESOLVE TOOK
PLACE AT THE HEIGHT OF THE ATTACK, WHEN THE AIR WAS
FILLED WITH SMOKE FROM BURNING SHIPS, AND THE
SURFACE OF THE HARBOR ITSELF WAS ON FIRE WITH BURNING
FUEL OIL.
SUDDENLY, THE U.S.S. NEVADA BURST THROUGH THE
THICK SMOKE AND FLAMES, GUNS BLAZING AND ENGINES
FULL AHEAD, BREAKING FOR THE CHANNEL AND THE OPEN
SEA.
THE OLD BATTLESHIP DIDN'T MAKE IT. THE NEVADA RAN
AGROUND NEAR THE MOUTH OF THE HARBOR. BUT AS SHE
LAY THERE, HER SUPERSTRUCTURE BURNING AND SMOKE
POURING FROM DOZENS OF HOLES, HER SURVIVORS
CONTINUED TO FIRE THE FEW REMAINING, OPERABLE GUNS.
5
THE NEVADA 'S TORN FLAG CONTINUED TO WAVE --
SOMETHING WHICH COULD BE SEEN AS A GESTURE OF
DEFIANCE THAT WOULD COME TO SYMBOLIZE THE WAY ALL OF
AMERICA WOULD RESPOND.
IT WAS EARLY AFTERNOON IN WASHINGTON WHEN THE
ATTACK BEGAN. AFTER RECEIVING THE NEWS BY TELEPHONE,
PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT HAD HIS SECRETARY TAKE DETAILS
ABOUT THE ATTACK BY SHORTHAND, OVER THE PHONE.
AS THE SECRETARY TRANSCRIBED HER NOTES ON A
TYPEWRITER, THE PRESIDENT AND HIS STAFF WATCHED OVER
HER SHOULDER -- SHAKING THEIR HEADS IN DISBELIEF AS
THE FULL DIMENSIONS OF THE TERRIBLE DISASTER BECAME
CLEAR.
PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT PERSONALLY DICTATED THE WAR
MESSAGE HE WOULD DELIVER TO CONGRESS THE NEXT DAY.
THE BEGINNING LINES OF THAT MESSAGE HAVE BECOME
FAMOUS, REFLECTING THE ANGER AND THE RESOLVE OF A
PROUD NATION THAT HAS BEEN ATTACKED:
"YESTERDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1941 -- A DATE THAT WILL LIVE
IN INFAMY -- THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WAS SUDDENLY
AND DELIBERATELY ATTACKED BY NAVAL AND AIR FORCES OF
THE EMPIRE OF JAPAN."
6
PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT'S ENTIRE MESSAGE WAS
POWERFUL - BUT THESE SHORT EXCERPTS CAPTURED THE
DRAMA OF THAT TIME AND THE DETERMINATION OF OUR
PEOPLE. THE PRESIDENT SAID:
"AS COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMY AND NAVY, I
HAVE DIRECTED THAT ALL MEASURES BE TAKEN FOR OUR
DEFENSE ...
"NO MATTER HOW LONG IT MAY TAKE US TO OVERCOME
THIS PREMEDITATED INVASION, THE AMERICAN PEOPLE -- IN
THEIR RIGHTEOUS MIGHT -- WILL WIN THROUGH TO ABSOLUTE
VICTORY.
"WITH CONFIDENCE IN OUR ARMED FORCES -- WITH THE
UNBOUNDING DETERMINATION OF OUR PEOPLE -- WE WILL
GAIN THE INEVITABLE TRIUMPH -- so HELP US GOD."
HISTORY REFLECTS THAT THE CONGRESS RESPONDED TO
THE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE WITH OVERWHELMING SUPPORT
AS DID THE ENTIRE NATION.
TO SOME PEOPLE WHO WERE NOT ALIVE IN THOSE DAYS,
THE POWER AND THE COMPLETENESS OF THAT RESPONSE
SEEM HARD TO COMPREHEND.
BUT FOR MANY WHO WERE PART OF THAT UNIQUE TIME -
AND ESPECIALLY FOR PERSONS WHO WERE PRESENT AT
PEARL HARBOR -- THE RESPONSE WAS EXACTLY WHAT WAS
EXPECTED OF AMERICANS.
7
TOGETHER, THEY LAUNCHED THE GREATEST COLLECTIVE
HUMAN ENDEAVOR -- MILITARY, INDUSTRIAL AND SOCIAL --
EVER SEEN, TO ACCOMPLISH THEIR GOAL OF PROTECTING
OUR AMERICAN WAY OF LIFE.
OUR ATTACKERS HAD NOT ENVISIONED THAT AMERICAN
DETERMINATION, AND THEY HAD NOT COUNTED ON OUR
RESILIENCE. THE MAJORITY OF THE U.S. AIRCRAFT DAMAGED
AT PEARL HARBOR WERE SALVAGED. SIX BATTLESHIPS --
INCLUDING SOME WHICH HAD APPEARED TOTALLY WRECKED -
- WERE FULLY RESTORED TO ACTION.
AND THROUGHOUT OUR NATION, IMAGES BEGAN TO
APPEAR REFLECTING THE POWERFUL FEELINGS OF THAT ERA:
THERE WERE LONG LINES OF YOUNG MEN WAITING TO
ENLIST -- AND, FOR THE FIRST TIME, WOMEN ENTERING THE
SERVICE IN SIGNIFICANT NUMBERS.
MANY MORE WOMEN BEGAN WORKING IN FACTORIES,
DRIVING TRUCKS, AND TAKING OVER OTHER JOBS THAT HAD
TRADITIONALLY BEEN FILLED BY MEN.
BEFORE LONG, RATIONING BEGAN -- AND AMERICANS
GAVE UP OR LIMITED USE OF THINGS THAT WERE NEEDED BY
OUR TROOPS. NEW, PRIVATE AUTOMOBILES BECAME A THING
OF THE PAST, AS JEEPS, TANKS AND AIRPLANES TOOK THEIR
PLACE ON THE ASSEMBLY LINES.
BY THE TIME THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA REACHED
ITS FULL INDUSTRIAL AND MILITARY POTENTIAL, IT WAS CLEAR
THAT THE EFFORT HAD MADE OUR NATION THE MOST
POWERFUL FORCE ON EARTH.
8
ON THIS 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THAT MOMENTOUS
AWAKENING OF AMERICAN SPIRIT AND DETERMINATION IT'S
FITTING THAT WE SALUTE ALL THOSE WHO WERE INVOLVED IN
THAT UNDERTAKING.
THIS SALUTE INCLUDES OUR SPECIAL RESPECTS TO
THOSE WHO LOST THEIR LIVES ON THAT DECEMBER MORNING
FIFTY YEARS AGO, AND ALL WHO SUFFERED PHYSICAL AND
EMOTIONAL WOUNDS.
WE RECOGNIZE, OF COURSE, THAT OUR DEBT TO THOSE
WHO WERE AT PEARL HARBOR, AND WHO SERVED IN ALL THE
BATTLES AND CONFLICTS SINCE THEN, WILL NOT BE PAID BY
HOLDING RECOGNITION CEREMONIES.
IT INVOLVES A CONTINUING PROCESS -- A STEADY
DEDICATION TO HELPING ALL THOSE WHO RETURN FROM
SERVICE
HELPING THEM TO BECOME VALUABLE, VITAL MEMBERS
OF OUR SOCIETY, WORKING TO ATTACK NOT ONLY OUR
ENEMIES, BUT ALL OF AMERICA'S ILLS.
THIS IS A DEBT AMERICA TAKES SERIOUSLY.
WE HAVE COMPENSATED OUR VETERANS THROUGH A
PROGRAM OF BENEFITS AND SERVICES, INCLUDING
DISABILITY PAYMENTS, EDUCATIONAL AID, MEDICAL CARE,
INSURANCE AND HOME LOAN ASSISTANCE.
AND OUR NATIONAL CEMETERIES PROVIDE A FINAL
RESTING PLACE WITH HONOR AND DIGNITY.
9
AMERICANS HAVE SHOWN THAT THEY CONSIDER THIS
PROGRAM OF VETERANS BENEFITS JUST PAYMENT FOR A
TRADITION OF SERVICE AND SACRIFICE THAT EXTENDS BACK
TO THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
THIS IS THE TRUE COURSE TO HONOR ALL WHO SERVED
TO THANK THEM FOR THE FREEDOMS WE HAVE; THE
PROSPERITY THAT MAKES OUR LIVES COMFORTABLE; THE
HUMAN DIGNITY THAT MAKES OUR LIVES WORTH LIVING.
NOW, TODAY -- FIFTY YEARS AFTER THE "DATE THAT WILL
LIVE IN INFAMY" -- IT'S CLEAR THAT THE UNITED STATES IS
SOMETHING SPECIAL.
AS MUCH AS THIS FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF PEARL
HARBOR REMINDS US OF AMERICA'S RESILIENCE AND
DETERMINATION IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY WE CAN SEE IN
IT TODAY, CLEAR PROOF OF OUR NATION'S SENSE OF
FAIRNESS AND DECENCY.
WE HAVE NOT ONLY SHOWN THE WORLD THAT WE CAN
USE OUR MILITARY AND INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH TO FIGHT
AGAINST AGGRESSION, INJUSTICE AND TYRANNY
WE HAVE PROVEN WE WILL USE OUR MATERIAL AND
FINANCIAL STRENGTH TO BIND THE WOUNDS OF THE
VANQUISHED.
WE HAVE DEMONSTRATED THAT THE AMERICAN WAY OF
LIFE MEANS FREEDOM AND JUSTICE -- NOT JUST FOR US, AND
NOT JUST FOR THE PRIVILEGED BUT FOR ALL.
10
THAT IS THE FULL SIGNIFICANCE OF PEARL HARBOR DAY --
THE COMPLETE STORY TOLD IN THE IMAGE OF A TORN
BATTLEFLAG ON THE U.S.S. NEVADA, DEFIANTLY FLYING
THROUGH THE SMOKE OF A DECEMBER MORNING.
TODAY -- FIFTY YEARS LATER -- WE SALUTE THAT FLAG,
AND WHAT IT STANDS FOR.
11
REMARKS
EDWARD J. DERWINSKI
SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
FOR VETERANS DAY, 1991
"Honoring All Who Served"
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
NOVEMBER 11, 1991
*
1
IT'S A GREAT DAY FOR PATRIOTISM IN AMERICA.
IN THE PAST YEAR, TWO COMPELLING EVENTS COMBINED
TO MAKE THE AMERICAN FLAG SEEM LIKE IT'S FLYING A BIT
HIGHER ...
... AND TO MAKE PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD LOOK AT IT
WITH A NEW SENSE OF RESPECT.
OUR ARMED FORCES SPEARHEADED AN UNPRECEDENTED
VICTORY BY THE UNITED NATIONS OVER FORCES OF
AGGRESSION IN THE PERSIAN GULF. AND EVENTS IN
EASTERN EUROPE MOVED TO THE POINT WHERE THERE CAN
BE NO DOUBT THAT DEMOCRACY HAS WON THE COLD WAR
WITH COMMUNISM.
so PATRIOTISM IS ALIVE AND WELL IN AMERICA. AND
PATRIOTISM HERE IS UNIQUE.
IN OTHER COUNTRIES, IT MIGHT MEAN RESPECT FOR A
FORM OF GOVERNMENT, OR PRIDE IN NATIONAL HISTORY OR IN
ETHNIC CULTURE.
IN AMERICA, PATRIOTISM IS AN ETERNAL LOVE AFFAIR
WITH A NOBLE IDEAL -- A BELIEF WHICH OFFERS HOPE, NOT
ONLY TO A PRIVILEGED CLASS, BUT TO ALL.
THIS IDEAL IS THAT FREE PEOPLE CAN COLLECTIVELY
GOVERN THEMSELVES -- IN ORDER AND IN DIGNITY.
2
THE ELEMENTS OF THE IDEAL -- SELF-DETERMINATION,
FREEDOM AND JUSTICE -- ARE NOT ABSTRACT CONCEPTS;
THEY'RE IN USE IN WORKPLACES, CHURCHES, COURTROOMS
AND HOMES AROUND OUR NATION.
ON ONE, SPECIAL DAY DURING THE YEAR, WE STOP TO
CONSIDER HOW THIS IDEAL CAME TO BE OUR UNIQUE
AMERICAN HERITAGE, AND HOW IT HAS BEEN SAFEGUARDED
THROUGHOUT OUR HISTORY.
TODAY-- NOVEMBER 11TH -- IS THAT DAY -- OUR TIME TO
RECOGNIZE THAT FREEDOM IS NOT FREE; IT HAS BEEN WON
FOR US THROUGH THE SERVICE AND THE SACRIFICE OF VERY
SPECIAL AMERICAN MEN AND WOMEN.
ON THIS DAY WE ALSO ACKNOWLEDGE THE GENERATIONS
OF AMERICANS WHO HAVE SERVED TO PROTECT OUR SYSTEM
OF JUSTICE AND OUR WAY OF LIFE.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THIS PARTICULAR DATE GOES BACK
TO A MORNING IN 1918, WHEN AN EERIE SILENCE CREPT
ACROSS EUROPEAN BATTLEFIELDS.
IT WAS THE ELEVENTH HOUR, OF THE ELEVENTH DAY OF
THE ELEVENTH MONTH -- AND THE HOSTILITIES OF WORLD
WAR ONE HAD ENDED.
AFTER AMERICA'S DOUGHBOYS FINALLY CAME HOME
FROM THAT WAR "TO MAKE THE THE WORLD SAFE FOR
DEMOCRACY," , NOVEMBER ELEVENTH WAS OFFICIALLY
NAMED ARMISTICE DAY.
3
UNFORTUNATELY, IT WAS NOT "THE WAR TO END ALL
WARS," AS SOME HAD HOPED. DEMOCRACY DID NOT REMAIN
SAFE; THE JOB OF PROTECTING FREEDOM WAS NOT FINISHED.
AT SEVEN-FIFTY ON A SUNDAY MORNING, THE QUIET WAS
SHATTERED BY AN UNPROVOKED AIR ATTACK ON THE U.S.
PACIFIC FLEET IN PEARL HARBOR.
IT WAS DECEMBER 7, 1941 -- THE FIRST OF ONE
THOUSAND, THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-ONE DAYS OF WAR.
NEXT MONTH, IN CEREMONIES HELD AROUND THE
COUNTRY, WE WILL RECALL THIS MOMENTOUS EVENT IN OUR
HISTORY -- THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF AMERICA'S ENTRY
INTO THE SECOND WORLD WAR.
AMERICA WAS CAUGHT BY SURPRISE AND THE EFFECTS
WERE DEVASTATING. BUT OUR ATTACKERS CAME TO WISH
THEY HAD NOT DISTURBED THE "SLEEPING GIANT."
AMERICANS CAME TOGETHER AS NEVER BEFORE, UNITING IN A
POWERFUL DETERMINATION TO OVERCOME OUR
ADVERSARIES.
IN THE YEARS TO COME, WE WILL BE COMMEMORATING
SEVERAL ANNIVERSARIES OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS DURING
THE SECOND WORLD WAR
...
TO HONOR THE VALIANT SERVICE OF ALL THE
VETERANS WHO SERVED IN THAT TREMENDOUS CONFLICT.
WORLD WAR TWO WAS MARKED BY THE SERVICE OF
SIGNIFICANT NUMBERS OF WOMEN IN OUR ARMED FORCES.
IT'S APPROPRIATE TO RECOGNIZE ALL WOMEN VETERANS THIS
WEEK -- NATIONAL WOMEN VETERANS RECOGNITION WEEK.
4
THE PERSIAN GULF WAR BROUGHT HOME TO US ALL THE
IMPORTANT ROLE WOMEN PLAY IN OUR NATIONAL SECURITY.
WE GIVE A SPECIAL SALUTE THIS VETERANS DAY TO THE
35,000 WOMEN WHO SERVED IN THE PERSIAN GULF THEATER.
A SCANT FIVE YEARS AFTER WORLD WAR TWO ENDED,
MILLIONS MORE AMERICAN MEN AND WOMEN ANSWERED THE
CALL TO SERVE IN KOREA.
AND IN 1954, THE CONGRESS REDESIGNATED NOVEMBER
ELEVENTH AS VETERANS DAY, TO HONOR AMERICAN
VETERANS WHO FOUGHT IN THESE CONFLICTS, TOO.
THE "NEW" VETERANS DAY ALSO WAS DESIGNED TO
ENCOMPASS THOSE WHO SERVED IN PREVIOUS YEARS,
INCLUDING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
THE CIVIL WAR -- WHICH DID so MUCH TO SHAPE
AMERICA'S DEFINITIONS OF FREEDOM
AND THE SPANISH AMERICAN WAR -- WHICH MARKED
OUR NATION'S EMERGENCE AS A WORLD POWER.
BUT, IN 1954, WHEN THE FIRST VETERANS DAY WAS HELD,
THERE WAS NO WAY OF KNOWING THAT AMERICA'S LONGEST
WAR WAS YET TO COME.
DURING TEN LONG YEARS OF BITTER CONFLICT IN THE
JUNGLES, RICE PADDIES AND HIGHLANDS OF VIETNAM,
MILLIONS MORE YOUNG AMERICANS SERVED AND SWEATED
AND SACRIFICED.
THOUSANDS DIED; ALL EARNED OUR RESPECT AND OUR
THANKS FOR WHAT THEY DID.
5
SINCE THEN, MEN AND WOMEN HAVE CONTINUED TO PUT
THEMSELVES IN HARM'S WAY TO PROTECT OUR FREEDOM AND
OUR WAY OF LIFE.
MOST RECENTLY, OF COURSE, THAT SELFLESS SERVICE
CAME IN THE DESERTS OF THE MIDDLE EAST, IN THE AIR
ABOVE AND THE SEA AROUND THAT CONTESTED TERRITORY
AS THOUSANDS OF AMERICAN SOLDIERS, SAILORS,
AIRMEN AND MARINES WENT INTO ACTION TO RESTORE ORDER
AND TO PROTECT INTERNATIONAL SECURITY.
TELEVISION IMAGES OF "HIGH TECH" WEAPONS AND
EQUIPMENT -GAVE THE IMPRESSION THIS WAR WAS
SOMETHING LIKE A VIDEO GAME. OF COURSE, THE REALITIES
WERE DIFFERENT.
THE FIGHTING ITSELF WAS OVER RELATIVELY QUICKLY,
BUT THE PERFORMANCE OF OUR FORCES REFLECTED LONG
AND ARDUOUS TRAINING.
THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO TRIUMPHED IN OPERATION
"DESERT STORM" ENDURED HARSH TERRAIN AND CLIMATE
AND THEY FACED MODERN WEAPONS AT THE FRONT,
SCUD MISSILES THAT COULD STRIKE ANYWHERE AT ANYTIME,
AND THE CONSTANT THREAT OF CHEMICAL WEAPONS.
THROUGH IT ALL, THEY NEVER WAVERED. AND
THEIR FELLOW AMERICANS APPRECIATED IT -- HOURS
AFTER OUR FORCES WENT INTO ACTION, U.S. FLAGS
WERE FLYING IN FRONT OF HOMES ALL OVER THE
COUNTRY.
6
WITHIN DAYS, YELLOW RIBBONS APPEARED ON
DOORS, TREES AND CAR ANTENNAS.
THAT WAS A TIME TO FEEL GOOD IN AMERICA, TO ENJOY
AND JOIN IN THIS RECOGNITION.
BUT COMPLETE RECOGNITION INVOLVES MORE THAN
RIBBONS OR PARADES; IT INVOLVES A PROCESS
A PROCESS ENVISIONED BY ABRAHAM LINCOLN, WHEN
HE SPOKE OF THE DEBT WE OWED OUR VETERANS.
LINCOLN SPOKE OF CARING FOR THOSE WHO HAD "BORNE
THE BATTLE."
HE REFERRED NOT ONLY TO BINDING IMMEDIATE WOUNDS,
BUT TO A TRANQUIL, STEADY DEDICATION TO HELPING ALL
THOSE WHO RETURN FROM SERVICE
HELPING THEM TO BECOME VALUABLE, VITAL MEMBERS
OF OUR SOCIETY, WORKING TO ATTACK ALL AMERICA'S ILLS
AND TO ANSWER ALL HER PROBLEMS.
THIS IS A DEBT AMERICA TAKES SERIOUSLY.
WE HAVE COMPENSATED OUR VETERANS THROUGH A
PROGRAM OF BENEFITS AND SERVICES, INCLUDING
DISABILITY PAYMENTS, EDUCATIONAL AID, MEDICAL CARE,
INSURANCE AND HOME LOAN ASSISTANCE.
AND OUR NATIONAL CEMETERIES PROVIDE A FINAL
RESTING PLACE WITH HONOR AND DIGNITY.
7
AMERICANS HAVE SHOWN THAT THEY CONSIDER THIS
PROGRAM OF VETERANS BENEFITS JUST PAYMENT FOR A
TRADITION OF SERVICE AND SACRIFICE THAT EXTENDS BACK
TO THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
THIS IS THE TRUE COURSE TO HONOR ALL WHO SERVED ...
... TO THANK THEM FOR THE FREEDOMS WE HAVE; THE
PROSPERITY THAT MAKES OUR LIVES COMFORTABLE; THE
HUMAN DIGNITY THAT MAKES OUR LIVES WORTH LIVING.
THAT'S THE DEEPER SIGNIFICANCE OF VETERANS DAY; A
SINCERE "THANK YOU" ...
FROM AN AMERICA SECURE IN THE PEACE, JUSTICE
AND FREEDOM THAT HAS BEEN -- AND CONTINUES TO BE --
OUR NATIONAL DREAM.
*****
8
DRAFT REMARKS
HONORABLE RONALD REAGAN
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
VETERANS DAY CEREMONIES
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
NOVEMBER 11, 1988
*
(NOTE: These remarks were drafted at the request of the White
House, written by VA speechwriter Robert Putnam. The President's
actual remarks on the occasion differed from this draft, reflecting
reworking by White House speechwriters.)
TODAY, AS ON VETERANS DAYS PAST, WE PAUSE TO
HONOR THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED AND DEFENDED
AMERICA AND HER IDEALS.
BUT THIS YEAR'S VETERANS DAY OBSERVANCE IS A
SPECIAL ONE
FOR IT MARKS THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA FOR
AMERICA'S VETERANS.
EVERY YEAR ON THE TRADITIONAL "ELEVENTH DAY
OF THE ELEVENTH MONTH," YOU'LL SEE PEOPLE
UNFURLING THE FLAG, MAKING SPEECHES AND SINGING
THE PRAISES OF OUR VETERANS.
AND AT THE END OF THE DAY, THEY TAKE DOWN THE
FLAG, FILE THE SPEECHES AND PUT IT ALL AWAY UNTIL
NEXT YEAR.
THAT'S THE CEREMONIAL SIDE OF VETERANS DAY --
AND I'M ALL FOR THESE CEREMONIES, BECAUSE I THINK
RECOGNIZING OUR NATION'S VETERANS ON VETERANS
DAY IS A TRULY IMPORTANT NATIONAL GESTURE.
AFTER ALL, THIS COUNTRY WAS FOUNDED, AND ITS
IDEALS PRESERVED, BY YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN WHO
GAVE BACK TO THEIR COUNTRY SOME OF WHAT THIS
GREAT NATION HAS GIVEN TO THEM
so THAT ALL OF US -- AND GENERATIONS TO
COME -- CAN ENJOY THE LIBERTY AND BOUNTY OF
AMERICA.
BUT THIS YEAR'S VETERANS DAY IS SPECIAL,
BECAUSE WE'VE DONE SOMETHING MORE THAN "WAVE
THE FLAG" IN THEIR NAME.
A YEAR AGO -- ON THE EVE OF VETERANS DAY, 1987
- I MET WITH A GROUP OF VETERANS LEADERS FROM
ACROSS THE COUNTRY
AND TOLD THEM I ENDORSED THE CREATION OF A
CABINET LEVEL DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
2
I SAID AT THE TIME THAT THIS WAS A PERSONAL
DECISION I'D THOUGHT ABOUT FOR SOME TIME
AND THAT I'D CONCLUDED IT WAS ABOUT TIME TO
GIVE VETERANS THE RECOGNITION THEY RIGHTLY
DESERVE.
THE AMERICAN PEOPLE APPARENTLY AGREED WITH
ME. AS WE HAVE SEEN, THE PEOPLE, THROUGH THEIR
ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES, SPOKE OUT
CONVINCINGLY IN SUPPORT OF VETERANS
PASSING THE BILL TO CREATE A DEPARTMENT OF
VETERANS AFFAIRS BY OVERWHELMING MAJORITIES IN
BOTH HOUSES.
STARTING NEXT MARCH, THE MAN WHO SPEAKS FOR
ALL VETERANS WILL SIT AT THE PRESIDENT'S TABLE
WITH THE OTHER TOP MEMBERS OF OUR GOVERNMENT
AND HIS VOICE WILL BE HEARD. AND THAT'S
CRUCIAL IN TODAY'S AMERICA.
FOR WHATEVER REASON -- TOO MUCH TIME SINCE
THE LAST WAR, TOO MANY AMERICANS WHO HAVE
GROWN UP WITHOUT THE FEAR OF WAR, TOO MUCH
PROSPERITY -- WHATEVER THE REASON
A NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN AMERICA SEEM TO HAVE
LOST SIGHT OF WHAT VETERANS HAVE GIVEN TO THIS
COUNTRY.
IF YOU NEED ONE SINGLE REASON FOR VA
ENTERING THE CABINET, I THINK YOU'LL FIND IT RIGHT
THERE.
TO ENSURE, AS AMERICA GROWS AWAY FROM
THOUGHTS OF WAR AND, HOPEFULLY, INTO A FUTURE OF
PEACE AND PROSPERITY
TO ENSURE THAT THOSE AMERICANS WHO WERE
THERE WHEN THEY HAD TO BE ARE NOT FORGOTTEN
AND THAT THEIR VOICES WILL BE HEARD AT THE
HIGHEST LEVEL so THAT AMERICA WILL ALWAYS "CARE
FOR HIM WHO SHALL HAVE BORN THE BATTLE "
3
AND TO ENSURE THE QUALITY AND CARING THAT
EVERY VETERAN DESERVES.
IT IS AN IMPORTANT REMINDER OF THE PRICE THAT
HAS BEEN PAID FOR OUR FREEDOM
...
... TIME AND TIME AGAIN.
AND IT SHOULD ALSO SERVE AS A REMINDER THAT
BEING PREPARED FOR DEFENSE HAS AS MUCH TO DO
WITH HOW YOU TREAT THOSE WHO ALREADY HAVE
SERVED ...
AS HOW YOU TREAT THOSE YOU WOULD RECRUIT
FOR THE FUTURE
...
FOR IT WOULD BE UNTHINKABLE TO ASK ANY
AMERICAN TO PUT FORTH THEIR VERY LIFE'S BLOOD FOR
THEIR COUNTRY ...
WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO ASSURE THEM THAT
THEIR COUNTRY WILL BE READY TO DO THE SAME FOR
THEM.
THE ELEVATION OF THE VA TO A CABINET
DEPARTMENT IS THE KEYSTONE TO KEEPING THAT
COMMITMENT TO ALL GENERATIONS OF AMERICA'S
VETERANS.
AND BECAUSE THE VALUE OF IT LASTS NOT JUST
ONE DAY A YEAR
IT MAKES A LONGER LASTING STATEMENT ABOUT
KEEPING FAITH WITH THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED.
AND THAT FAITH IS IMPORTANT FOR THE FUTURE, AS
WELL AS BECAUSE OF THE PAST.
IF YOU LOOK AT THE HISTORY OF THE CONFLICTS
THAT HAVE THREATENED OUR PEACE AND SECURITY
OVER THE YEARS, YOU REALIZE A SOBERING FACT.
THE ULTIMATE TEST MAY NOT BE OF THE HIGH TECH
WEAPONS SYSTEMS WE HAVE -- THE "B-1'S", THE
AWACS, THE EXOCETS AND ALL THE REST OF THE
MODERN ARSENAL.
4
HISTORY TELLS THAT THE TIDE OF BATTLE HAS
TURNED -- AND IT PROBABLY ALWAYS WILL TURN -- ON
THE ABILITY AND THE WILLINGNESS OF A YOUNG
AMERICAN ...
TIRED -- HUNGRY -- PROBABLY SCARED AND
HOMESICK ...
TO GET UP FROM A FOXHOLE IN A STRANGE
PLACE, UNDER FIRE, TO GO FORWARD TO GET THE JOB
DONE.
OUR HISTORY TODAY IS WHAT IT IS BECAUSE THOSE
YOUNG AMERICANS KEPT FAITH WITH THEIR COUNTRY.
IT'S OBVIOUSLY UP TO US TO KEEP FAITH WITH
THEM ...
AND A BIG PART OF THAT TRUST COMES IN THE
FORM OF THE SIMPLE "THANKS" WE GIVE THEM WITH
OUR RECOGNITION OF THEIR SERVICE.
AND RECOGNITION OF SERVICE HAS NEVER BEEN
MORE CERTAIN THAN IT IS NOW ...
.... ON THIS MOST SPECIAL OF VETERANS DAYS.
THANK YOU GOD BLESS YOU GOD BLESS
AMERICA.
5
PREPARED REMARKS
THE HONORABLE THOMAS K. TURNAGE
ADMINISTRATOR OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
CELEBRATION OF THE CREATION
OF A DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
ST. JOHN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
WASHINGTON, D.C.
OCTOBER 25, 1988
*
1
CHAPLAIN CLEVELAND, DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF THE
CLERGY
...
MEMBERS OF THE VETERANS ADMINISTRATION FAMILY AND
HONORED GUESTS
...
IT IS VERY FITTING FOR ALL OF US TO TAKE A FEW MOMENTS
TO REFLECT ON THE IMPORTANCE AND THE FULL MEANING OF
PUBLIC LAW 100-527 ...
THE LEGISLATION PRESIDENT REAGAN SIGNED LAST WEEK,
CREATING THE 14TH CABINET DEPARTMENT OF THE UNITED STATES
... THE "DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS."
WHAT IS IMMEDIATELY CLEAR IS THAT THIS LAW DOES MORE
THAN SIMPLY CHANGE THE NAME OF AN AGENCY.
IT REFLECTS, IN FACT, A POWERFUL SIGNAL, UNANIMOUSLY
PASSED BY THE CONGRESS, STRONGLY SUPPORTED AND PROUDLY
SIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT ...
DEFINITIVELY GIVING REPRESENTATION AT THE HIGHEST
LEVEL OF OUR GOVERNMENT TO THOSE WHO HAVE SUPPORTED
AND DEFENDED THE VALUES AND THE IDEALS THAT HAVE DEFINED
AMERICA AS A NATION.
FOR THAT, WE CERTAINLY WANT TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY
TO SAY A SINCERE "THANK YOU" TO ALL THOSE WHO WERE
INVOLVED IN THIS LEGISLATION.
2
AT THE SAME TIME, REFLECTION BY THOSE OF US IN THE VA
FAMILY MIGHT SUGGEST THAT WE USE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO
EXPRESS, IN THESE SOLEMN AND HOLY SURROUNDINGS, OUR
COMMITMENT TO FULFILL OUR MISSION OF SERVING VETERANS AND
AMERICA IN OUR NEW ROLE
AS THE "DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS."
CLEARLY, THAT COMMITMENT WILL BE TESTED.
TODAY, THERE ARE SIX TIMES AS MANY VETERANS ALIVE AS
THERE WERE WHEN THE VA WAS CREATED IN 1930. AND, AS THE
VETERAN POPULATION INCREASED, VETERANS PROGRAMS ALSO
GREW IN SIZE AND COMPLEXITY.
so, IN ADDITION TO THE FACT THAT ABOUT ONE-THIRD OF OUR
POPULATION NOW HAS AN IMMEDIATE FAMILY INVOLVEMENT IN
VETERANS AFFAIRS
WE'VE SEEN THAT PROGRAMS ADMINISTERED BY THE VA
HAVE COME TO HAVE AN EVEN BROADER, NATIONAL IMPACT IN OUR
SOCIETY -- IN THE FIELDS OF HEALTH CARE, EDUCATION, HOUSING
AND INSURANCE.
IN RECENT YEARS, IT HAD BECOME INCREASINGLY CLEAR THAT
VETERANS PROGRAMS HAD REACHED A CRITICAL JUNCTURE ...
A POINT AT WHICH THEY COULD BE RESTRAINED HELD
BACK NOT GIVEN THE IMPORTANCE THEY CLEARLY MERITED IN
OUR GOVERNMENT AND IN OUR SOCIETY
3
OR A POINT AT WHICH A LOGICAL EVOLUTION COULD TAKE
PLACE, ALLOWING THESE PROGRAMS TO REACH THE ULTIMATE, TOP
LEVEL OF GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION;
A PLACE FROM WHICH THEY COULD CONTRIBUTE FULLY TO
OUR SOCIETY;
A PLACE IN THE CABINET OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED
STATES
so WHEN THIS LEGISLATION WAS SIGNED LAST WEEK, WE
WITNESSED A PIVITOL MOMENT IN THE HISTORY OF VETERANS
AFFAIRS.
AND THE EMPLOYEES OF WHAT WE'VE BEEN PROUD TO CALL,
SIMPLY - "THE VA" -- WILL BE MORE THAN WITNESS TO THAT
HISTORY: THEY WILL BE PART OF IT ...
... PART OF IT IN THAT THEIR SENSE OF MISSION, THEIR
DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE, THEIR DETERMINATION TO SEE TO IT
THAT VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES RECEIVE THE BENEFITS TO
WHICH THEY ARE ENTITLED ...
ARE THE VERY THINGS THAT WILL PROVE THE VALUE OF
MAKING THE EXPERTISE IN VA PROGRAMS AVAILABLE TO OUR
SOCIETY AT LARGE THROUGH CABINET
REPRESENTATION.
TO SOME EXTENT, PUBLIC LAW 100-527 WAS A SYMBOLIC
ACTION, TOO.
AND AS WE REFLECT TODAY ON THE NEED FOR THAT
SYMBOLISM, WE MIGHT WELL RECALL AN INSCRIPTION ON AN OLD
STONE SENTRY BOX IN GIBRALTER. IT GOES LIKE THIS:
4
"GOD AND THE SOLDIER ALL MEN ADORE, IN TIME OF TROUBLE
AND NO MORE; FOR WHEN WAR IS OVER, AND ALL THINGS RIGHTED,
GOD IS NEGLECTED, THE OLD SOLDIER SLIGHTED."
CERTAINLY, THERE'S NO WAY TO LEGISLATE THAT A NATION
WILL NOT FORGET GOD. THAT'S SOMETHING THAT HAS TO COME
FROM WITHIN EACH INDIVIDUAL.
AND THIS NEW LEGISLATION DOES NOT, IN ITSELF, GUARANTEE
THAT OUR FORMER SOLDIERS
AND SAILORS, AIRMEN AND MARINES
WON'T BE SLIGHTED. ACHIEVING THAT REQUIRES A
CONTINUOUS PROCESS, INVOLVING NOT ONLY GOVERNMENT, BUT
ALL OUR CITIZENS.
BUT THE NEW LEGISLATION GIVES US SOME ADDED
STRUCTURE TO AID IN THAT PROCESS
NOT ONLY OPENING THE WAY FOR VETERANS PROGRAMS TO
BE MORE BENEFICIAL FOR OUR SOCIETY
BUT MAKING THEM MORE VISIBLE, AS A DEMONSTRATION OF
THE DEPTH OF FEELING AMERICA CONTINUES TO HAVE FOR THOSE
WHO HAVE SERVED IN ITS MILITARY FORCES, AND NOW BEAR THE
TITLE, "VETERAN."
I KNOW THE FAMILY OF EMPLOYEES, VOLUNTEERS AND
VETERANS ADVOCATES WHO WORKED so WELL TOGETHER AS THE
"VETERANS ADMINISTRATION'
WILL BE CHALLENGED AND INSPIRED BY THIS NEW
LEGISLATION
5
AND THAT THIS FAMILY WILL ESTABLISH AN EQUALLY
IMPRESSIVE RECORD OF ACCOMPLISHMENT BEGINNING MARCH 15,
1989, AS IT OFFICIALLY BECOMES THE "DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS
AFFAIRS."
MAY GOD BLESS THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS --
THOSE WHO WILL WORK IN IT -- AND THOSE WHOM IT WILL SERVE.
GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.
6
REMARKS
HONORABLE THOMAS E. HARVEY
DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
DONALD MUNROE MEMORIAL LECTURE
33RD ANNUAL MEETING
AMERICAN PARAPLEGIA SOCIETY
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
SEPTEMBER 22, 1987
**
1
PRESIDENT GEORGE DIRECTOR PETERS DISTINGUISHED
MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY LADIES AND GENTLEMEN ...
I'M HONORED TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO DELIVER THE
MUNROE MEMORIAL LECTURE.
I'D LIKE TO START BY EXPRESSING MY ADMIRATION OF THE
AMERICAN PARAPLEGIA SOCIETY FOR THE PROFESSIONALISM YOU
BRING TO THIS UNIQUE AREA OF HEALTH CARE THROUGHOUT THE
YEAR, AND FOR THE EXCELLENCE OF THIS PARTICULAR MEETING'S
DESIGN.
WHEN I LOOKED AT THIS WEEK'S PROGRAM, AND SAW THE
NAMES OF so MANY OUTSTANDING CLINICIANS AND SCIENTISTS, I
HAVE TO CONFESS I WONDERED HOW A MERE LAYMAN -- AND A
LAWYER AT THAT COULD REALLY CONTRIBUTE ANYTHING OF
SIGNIFICANCE.
MY SITUATION HERE IS LIKE THAT OF THE OFTEN-CONVICTED
PRISONER WHO CAME BEFORE THE COURT FOR SENTENCING.
THE JUDGE SAID, "I FIND YOU GUILTY ON TWENTY-SIX COUNTS
AND SENTENCE YOU TO A TOTAL OF 130 YEARS."
AT THIS, THE PRISONER BURST INTO TEARS. AND THE JUDGE,
TAKING THIS AS A SIGN OF REMORSE, SAID IN A SOFTENED TONE
"...I DIDN'T MEAN TO BE so HARSH; YOU DON'T HAVE TO SERVE
THE WHOLE 130 YEARS."
WITH A BENIGN SMILE, THE JUDGE LEANED TOWARD THE
PRISONER, WHOSE FACE SHOWED A NEW-FOUND HOPE. THEN THE
JUDGE ADDED:
"JUST DO AS MUCH AS YOU CAN."
2
WELL, I'LL JUST DO AS MUCH AS I CAN TO DESCRIBE, IN A
FEW WORDS, THE TREMENDOUS IMPORTANCE WE IN THE VETERANS
ADMINISTRATION PLACE ON IMPROVING THE LIVES OF THE SPINAL
CORD INJURED.
IT WOULD BE HARD TO IMAGINE ANY WORK THAT MORE
CLOSELY FITS THE FUNDAMENTAL MISSION OF THE VETERANS
ADMINISTRATION THAN FINDING WAYS TO RESTORE MAXIMUM
FUNCTION, AND TO ASSURE THE HIGHEST QUALITY OF LIFE, FOR
AMERICA'S MOST SEVERELY DISABLED VETERANS.
UNFORTUNATELY, FOR THOSE WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY,
GETTING THERE IS A LOT MORE DIFFICULT THAN SIMPLY STATING
THE DIRECTIONS.
IF YOU CONSIDER THE COMPLEXITIES OF PARAPLEGIA AND THE
MANY DISCIPLINES INVOLVED IN PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE CARE
IN THIS AREA , IT'S PRETTY CLEAR SOME UNIFYING DIRECTION IS IN
ORDER.
CONSIDER, AS AN ANALOGY, THE CASE OF THE LOCAL DOCTOR
CALLED TO A FARM HOME TO TREAT A CHILD.
DIRECTIONS WERE PROVIDED TO THE DOCTOR: "JUST TAKE
THE LOWER ROAD, TURN LEFT AT THE FIRST CORNER, TRAVEL
ABOUT TWO MORE MILES, AND THERE IT IS -- YOU CAN'T MISS IT,
I'LL HANG A LANTERN ON THE FRONT PORCH."
THE DOCTOR WENT, BUT COULDN'T SEE THE LIGHT. HE
TRAVELED BACK AND FORTH ALONG THE HIGHWAY SEVERAL TIMES,
THEN WENT BACK TO HIS TELEPHONE.
HE CALLED THE SICK CHILD'S FATHER, AND SAID: "I GUESS
YOU'LL HAVE TO GIVE ME THOSE DIRECTIONS AGAIN."
3
AND THE MAN ON THE PHONE ANSWERED CHEERFULLY: "OH
IT'S YOU, DOC; THE KID GOT BETTER AFTER I CALLED YOU THE
FIRST TIME, so I TOOK DOWN THE LANTERN."
IN THE CASE OF TREATING PARAPLEGIA, IT SEEMS TO ME THAT
A LACK OF A UNIFIED APPROACH CAN HAVE THE EFFECT OF "TAKING
DOWN THE LANTERN" ...
... LEAVING PROGRAM ADMINISTRATORS, PROFESSIONAL STAFF
AND - WORST OF ALL -- PATIENTS IN THE DARK.
FROM MY OWN OBSERVATIONS, AND FROM MY DISCUSSIONS
WITH THE CHIEF OF VA'S SPINAL CORD INJURY SERVICE, DOCTOR
JOE BINARD, I'VE RECOGNIZED THAT YOU WHO ARE TRYING TO
ILLUMINATE THE PATH TO A BALANCED RESPONSE TO THE NEEDS
OF THE SPINAL CORD INJURED ARE CONFRONTING NOT ONLY THE
CLINICAL AND SCIENTIFIC COMPLEXITIES OF THE DISABILITY, BUT
SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT PRIORITIES WITHIN THE MEDICAL
PROFESSIONAL WORLD.
IN SHORT, I -- AS A LAYMAN - HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO FIND
MUCH CONSENSUS AMONG MEDICAL EXPERTS ON THE ISSUE OF
HOW TO STRUCTURE A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO THIS
DISABILITY.
so WHEN I WAS ASKED TO TALK ABOUT THIS SUBJECT HERE
TODAY, I DECIDED I MIGHT AS WELL SPEAK FROM THE VANTAGE
POINT OF MY OWN, RATHER SIMPLE UNDERSTANDING OF THIS
ISSUE.
I'VE THOUGHT BACK TO MY OWN FIRST ENCOUNTERS WITH THIS
DISABILITY.
4
I WAS, OF COURSE, EXPOSED TO PERSONS WITH SPINAL CORD
INJURIES BEFORE MY MILITARY SERVICE YEARS, BUT IT WASN'T
UNTIL I SERVED IN VIETNAM THAT I FULLY BEGAN TO APPRECIATE
SOME OF THE UNIQUELY POIGNANT ASPECTS OF THIS INJURY.
WHILE LIFE WENT ON PRETTY MUCH UNCHANGED HERE IN THE
UNITED STATES, LIFE IN VIETNAM INCLUDED THE BOOBY TRAP, THE
LAND MINE, THE SNIPER ROUND -- EACH CAPABLE OF INSTANTLY
TRANSFORMING A HEALTHY YOUNG SOLDIER INTO A PARTIALLY
LIFELESS FORM.
TWENTY YEARS TO REAR, SOCIALLY DEVELOP, PHYSICALLY
STRENGTHEN, EDUCATE AND TRAIN A YOUNG MAN ONE, TERRIBLE
INSTANT TO REDUCE HIM TO IRREVERSABLE PARALYSIS.
ON A MORE PERSONAL NOTE, MY OWN FATHER HAS BEEN
CONFINED TO A WHEELCHAIR SINCE HAVING SURGERY ON HIS
NECK A YEAR AGO.
WITH THIS TYPE OF EXPOSURE TO SPINAL CORD INJURY, I'VE
TAKEN A RATHER KEEN INTEREST IN PROGRAMS FOR VETERANS
WITH THIS DISABILITY.
FIRST WITH THE SENATE COMMITTEE, AND SUBSEQUENTLY IN
MY PRESENT JOB, I'VE VISITED VA SPINAL CORD INJURY CENTERS,
REVIEWED THE RESEARCH, ATTENDED DEMONSTRATIONS OF
MOBILITY AIDS, AND MET WITH VA PROGRAM EXPERTS ON
PARAPLEGIA AS WELL AS THE SPINAL CORD INJURED VETERANS
THEY SERVE.
WHAT I'VE SEEN HAS GIVEN ME MIXED FEELINGS.
5
I'VE BEEN TREMENDOUSLY IMPRESSED BY THE
PROFESSIONALS WORKING IN THIS AREA -- NOTABLY WITHIN THE
VA'S TWENTY SPINAL CORD INJURY CENTERS AND IN VA RESEARCH
LABS AROUND THE COUNTRY.
BUT I'VE FOUND IT DISCONCERTING THAT TREATMENT OF, AND
RESEARCH INTO, SPINAL CORD INJURY DOES NOT SEEM TO HAVE
GAINED STRONG FOCUS WITHIN THE MEDICAL COMMUNITY.
FOR EXAMPLE, MUCH OF THE POPULAR ATTENTION GIVEN TO
THE VA'S ACTIVITIES DEALING WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY HAS
COME IN THE AREA OF MOBILITY AIDS. TO BE SURE,
REHABILITATION ENGINEERING RESEARCH -- WITH ITS DRAMATIC
USE OF HIGH TECHNOLOGY -- IS EXCITING.
MICRO-PROCESSOR "MIRACLES" IN ROBOTICS, FUNCTIONAL
ELECTRICAL STIMULATION, AND COMPUTER CONTROLLED
WHEELCHAIRS ARE VISUALLY SPECTACULAR, AND HOLD GREAT
PROMISE FOR THE FUTURE. WE'RE PROUD OF THE RESEARCH OUR
VA PEOPLE HAVE DONE IN THIS AREA, AND WE'RE COMMITTED TO
CONTINUE IT.
YET THE PREVALENCE OF PUBLICITY IN THIS AREA MAY, IN
FACT, REFLECT A LACK OF PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT THE
MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES ARE, AND WHERE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT
NEEDS LIE.
MY DISCUSSIONS WITH THE TRUE EXPERTS IN PARAPLEGIA --
PEOPLE LIKE DOCTOR BEN MOELLER, WHOM I MET AT THE
DEDICATION OF THE NEW VA SPINAL CORD INJURY CENTER AT
MEMPHIS, AND DOCTOR BOB HUSSEY, WHO I MET WHILE VISITING
THE SPINAL CORD INJURY CENTER AT THE RICHMOND VA MEDICAL
CENTER -- HAVE CONVINCED ME THAT PROGRESS IS NEEDED IN
AREAS THAT ARE OF MORE IMMEDIATE AND UNIVERSAL
SIGNIFICANCE.
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WE KNOW THE NEEDS OF OUR SPINAL CORD INJURED
VETERANS ARE MORE ACCURATELY DIAGNOSED AND MORE
EFFECTIVELY TREATED IN OUR 20 SCI CENTERS. BUT NEARLY HALF
OUR SPINAL CORD INJURED PATIENTS ARE STILL CARED FOR IN VA
MEDICAL FACILITIES THAT ARE WITHOUT THE SPECIALIZED
EXPERTISE OF THESE CENTERS.
I'M NOT SURE IF THE ANSWER IS MORE CENTERS, OR
SPREADING THE EXPERTISE TO OTHER HEALTH CARE FACILITIES,
OR BOTH.
BUT IT DOES SEEM APPARENT THAT NEW STAFF -- TRAINED IN
SPINAL CORD INJURY -- NEED TO BE BROUGHT INTO THE EQUATION,
NOT JUST IN VA, BUT THROUGHOUT THE SOCIETY DEALING WITH
PARAPLEGIA.
WE NEED TO FIND A WAY TO CONVINCE THOSE INVOLVED IN
MEDICAL EDUCATION THERE'S A SERIOUS NEED FOR MORE
TRAINING FOR PHYSICIANS, NURSE SPECIALISTS AND OTHER
ALLIED HEALTH PERSONNEL IN THIS FIELD.
IN THIS CONTEXT, I'VE NOTED THAT VA'S OWN SCI CENTERS
ARE DIRECTED BY PHYSICIANS FROM VARIOUS SPECIALTIES --
SURGEONS, ORTHOPEDISTS, UROLOGISTS, INTERNISTS AND
OTHERS.
THESE PHYSICIANS DO A MAGNIFICENT JOB, AS DO THEIR
COLLEAGUES IN NURSING AND OTHER SUPPORT ROLES, AND WE'RE
EXTREMELY PROUD OF THEM.
BUT IN RECOGNITION OF THE UNIQUE BODY OF CLINICAL
EXPERIENCE OBVIOUSLY REQUIRED IN DEALING WITH SPINAL CORD
INJURY, THERE WOULD SEEM TO BE REAL MERIT TO THE CONCEPT
OF DEFINING A DISCRETE PROFESSIONAL SPECIALTY IN THIS AREA,
AS I UNDERSTAND HAS HAPPENED IN EUROPE, WITH THE
DISTINCTION "PARAPLEGIST."
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CERTAINLY, THE INVESTMENT OF NOT ONLY PERSONNEL, BUT
ALL OTHER MEDICAL RESOURCES IS CLOSELY RELATED TO THE
NUMBER OF PERSONS WHO SUFFER A PARTICULAR DISEASE OR
DISABILITY.
WE KNOW CLINICAL TRIALS OF POTENTIAL NEW TREATMENTS
FOR SPINAL CORD INJURY AREN'T VERY APPEALING TO MOST
PHARMACEUTICAL AND SUPPLY COMPANIES -- WITH THE
RELATIVELY SMALL PATIENT POPULATION OFFERING LITTLE
CHANCE OF RECOVERING DEVELOPMENT COSTS.
THAT'S WHY THIS IS AN AREA FOR VERY LEGITIMATE SUPPORT
UNDER THE ORPHAN DRUG LEGISLATION.
IN THAT CONTEXT, I THINK IT'S CRITICAL FOR INTRAMURAL,
FEDERAL PROGRAMS -- LIKE THAT OF THE VA -- TO CONTINUE TO
IDENTIFY DRUGS AND OTHER TYPES OF ORPHAN DEVICES THAT
MAY QUALIFY FOR THIS DISTINCTION.
AND IT'S EQUALLY IMPORTANT FOR CONCERNED, AWARE
ORGANIZATIONS -- LIKE THE AMERICAN PARAPLEGIA SOCIETY AND
THE PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA -- TO CONTINUE TO PRESS
FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THESE TREATMENTS.
I'D LIKE TO MENTION SOMETHING ELSE THAT SEEMS TO ME TO
BE A VITAL FACTOR IN AN EFFECTIVE, COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH
TO ADVANCING THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR THOSE WITH SPINAL
CORD INJURY.
I JUST RETURNED FROM THE SEVENTH NATIONAL VETERANS
WHEELCHAIR GAMES IN ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN.
THIS WAS THE LARGEST WHEELCHAIR ATHLETIC EVENT EVER
HELD IN THE UNITED STATES, AND - AS YOU MIGHT IMAGINE -- IT
WAS THE SCENE OF MANY POWERFUL HUMAN INTEREST STORIES.
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THERE WERE 475 WHEELCHAIR-BOUND VETERANS COMPETING
AT THE GAMES -- MOST OF THEM PARAPLEGICS
BUT THE STORY I HAVE IN MIND INVOLVES SOMEONE WHO IS
NOT A VETERAN.
AT ONE POINT IN THE GAMES, SOME OF THE PARTICIPANTS
NOTICED A BOY IN A WHEELCHAIR WATCHING FROM THE TOP OF A
LITTLE RISE NEXT TO THE FIELD.
THE BOY MADE NO MOVE TO COME CLOSER; HE JUST SAT
WATCHING THE VARIOUS EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE DAY. FINALLY,
ONE OF THE PARTICIPANTS, A VIETNAM VETERAN NAMED RUSS
MONROE, WHEELED UP THE HILL TO TALK WITH THE YOUNG MAN.
GETTING UP THAT HILL WASN'T MUCH OF A CHALLENGE FOR
RUSS -- HE'S A POWERFUL YOUNG MAN WHO'D JUST WON HIS
SIXTH GOLD MEDAL IN COMPETITION AT THE GAMES.
THE BOY WAS JEFF BEVERLY -- A SIXTEEN YEAR OLD FROM A
NEARBY COMMUNITY. HE BECAME A PARAPLEGIC IN AN
AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT A FEW MONTHS AGO.
JEFF'S SOCIAL WORKER HAD READ ABOUT THE WHEELCHAIR
GAMES IN THE NEWSPAPER, AND DECIDED TO BRING HIM THERE TO
SEE IF IT COULD BE A MOTIVATING EXPERIENCE FOR THE BOY.
I WOULD GUESS THAT'S SOMETHING THIS AUDIENCE CAN
IDENTIFY WITH. I'M SURE MANY OF YOU KNOW THE KIND OF
CHALLENGE IT IS TO EXPLAIN TO A YOUNGSTER THAT LIFE HAS
CHANGED - FOREVER THAT HE'LL NEVER HAVE THE KIND OF LIFE
HIS FRIENDS WILL HAVE.
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THOSE WHO HAVE HAD THAT EXPERIENCE KNOW THAT THE
PARAPLEGIC MAY HAVE DIFFICULTY ACCEPTING THE PROGNOSIS OF
FINALITY FROM THE PHYSICIAN; MAY NOT READILY ACCEPT THE
COUNSELING OF OTHERS ON THE NURSING TEAM; MAY RESIST THE
ENCOURAGEMENT OF SOCIAL WORKERS THAT THERE IS STILL
QUALITY IN LIFE: THAT LIFE IS WORTH LIVING AND CAN BE LIVED
FULLY.
THE DOUBTS AND THE DESPAIR MANY OF YOU HAVE
ENCOUNTERED IN YOUR PATIENTS WERE THERE IN JEFF BEVERLY
WHEN HE CAME TO THE WHEELCHAIR GAMES.
BUT THE MEN HE SAW THERE DID NOT REFLECT DOUBTS OR
DESPAIR. HE SAW THINGS DONE IN A WHEELCHAIR HE HAD NEVER
IMAGINED -- BY MEN OF POWER AND GRACE MEN WHO WENT
AROUND THE TRACK IN THEIR RACING CHAIRS AT SPEEDS RUNNERS
COULD NEVER MATCH.
HE ALSO SAW MEN AND WOMEN -- QUADRIPLEGICS -- MORE
SERIOUSLY DISABLED THAN HIMSELF SOME WHO COULD HARDLY
MAKE IT AROUND THE TRACK AT ALL. YET THEY PUSHED ON ...
TOUGH, DETERMINED, THOROUGHLY PART OF THE COMPETITION;
AND THOROUGHLY ENGAGED IN LIFE.
YOUNG JEFF WATCHED FROM THE TOP OF THAT HILL, A WAYS
REMOVED FROM THE HEAT OF THE COMPETITION. BUT HE COULD
FEEL SOME OF THE FIRE THAT BURNED IN THE COMPETITORS.
WITH A LITTLE COAXING AND A LITTLE KIDDING, RUSS MONROE
AND THE OTHER VETERANS GOT THE YOUNGSTER DOWN TO THE
TRACK. AND THEN INTO ONE OF THE RACING WHEELCHAIRS. AS
YOUNG JEFF TRIED OUT THE LIGHTWEIGHT CHAIR, A SMOLDERING
SPARK OF ENTHUSIASM WAS FANNED INTO THE FIRST REAL
EXCITEMENT HE'D FELT SINCE HIS INJURY.
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FOR RUSS MONROE, THIS WAS ONE OF MANY HIGHPOINTS AT
THE GAMES. FOR HIS SPORTSMANSHIP AND HIS HUMAN QUALITIES
IN HELPING OTHERS, HE WON A "SPIRIT OF THE GAMES" AWARD TO
ADD TO HIS SIX GOLD MEDALS.
BUT YOUNG JEFF BEVERLY WON MORE - A NEW BELIEF THAT HE
COULD FIND, WITHIN HIMSELF, AN ENTHUSIASM THAT COULD
ERASE DOUBTS ABOUT HAVING A VITAL LIFE AGAIN.
IF WE CAN FIND A WAY TO HARNESS THAT TREMENDOUS
POWER WITHIN THE PATIENTS THEMSELVES -- A WAY TO CHANNEL
IT IN A DEPENDABLE FASHION; A WAY TO TRANSPLANT IT IN OTHER
PATIENTS I THINK WE'LL HAVE A GREAT TOOL TO COMPLIMENT
THE PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT OF PARAPLEGIA.
AT THE VA, WE'RE FURTHER EXPLORING THIS FERTILE GROUND
OF THE PEER GROUP COUNSELING CONCEPT. THE FIRST MEETINGS
BETWEEN OUR SPINAL CORD INJURY EXPERTS AND OUR SOCIAL
WORKERS HAVE JUST GOTTEN UNDERWAY ON THIS, AND WE INVITE
ALL OF YOU WITH AN INTEREST IN THIS AREA TO SHARE WITH US
YOUR IDEAS AND EXPERIENCES.
WORKING TOGETHER ON IDEAS LIKE THIS - AND IN ALL OUR
OTHER PURSUITS I BELIEVE WE WILL FIND THAT ILLUSIVE
LANTERN GIVING DIRECTIONS, TO LIGHT UP THE LIVES OF PEOPLE
LIKE YOUNG JEFF BEVERLY, AND TO ILLUMINATE THE PATH
TOWARDS IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ALL THOSE WHO SUFFER
PARAPLEGIA.
THANK YOU, AND GOD BLESS YOU.
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