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The original documents are located in Box D31, folder "Steuben Society, New York, NY,
May 22, 1971" of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
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We invote you To participate perfecting
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STEUBEN SOCIETY, 7 P.M. SATURDAY, MAY 22,
DAY
NEW YORK
1971, AT THE AMERICANA Ballocke HOTEL, NEW YORK,
Inc
Amd/ord
GOOD EVENING. I AM VERY HAPPY
TO BE HERE. IT IS ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO
BE AMONG CITIZENS WHO HAVE A DEEP DEVOTION
TO DUTY AND A KEEN AWARENESS OF THEIR
RESPONSIBILITIES AS AMERICANS.
I SHARE WITH YOU YOUR PRIDE IN
THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE REVOLUTIONARY
WAR GENERAL, FREDERICK WILLIAN VON STEUBEN.
CERTAINLY GENERAL VON STEUBEN OCCUPIES A
PLACE OF GREAT HONOR IN THE HISTORY OF
AMERICA. IT MIGHT WELL BE SAID THAT THE
AMERICAN COLONISTS WOULD NEVER HAVE WON
THEIR FREEDOM WITHOUT HIS VALIANT SERVICES.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
Digitized from Box D31 of The Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
-2-
IN LOOKING OVER THE STEUBEN
SOCIETY'S OBJECTIVES AND AIMS, I WAS MOST
IMPRESSED BY YOUR 14 POINTS AND NOTABLY
THE FACT THAT THIS SOCIETY IS "DEDICATED
TO ENLIGHTENED PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL
:
naturalty
STATE AND NATIONAL AFFAIRS."
MY REMARKS TONIGHT
ENTERTAINING. I HAVE NEVER BEEN VERY GOOD
AT COMEDY ROUTINES. BUT MY COMMENTS MAY
BE ENLIGHTENING.
ALL OF US IN AMERICA NEED ALL OF
THE ENLIGHTENMENT THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE,
FOR WE LIVE IN PERILOUS TIMES.
again
WE LIVE IN AN AGE WHEN FREEDOM
HAS COME HEAVILY UNDER ATTACK.
I SPEAK OF THE CONTINUING DANGER
OF COMMUNIST EXPANSIONISM.
I SPEAK OF AN ATMOSPHERE WHICH IS
BECOMING MORE AND MORE PERVASIVE AMONG
LIBRARY
-3-
AMERICANS, AN ATMOSPHERE WHICH IS GIVING
RISE TO BROADENED AND HEIGHTENED ATTACKS
ON THE FREE ENTERPRISE SYSTEM AND ON THE
INSTITUTION OF FREE DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT
ITSELF. Washing , D.C.
I SPEAK OF THE SOVIET DRIVE FOR
SUPERIORITY IN NUCLEAR POWER, IN
TECHNOLOGY AND IN NAVAL FORCES.
I SPEAK OF THE FACT THAT WHILE
THE SOVIET UNION CONTINUES TO INCREASE ITS
DEFENSE OUTLAYS, WE HAVE BEEN DRASTICALLY
REDUCING OURS IN CONSTANT DOLLARS.
WHILE THE SOVIET UNION MAKES
GREAT EFFORTS TO BUILD UP ITS NAVY, WE
ALLOW OURS TO RIDE AT ANCHOR. WHILE THE
SOVIET UNION SENDS INCREASING NUMBERS OF
SHIPS INTO THE MEDITERRANEAN, THE
CARIBBEAN AND THE INDIAN OCEAN, LEADING
MEMBERS OF THE UNITED STATES SENATE CAST
FORD is LIBRARY OF
-4-
ABOUT FOR WAYS TO CUT OUR DEFENSE BUDGET.
IN THE AREA OF NUCLEAR POWER,
THE SOVIETS IN THE LAST THREE YEARS HAVE
ACHIEVED PARITY WITH US. THE RUSSIANS NOW
ARE DEVELOPING SUPER WARHEADS, MUCH LARGER
THAN ANY IN OUR ARSENAL. AT THE SAME TIME
THE RUSSIANS HAVE BEEN INCREASING THE
NUMBER AND ACCURACY OF THEIR
INTERCONTINENTAL BALLISTIC MISSILES.
THE THREAT OF NUCLEAR WAR HANGS
OVER THE WORLD LIKE A TIME BOMB. LET US HOPE
THE PROCESS OF DEFUSING THAT BOMB BEGAN WITH
THE ANNOUNCEMENT LAST THURSDAY IN
WASHINGTON AND MOSCOW THAT THE UNITED
STATES AND THE SOVIET UNION HAD AGREED TO
NEGOTIATE LIMITATIONS ON BOTH OFFENSIVE
AND DEFENSIVE NUCLEAR WEAPONS
SIMULTANEOUSLY.
GLEATO FORD LIBRARY
THIS AGREEMENT IS CLEARLY ONE OF
-5-
THE MOST SIGNIFICANT BREAKTHROUGHS FOR
PEACE IN THE HISTORY OF THE MODERN WORLD --
A BREAKTHROUGH IN OUR EFFORTS TO PLACE
CURBS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF NUCLEAR
WEAPONS.
WHILE INTENSIVE NEGOTIATIONS LIE
AHEAD AND CONCRETE AGREEMENTS MAY YET
ELUDE US WE MUST RECOGNIZE THIS INITIAL
AGREEMENT AS A STEP TOWARD PRESERVING THE
PEACE OF THE WORLD AND A STEP TOWARD RELIEF
FROM THE CRUSHING COST BURDEN OF THE ARMS
RACE
THE U.S.-RUSSIAN AGREEMENT TO
afformatidy
PURSUE NEGOTIATIONS INVOLVING BOTH
OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE NUCLEAR WEAPONS
HOLDS A VAST POTENTIAL FOR BENEFIT TO
MANKIND. IT INDICATES A MORE ENLIGHTENED
ATTITUDE ON THE PART OF THE RUSSIANS. IT
FORD
PROMPTS ME TO LOOK FOR THE DAY WHEN WE BERALE CAN
BRARY
-6-
COME TO A SUBSTANTIVE ARMS CONTROL
AGREEMENT. I FEEL THERE IS GENUINE CAUSE
FOR OPTIMISM.
WHILE WE CONTINUE TO NEGOTIATE,
WE MUST ALWAYS KEEP IN MIND THAT PEACE
COMES TO THE STRONG.
MTHANK
THE
RECENTLY-ANNOUNCED U.S.-SOVIET AGREEMENT
POINTS UP THE FACT THAT PRESIDENT NIXON
3
HELD THE ABM IN HIS HAND AS A TRUMP CARD.
se
IT UNDERSCORES THE WISDOM OF HIS REFUSAL
it
"y"
TO THROW THAT CARD AWAY IN THE FACE OF
ATTACKS BY THE SENATE DOVES.
WE MUST NOT, OF COURSE, ALLOW
THE EXHILERATION OF THE MOMENT TO RUN
AWAY WITH REASON. logic.
MANY OBSTACLES LIE IN THE PATH OF
ANY FURTHER AGREEMENTS WITH THE SOVIET
UNION, AND NOT THE LEAST OF THESE HAS BEEN
THE RUSSIAN ATTEMPT TO BRING ABOUT THE
-7-
DISMANTLING OF THE NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY
ORGANIZATION.
IT IS A HOPEFUL NOTE THAT THE
RUSSIANS NOW ARE INDICATING A WILLINGNESS
TO DISCUSS A MUTUAL REDUCTION OF FORCES
IN EUROPE. THEY HAD BEEN INSISTING ON
A U.S. WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT A CORRESPONDING
SOVIET WITHDRAWAL FROM EASTERN EUROPE.
I AM OPPOSED TO A UNILATERAL
REDUCTION OF U.S. FORCES IN EUROPE NOW
OR AT ANY TIME IN THE FUTURE. OUR
OBJECTIVE SHOULD BE A MUTUAL REDUCTION
AND WE MUST EXPAND AND INTENSIFY OUR
NEGOTIATIONS TO THAT END.
UNILATERAL REDUCTION WOULD
WEAKEN THE POSSIBILITY OF GETTING THE
SOVIET UNION TO WITHDRAW SOME OF ITS FORCES
FROM EASTERN EUROPE.
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
-8-
I WELCOME LEONID BREZHNEV
1
INITIATIVE IN THIS REGARD. THIS WAS DA
RESPONSE TO A NATO INVITATION TO DUSCUSS
MUTUAL TROOP WITHDRAWALS. IT WILL BE ON
THE AGENDA OF THE NATO MEETING IN JUNE.
THERE is, OF COURSE, CONTINUING
TALK OF SHIFTING A GREATER PORTION OF THE
NATO EXPENSE BURDEN TO OUR NATO ALLIES.
IN VIEW OF OUR SHOCKINGLY POOR
BALANCE OF PAYMENTS SITUATION, A GREATER
CONTRIBUTION ON THE PART OF OUR NATO
ALLIES IS VERY MUCH TO BE DESIRED.
OF THE 300,000 U.S. TROOPS IN
EUROPE, 210,000 ARE STATIONED IN GERMANY.
MAINTAINING THIS LEVEL OF TROOPS IN
GERMANY CREATED A BALANCE-OF-PAYMENTS
OUTFLOW OF $1 BILLION EACH YEAR IN 1969
AND 1970.
FORD LIBRARY
-9-
FORTUNATELY, THE UNITED STATES
AND THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY
CONCLUDED AN AGREEMENT DESIGNED TO OFFSET
MOST OF THIS BALANCE-OF-PAYMENTS OUTFLOW
DURING THE PERIOD JULY 1, 1969 THROUGH
JUNE 30, 1971. WE NOW MUST NEGOTIATE A
NEW OFFSET AGREEMENT TO TAKE EFFECT WHEN
THE PRESENT AGREEMENT EXPIRES.
RETURNING TO THE MATTER OF A
UNILATERAL REDUCTION OF U.S. FORCES IN
EUROPE, I BELIEVE THIS IS A CASE OF
GIVING SOMETHING AWAY AND GETTING NOTHING
IN RETURN.
inmyply my
THIS IS WHAT IS WRONG WITH
GERMAN CHANCELLOR WILLI BRANDT'S EASTERN
POLICY.
BRANDT'S EASTERN POLICY IS LIKE
A SUPERMARKET HOPING TO COME OUT AHEAD ON
SOME OTHER ITEMS BY OFFERING ITS
GERALD
LIBRARY
-10-
CUSTOMERS SO-CALLED "LOSS LEADERS."
THE DANGER OF COURSE IS THAT THE
CUSTOMER WILL AVAIL HIMSELF OF THE LOSS
LEADER WITHOUT BUYING ANYTHING ELSE
AND THAT IS WHAT HAS HAPPENED
IN CONNECTION WITH CHANCELLOR BRANDT'S
EASTERN POLICY. THE SOVIET UNION HAS
SIGNED A NON-AGGRESSION PACT WITH THE
FEDERAL REPUBLIC BUT HAS REFUSED TO
COOPERATE ON THE QUESTIONS OF FREE AND
UNHINDERED CIVIL ACCESS TO BERLIN,
/
IMPROVEMENT OF TRAVEL AND COMMUNICATIONS
FOR BERLINERS WITHIN AND AROUND BERLIN
1
AND THE ENDING OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST
BERLIN BY THE SOVIET UNION AND SOME OF ITS
ALLIES.
THE GERMAN FEDERAL REPUBLIC HAS
KEPT ITS SKIRTS CLEAN BY REFUSING TO
RATIFY THE TREATIES WITH THE SOVIET UNION
FORD LIBRARY
-11-
AND POLAND UNTIL SUCH TIME AS THE BERLIN
QUESTIONS ARE SATISFACTORILY RESOLVED.
sense.
AS FOR EAST GERMANY, THAT
COMMUNIST STATE HAS REJECTED BRANDT'S
PROPOSAL OF TWO STATES IN A SINGLE GERMAN
NATION AND OFFERS OF CLOSER AND MORE
NATURAL INTER-GERMAN CONTACTS.
my comments should not
THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC HAS
REMAINED A LOYAL MEMBER OF NATO THROUGHOUT
ALL OF BRANDT'S OVERTURES TO HIS EASTERN
NEIGHBORS, AND OUR GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN IN
CLOSE CONSULTATION WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF
THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC.
WE HAVE EMPHASIZED THE FOUR-POWER
RIGHTS CONCERNING BERLIN WHERE THEY NEEDED
TO BE EMPHASIZED. THE ROUND OF EXCHANGES
ON BERLIN WHICH BEGAN IN MARCH 1970 WITH
THE SOVIET UNION ARE CONTINUING.
GERALD R. LIBRANY FORD
-12-
THE NIXON ADMINISTRATION,
WORKING WITH OUR NATO ALLIES, SEEKS A
EUROPEAN DETENTE. BUT WE ARE REALISTIC
ABOUT IT. OUR THINKING IS NOT BEFOGGED
WITH EUPHORIC MISCONCEPTIONS CONCERNING
SOVIET AIMS.
ANY PERMANENT EASING OF TENSION
IN EUROPE MUST INCLUDE PROGRESS IN
SOLVING THE PROBLEM OF A DIVIDED GERMANY.
THE GERMAN NATIONAL QUESTION IS
ONE FOR THE GERMAN PEOPLE TO DECIDE. BUT
THERE IS NO DOUBT IN MY MIND THAT THIS
QUESTION ULTIMATELY WILL BE RESOLVED ONLY
BECAUSE THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC SPEAKS FROM
A POSITION OF STRENGTH- ITS SECURE
POSITION AS A MEMBER OF A STRONG NATO.
AS PRESIDENT NIXON HAS SAID,
"REDUCING THE MILITARY CONFRONTATION IN
EUROPE IS IN THE COMMON INTEREST OF
GLEALOR FORD LIBRARD
-13-
EAST AND WEST. OUR MUTUAL OBJECTIVE SHOULD
BE TO CREATE A MORE STABLE MILITARY
BALANCE AT LOWER LEVELS AND LOWER COSTS."
BUT WHILE WE SEEK TO REDUCE
THE MILITARY CONFRONTATION, WE MUST MAINTAIN
THE RELATIVE STRENGTH OF NATO AND CONTINUE
AMERICA'S STRONG ROLE IN NATO.
AMERICANS AND EUROPEANS NEED
CONSTANTLY TO BE REMINDED OF THE SOVIET
UNION'S WESTWARD EXPANSION AT THE CLOSE
OF WORLD WAR 11.
IT WAS NOT UNTIL THE RUSSIANS
HAD BROUGHT POLAND, EAST GERMANY, HUNGARY,
BULGARIA, RUMANIA AND CZECHOSLOVAKIA INTO
THE COMMUNIST CAMP THAT THE FREE NATIONS
OF EUROPE JOINED WITH THE UNITED STATES
AND CANADA TO FORM THE NATO SHIELD AGAINST
FURTHER ENCROACHMENTS ON THE ATLANTIC
WORLD.
GERALD R. LISBURY FORD
-14-
THE 15-MEMBER NORTH ATLANTIC
TREATY ORGANIZATION DEVELOPED INTO AN
ALLIANCE THAT RIMMED RUSSIA FROM NORWAY
ON THE NORTH TO TURKEY ON THE SOUTH. THUS
DID NATO STOP THE SOVIETS TERRITORIAL
AGGRANDIZEMENT.
NATO'S PRINCIPAL VALUE TO WORLD
PEACE LIES IN ITS MILITARY STRENGTH
WE
MUST KEEP NATO STRONG. WE MUST NOT ALLOW
IT TO LAPSE INTO DISREPAIR. OUR
CONTRIBUTION OF U.S. FORCES TO NATO IS
THE BASIS OF OUR ALLIES' CONFIDENCE IN
US. WE CANNOT ALLOW THAT CONFIDENCE TO
WAVER.
WHAT SHOULD BE THE BASIS OF NATO
STRATEGY IN SEEKING TO DETER AGGRESSION?
WE MUST HAVE FORCES ABLE TO DEFEND
AGAINST THE ENEMY WITHOUT IMMEDIATE RESORT
TO NUCLEAR WAR. THIS WOULD GIVE US FULL
BRARY
-15-
FLEXIBILITY IN RESPONDING TO ANY OUTBREAK
OF HOSTILITIES. WE MUST BE CAPABLE OF A
STRONG AND CREDIBLE DEPLOYMENT OF MODERN
NATO CONVENTIONAL FORCES. AMERICA'S
GUARANTEE OF NUCLEAR DEFENSE is, OF COURSE,
CRUCIAL. IT SHOULD NOT, HOWEVER, BE THE
SOLE BASIS OF ALLIED DETERRENCE.
AND SO WE MUST REMAIN VIGILANT
AND WE MUST REMAIN STRONG -- WHILE AT THE
SAME TIME WE SEEK TO WEAVE THE FABRIC OF
AN ENDURING PEACE.
EVERY NOW AND AGAIN I THINK OF
WHAT I CONSIDER TO BE ONE OF THE GREATEST
SPEECHES EVER GIVEN BY AN AMERICAN
PRESIDENT.
I HAVE IN MIND PRESIDENT
EISENHOWER'S FAREWELL RADIO AND TELEVISION
ADDRESS TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, DELIVERED
JANUARY 17, 1961.
FORD LIBRARY y BER ALD
-16-
according The media
THAT SPEECH IS MOST FAMOUS
BECAUSE OF IKE'S WARNING ABOUT THE DANGERS
OF UNDUE INFLUENCE ON THE PART OF THE
MILITARY-INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX. BUT IKE THAT
NIGHT SAID MANY OTHER THINGS FAR MORE
IMPORTANT.
AT ONE POINT, HE SAID. "UNTIL THE
LATEST OF OUR WORLD CONFLICTS, THE UNITED
STATES HAD NO ARMAMENT INDUSTRY. AMERICAN
MAKERS OF PLOWSHARES COULD, WITH TIME AND
AS REQUIRED, MAKE SWORDS AS WELL. BUT
NOW WE CAN NO LONGER RISK EMERGENCY
IMPROVISATION OF NATIONAL DEFENSE; WE HAVE
BEEN COMPELLED TO CREATE A PERMANENT
ARMAMENTS INDUSTRY OF VAST PROPORTIONS."
A LITTLE EARLIER IN HIS this same
ADDRESS, IKE DECLARED: "A VITAL ELEMENT
IN KEEPING THE PEACE IS OUR MILITARY
ESTABLISHMENT. OUR ARMS MUST BE MIGHTY
FORD LIBRARY
-17-
READY FOR INSTANT ACTION, SO THAT NO
POTENTIAL AGGRESSOR MAY BE TEMPTED TO RISK
HIS OWN DESTRUCTION."
THIS IS MY MESSAGE TO YOU TONIGHT --
THAT WE AVOID FEAR AND HATE BUT THAT WE
KNOW THE ENEMY AND BE EVER READY TO MEET
HIM IF AND WHEN THAT DIRE EVENT IS THRUST
UPON US IT IS ONLY THUS THAT WE CAN FILL
THE ROLE OF PEACEMAKERS IN THE KIND OF
WORLD IN WHICH WE LIVE.
1. CONGRATULATE THE STEUBEN
SOCIETY BECAUSE I KNOW YOU ARE DEDICATED
TO THOSE PRINCIPLES WHICH HAVE MADE AMERICA
GREAT.
LET US ALL EMBRACE THOSE
PRINCIPLES AND MOVE FORWARD TOGETHER IN
PURSUIT OF PEACE AND JUSTICE FOR PEOPLES
THROUGHOUT THE WORLD,
--END--
The Steuben Society is committed to the promotion
Fourteen Points About
10-This Society is composed of administrative
of good will and lasting friendly relations with the
groups, known as "Units" and executive groups,
Germanic peoples of Europe based upon mutual re-
The Steuben Society of America
called "Councils". To the District Councils are
spect for each other's sovereignty and right to manage
elected delegates and alternates from Units on a
their own internal affairs. The teaching of the Ger-
Its Policy and Activities
representative basis. To the State Councils are
elected delegates and alternates from Units; Chair-
man language in our public schools is one of the es-
sentials to this end.
1-This Society aims to loyally support the Constitu-
men and Secretaries of District Councils are auto-
tion of the United States of America, advocates
matically delegates. The National Council is com-
the proper application of its provisions, and en-
posed of delegates and alternates elected in each
Duty, Tolerance, Charity and Justice are not only
deavors to inculcate the principles underlying
State on the basis of the number of Units. Such
cornerstones of the structure of the Steuben Society
government by a Federal Republic with limited,
elections have the nature of promotion for ability
of America, but are fundamental to the existence of
delegated powers.
displayed and service rendered.
the American Republic itself. Upon this foundation
11-This Society's members must be citizens of the
the Society is satisfied to have its edifice rest forever.
2-This Society is dedicated to maintaining the in-
United States of America, must be able to vote, be
dependence and sovereignty of the United States
of good repute and, wholly or in part; of German-
of America and its freedom from all foreign in-
ic origin. Persons who were shifters and trimmers,
fluence.
or who are known to possess no pride of ancestry
are not eligible for membership. No distinctions
"THE OBJECTIVE"
3-This Society engages in City, County, State and
National civic affairs. The Unit attends to local
are drawn as to creed or political tendency.
The Society's object is to draw into closer relation-
matters, the District Council to a larger political
11a-Germanic immigrants, desirous of becoming citi-
ship through historic and ethnic bonds of sympathy,
division, the State Council to State matters and
zens, who otherwise possess the above-mentioned
Americans who maintain their faith in the sturdy vir-
the National Council to National matters and
qualifications may join a "Prospective Citizens
tues of the race of Steuben, as manifested in the mak-
Foreign Affairs.
League". Where such a League does not now
ing of America from the earliest settlements on the
exist, a group of 15 or more such future citizens
4-This Society pledges itself to promote the election
may apply to the nearest Unit or Council of the
North American continent to the present day. This
to public office of men and women known to be
Society for a charter.
task it has set itself to perform as an American So-
reliable and worthy, who will strive to preserve
ciety to advance the causes of popular historical and
12-This Society holds that quality is the first con-
and strengthen our Constitution and sovereignty,
political education, a more just appraisal of historic
sideration, quality being based not on wealth or
and who recognize our Constitution as the su-
and ethnic values, and to interpret and perpetuate
position, but upon personal worth.
preme law of the land.
American principles of liberty; to further promote
13-This Society endeavors to maintain strict disci-
American solidarity and to exalt the American ideal
5-This Society uses the American language. The
pline. Self-seeking is made impossible by the Laws
of government "of, by and for the people"!
groups of the Society are units for the civic edu-
of the Society. This Society supplements the ac-
cation and activity of members, though not with-
tivities of German-American organizations in a
out social and cultural endeavor. It considers the
hitherto neglected field, and is not in conflict with
teaching of the German language essential to the
any existing organization. The Society was organ-
promotion of good will and friendly relations
ized in May, 1919, and operates in many States.
THE LANGUAGE MEMBERSHIP
with Germany.
Public discussion of intrinsic and internal affairs
and the resources of the Society by unauthorized
The Steuben Society uses the language of the Amer-
6-This Society hopes to bring together all Amer-
members is not permitted.
Constitution in all its deliberations; it is not a
ican
and
manv
of
its
members
ican citizens of Germanic origin for .re the purpose
of
foreign
language
group
due
safequarding promoting their political and
and
14-This Society is dedicated to enlightened participa-
tion in local, state and national affairs. It is not
trace their lineage back to the seventeenth century,
civic stature.
in any sense a political party, nor a group serving
to ancestors who fought in the Revolution, the War
with Mexico and the Civil War, and many of its most
7-This Society is not a secret Society, but is of a
the purposes of any political party, nor shall it
serve any individual's personal ambitions.
active members were in the armed forces in both
non-public character.
The policies of the Society on all issues are de-
World Wars, "and all military engagements since".
8-This Society employs a Ceremonial and Order of
veloped by open debate in Units and Councils
All American citizens wholly or in part of Germanic
Business.
and especially at the State and National Conven-
extraction and of good repute, who are in accord
tions. These policies on important issues are
with the principles outlined herein, are invited to
9-This Society's "Constitution and Statutes" are
clearly stated in the State and National Platforms
become members and will be welcomed in the
modeled after the general principles of repre-
and Programs, issued after each convention. These
Steuben Society of America.
sentative government. It provides for the oppor-
Platforms, the "Steuben News" and direct com-
Because of a recent amendment to the Constitution
tunity of the able members to advance. There is
munications convey our stand to the public, to
STEUBE
of our Society, we can now welcome our younger
no super-body of self-instituted and self-perpetua-
our government and to our elected representa-
citizens to join us at the age of 18 years.
ting governors.
tives.
8
9
10
Date Elected:
City:
Introdution Fee:
Recommended by: No.
Proposed by:
Nationality of Father:
Born at:
Home Address:
Date of Birth:
Occupation:
quently and purposefully, until they decided definite-
10-This Societ
Applicant's Name:
The Steuben Society is committed to the promotion
Fourteen Points About
ly to organize in order to arouse citizens of Germanic
of good will and lasting friendly relations with the
groups, know
origin to a greater sense of their civic, educational,
Germanic peoples of Europe based upon mutual re-
The Steuben Society of America
called "Cour
patriotic and political duties and rights. Thus in
spect for each other's sovereignty and right to manage
elected deleg
Its Policy and Activities
representativ
If father or mother are born in the United States, are they of Germanic extraction?
elected deleg
No.
man language in our public schools is one of the es-
men and Sec
naturalized citizen, give date, place and number of issue of naturalization (citizen) paper.
Any erroneous information given is sufficient reason for expulsion.
May 1919 the Steuben Society of America was born.
their own internal affairs. The teaching of the Ger-
sentials to this end.
1-This Society aims to loyally support the Constitu-
tion of the United States of America, advocates
matically del
the proper application of its provisions, and en-
posed of del
Duty, Tolerance, Charity and Justice are not only
"THE PURPOSE"
deavors to inculcate the principles underlying
State on the
cornerstones of the structure of the Steuben Society
government by a Federal Republic with limited,
elections hav
of America, but are fundamental to the existence of
The Society was created to be an organization in-
delegated powers.
displayed ar
State
the American Republic itself. Upon this foundation
dependent of politicial parties and remains so today.
11-This Society
It does not intend to dictate to its members how to
the Society is satisfied to have its edifice rest forever.
2-This Society is dedicated to maintaining the in-
United State
dependence and sovereignty of the United States
vote, but endeavors to instruct them in the field of
of good repu
of America and its freedom from all foreign in-
ic origin. Pe
Date
public service and the intelligent use of the ballot.
fluence.
or who are
are not elig
Country
The Steuben Society of America is a voluntary
"THE OBJECTIVE"
3-This Society engages in City, County, State and
are drawn a
membership organization formed to stimulate among
National civic affairs. The Unit attends to local
all American citizens an active interest in their Gov-
The Society's object is to draw into closer relation-
matters, the District Council to a larger political
11a-Germanic i
Unit No.
Unit
Zip No.
Are You of Voting Age?
ernment. It is National in scope and consists of Units
ship through historic and ethnic bonds of sympathy,
division, the State Council to State matters and
zens, who of
Tel.:
Americans who maintain their faith in the sturdy vir-
the National Council to National matters and
qualification
in many cities. The organization desires to unite men
tues of the race of Steuben, as manifested in the mak-
Foreign Affairs.
League". W
and women of Germanic origin who have common
ing of America from the earliest settlements on the
exist, a grou
interests, so that they may obtain a better under-
North American continent to the present day. This
4-This Society pledges itself to promote the election
may apply
Citizen?
standing of their civic duties, and to assist them in
to public office of men and women known to be
Society for
taking an active part in public affairs.
task it has set itself to perform as an American So-
reliable and worthy, who will strive to preserve
12-This Society
ciety to advance the causes of popular historical and
and strengthen our Constitution and sovereignty,
political education, a more just appraisal of historic
sideration, o
The members of the Steuben Society are American
and who recognize our Constitution as the su-
citizens of Germanic origin who wish to promote
and ethnic values, and to interpret and perpetuate
position, bu
preme law of the land.
civic betterment in the United States by doing their
American principles of liberty; to further promote
13-This Society
American solidarity and to exalt the American ideal
5-This Society uses the American language. The
pline. Self-se
share and taking their proper part as loyal citizens
groups of the Society are units for the civic edu-
of the Socie
in the political and social life of the country.
of government "of, by and for the people"!
cation and activity of members, though not with-
tivities of
o
out social and cultural endeavor. It considers the
hitherto neg
teaching of the German language essential to the
any existing
promotion of good will and friendly relations
ized in May
THE LANGUAGE - MEMBERSHIP
with Germany.
Public discu
OUR NATION - OUR IDEALS
and the reso
The Steuben Society uses the language of the Amer-
6-This Society hopes to bring together all Amer-
members is
The Steuben Society recognizes that is a
ican Constitution in all its deliberations; it is not a
ican citizens of Germanic origin for Purpose
of.immigran all parts of Europe, who
foreign language group many of its members
of safequarding andromoting their political and
Society
have built out of Nature's rich resources, often under
trace their lineage back to the seventeenth century,
tion in local,
civic stature.
to ancestors who fought in the Revolution, the War
in any sense
privation and hardship, a mighty Republic whose
with Mexico and the Civil War, and many of its most
7-This Society is not a secret Society, but is of a
the purposes
industrial and agricultural wealth stands unequaled
active members were in the armed forces in both
non-public character.
serve any ind
in the world today.
World Wars, "and all military engagements since".
The policies
8-This Society employs a Ceremonial and Order of
veloped by o
In acknowledging the contributions of all racial
All American citizens wholly or in part of Germanic
Business.
and especially
STEUBEN SOCIETY
extraction and of good repute, who are in accord
elements, the Steuben Society considers it a duty to
tions. These
with the principles outlined herein, are invited to
instill a patriotic fervor in every citizen. It will de-
9-This Society's "Constitution and Statutes" are
clearly stated
become members and will be welcomed in the
modeled after the general principles of repre-
OF AMERICA
nounce and forcefully oppose any and all attempts to
and Programs
Steuben Society of America.
sentative government. It provides for the oppor-
Platforms, the
discredit, malign or abuse any loyal element of the
Because of a recent amendment to the Constitution
tunity of the able members to advance. There is
munications
369 LEXINGTON AVENUE, NEW YORK, N. Y. 10017
American people, and will zealously guard the liber-
of our Society, we can now welcome our younger
no super-body of self-instituted and self-perpetua-
our government
ties for which our forefathers fought.
citizens to join us at the age of 18 years.
ting governors.
tives.
7
8
9
AIMS AND PURPOSES OF THE
constitutional republic and for freedom in preserving
The Steuben Society of America
STEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA
this nation. This struggle for American freedom con-
tinues today as the people of our Nation and those of
THE PATRON
The
FOREWORD
had mu
Loyally to support the Constitution of the United
the Free World are called on to face an alien and
manic
States of America by advocating the proper applica-
Voluntary membership organizations have eminent-
atheistic doctrine promulgated the world over by
General Frederick William von Steuben was born
ued for
tion of its provisions and inculcating the principles
ly contributed to the progress of these United States
Communist subservients.
at Magdeburg, Germany, on September 17, 1730. He
them a
came to America in 1777 to offer his services to the
underlying true democratic government;
of America. Each organization directing its efforts
While man can now walk the moon - during this
Congress of the United States struggling for its in-
broadly
toward certain worthwhile endeavors, in which it is
To quicken the spirit of sound Americanism and
satellite, atomic, and missile age, we live in the midst
dependence, ready to serve under George Washing-
ment o
interested, makes for an overall effort for the welfare
foster a patriotic American spirit among all citizens;
of alarms. With each new day, new anxieties seem to
ton, the commander-in-chief in any capacity in which
of the entire country. We recognize the work of all
becloud the future of our country; yet Americans
his experience would best serve its cause.
To aid in maintaining the independence and sover-
such organizations.
must not panic. We must retain our sense of direction
The conduct of General von Steuben, the friend
eignty of the United States of America and its free-
The American Way of Life is a blend of the cult-
and not become defeatists. Ideas and words of clear,
of George Washington and drill master and organizer.
dom from all foreign influence;
ural gifts of the peoples of all lands.
calm appraisal must rise from citizens, regardless of
of the revolutionary army whose services contributed
Thes
As American citizens of German blood, we take
party, above discordant voices and unsupported
much toward winning the war for American indepen-
descend
To establish co-operation among its members in
opinions.
dence, is a shining example of the aims and purposes
whethe
the exercise of their civic duties and to encourage
justifiable pride in the realization that all segments of
which the founders of the Steuben Society of Amer-
eminen
among them an active participation in every phase
American life have been enriched by the contribu-
To remain a free nation we must rededicate our-
ica wished its prospective members to know and
tions of men and women of our race in the arts, in the
selves to the principles heretofore established by those
learn to follow.
largest
of our national life;
to shun
sciences and in government.
who over the years gave us our manifest of patriotism.
Steuben had the advantage of military schooling,
the go
To promote the Welfare and enhance the happi-
Our continuing contributions can best be assured
The Steuben Society of America works for the accom-
and had given distinguished service in the Prussian
busines
ness of its members and their fellowmen;
and can only prosper in a climate of understanding
plishment of these goals. We urge all good citizens to
Army. His admiration for the struggling young
ambitio
participate in a rededication to the principles of
American nation and his love of freedom decided his
To perpetuate itself as a patriotic and fraternal
and tolerance under a political system based on equal-
ship of
ity, justice and freedom.
patriotism and the love of country in preserving our
course of action. History records that he was one of
voluntary membership organization and to provide
great Republic.
America's foremost citizens, of whom Americans of
The
for its government;
It is to this objective that the program of the
Germanic origin can be proud. George Washington
For over fifty years, alert, upright American citi-
ticipati
To guard our political liberty by maintaining an
Steuben Society of America is dedicated.
in a letter to Steuben, dated Annapolis, December
zens of Germanic descent throughout America have
23, 1783, said in part, "I wish to make use of this last
ship wa
honest equality of citizenship regardless of the birth,
This booklet is intended for those willing to share
moment in my public life to signify in the strongest
of past
united in the Steuben Society of America, a volun-
origin or religion of any citizen;
in a responsibility to your benefit to preserve and
teer, patriotic national organization, to maintain pro-
terms my entire approbation of your conduct and to
merged
perpetuate our precious freedoms and to conquer
express my sense of the obligation the public is under
the im
To maintain the traditions of our country.
grams rendering worthwhile services on a National,
to you for your faithful and meritorius service"; and
ment o
apathy. This folder tells something of the Steuben
State and Community level. The membership of this
"This is the last letter I shall ever write while I con-
and de
Society of America, and is intended to serve as an ap-
Society and its conduct is such as to command the
tinue in the service of my country".
forgotte
peal to join our ranks.
respect of all decent fellow citizens.
ic origi
General von Steuben became an American citizen
There is a great need for Americans to be well
ity who
As a conscientious citizen you should be aware that
and after freedom was won took an active part in the
versed in American history and what that history
always
SOCIETY
in order to secure and enjoy your rights and freedom
affairs of the young nation. He prepared for the de-
down.
SECURITY
OF
means in terms of rights and freedom and the per-
you cannot afford is neglect your duties toward your
fence of the harbor of New York, developed plans for
petuation of this Republic of the people.
country.
the United States Military Academy at West Point,
AMERICA
N. Y. and wrote the United States Army training
The first Continental Congress was formed to
As an individual, your efforts are necessarily lim-
manual. He died on November 28, 1794 and was laid
unite the Colonies and to create a Continental Army
ited. As a member of an organized group much more
to rest in a hero's grave on his estate at Remsen,
THE
which, in turn, helped to make possible the writing of
worthwhile work can be done.
Oneida County, N. Y.
There
the greatest documents of freedom known to man-
both H
FOUNDED
MAY
6161
We would welcome the opportunity to enlist you
It is of particular interest that his name was
kind, the Constitution of the United States and the
selected by the founders of the Society upon the sug-
figure,
as a member. For further information, why not con-
Bill of Rights.
humilia
tact us?
gestion of a United States Senator who was not of
The descendants of Americans of Germanic origin,
German ancestry, who recognized the need for such
through
together with the thousands of freedom loving
STEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA
an organization. Thus Frederick William von Steu-
the neo
ben became the patron of the Steuben Society of
fairs. T
people who have come to us in the intervening years,
369 Lexington Avenue
America.
the mir
have fought to retain the sovereignty of this great
New York, N. Y. 10017
in New
2
3
5
4
constitutional republic and for freedom in preserving
The Steuben Society of America
GERMANIC IMMIGRANTS
this nation. This struggle for American freedom con-
THE PATRON
The inspiring example set by General von Steuben
tinues today as the people of our Nation and those of
had much to do with the wave of immigrants of Ger-
the Free World are called on to face an alien and
manic origin which developed thereafter and contin-
have
eminent-
atheistic doctrine promulgated the world over by
General Frederick William von Steuben was born
ued for more than a century. They brought with
United
States
Communist subservients.
at Magdeburg, Germany, on September 17, 1730. He
came to America in 1777 to offer his services to the
them a strong, inherent trait of individualism which,
its
efforts
While man can now walk the moon - during this
Congress of the United States struggling for its in-
broadly applied, helped greatly in the rapid develop-
in
which
it
is
dependence, ready to serve under George Washing-
ment of the new American nation.
satellite, atomic, and missile age, we live in the midst
for
the
welfare
of alarms. With each new day, new anxieties seem to
ton, the commander-in-chief in any capacity in which
the
work
his experience would best serve its cause.
Date
of
all
becloud the future of our country; yet Americans
must not panic. We must retain our sense of direction
The conduct of General von Steuben, the friend
end
of
the
cult-
and not become defeatists. Ideas and words of clear,
of George Washington and drill master and organizer
"POLITICS FORBIDDEN"! A FALLACY!
calm appraisal must rise from citizens, regardless of
of the revolutionary army whose services contributed
These Germanic pioneers and their American-born
party, above discordant voices and unsupported
much toward winning the war for American indepen-
blood,
we
take
descendants, in their own selected business pursuits -
all
opinions.
dence, is a shining example of the aims and purposes
segments
of
which the founders of the Steuben Society of Amer-
whether agricultural, industrial or intellectual were
the
contribu-
To remain a free nation we must rededicate our-
ica wished its prospective members to know and
eminently successful. Although forming the second
the
arts,
in
selves to the principles heretofore established by those
learn to follow.
largest racial stock, these Americans had a disposition
the
Signature
to shun activity in purely political affairs, as long as
who over the years gave us our manifest of patriotism.
Steuben had the advantage of military schooling,
the government did not interfere with their own
Place.
best
be
assured
The Steuben Society of America works for the accom-
and had given distinguished service in the Prussian
business pursuits. They did not develop any special
To the STEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA
"I hereby apply for membership in your Society, and if accepted,
will give my best efforts to further its aims and purposes."
Have you ever been in any other Unit?
Are you a member of any political Club, Society, League or Organization?
understanding
plishment of these goals We urge all good citizens to
Army. His admiration for the struggling young
ambition towards organizing their group for leader-
based
participate in a rededication to the principles of
American nation and his love of freedom decided his
on
equal-
ship of a purely political character.
If so, state name, location and particulars
patriotism and the love of country in preserving our
course of action. History records that he was one of
great Republic.
America's foremost citizens, of whom Americans of
The fallacy of this tendency to shun political par-
APPLICATION
If so, state full particulars
program
of
the
Germanic origin can be proud. George Washington
ticipation, and the resulting lack of political leader-
For over fifty years, alert, upright American citi-
in a letter to Steuben, dated Annapolis, December
23, 1783, said in part, "I wish to make use of this last
ship was painfully brought home in the experiences
zens of Germanic descent throughout America have
willing
to
share
moment in my public life to signify in the strongest
of past periods when truth and decency were sub-
united in the Steuben Society of America, a volun-
preserve
and
terms my entire approbation of your conduct and to
merged in the passions of hatred and vengeance, and
teer, patriotic national organization, to maintain pro-
express my sense of the obligation the public is under
the important contributions this second largest ele-
to
conquer
grams rendering worthwhile services on a National,
to you for your faithful and meritorius service"; and
ment of its citizenry had made towards the creation
of
the
Steuben
State and Community level. The membership of this
"This is the last letter I shall ever write while I con-
and development of our American nation were often
serve
as
an
ap-
Society and its conduct is such as to command the
tinue in the service of my country".
forgotten. There were among the citizens of German-
respect of all decent fellow citizens.
ic origin men and women of true courage and abil-
General von Steuben became an American citizen
to
be
well
ity who pleaded for reason and justice, but they were
As a conscientious citizen you should be aware that
and after freedom was won took an active part in the
that
history
always in the minority and were forcibly shouted
in orue
to secure and enjoy your rights and freedom
affairs of the young nation. He prepared for the de-
down.
and
the
per-
your
duties
toward
you
cannot
affort
your
fence of the harbor of New York. developed plans for
negister
the United States Military Academy at West Point,
country.
N. Y. and wrote the United States Army training
formed
to
As an individual, your efforts are necessarily lim-
manual. He died on November 28, 1794 and was laid
"THE CAUSE"
I RECOMMEND
ntinental
Army
ited. As a member of an organized group much more
to rest in a hero's grave on his estate at Remsen,
the
writing
of
worthwhile work can be done.
Oneida County, N. Y.
There was a lack of sufficient representation in
as a member for the Steuben Society:
to
both Houses of Congress and there was no national
man-
We would welcome the opportunity to enlist you
It is of particular interest that his name was
States
and
the
figure, no great leader, to advocate their cause. This
NAME
as a member. For further information, why not con-
selected by the founders of the Society upon the sug-
humiliating position caused the Germanic element
tact us?
gestion of a United States Senator who was not of
German ancestry, who recognized the need for such
throughout the land to feel more keenly than ever
ADDRESS
PHONE
ermanic
origin,
reedom
STEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA
an organization. Thus Frederick William von Steu-
the necessity for greater participation in public af-
loving
ben became the patron of the Steuben Society of
fairs. The realization of this need was the thought in
tervening
years,
369 Lexington Avenue
America.
the minds of a small group of men, who in 1919 met
of
this
great
in New York, first socially and casually, then fre-
REMARKS
New York, N. Y. 10017
5
6
4
SIGNED
Distribution: 20 copies mailed to
Steuben Sr 5/20/71 pm
moffice Copy
AN ADDRESS BY REP. GERALD R. FORD, R-MICH.
REPUBLICAN LEADER, U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
BEFORE THE STEUBEN SOCIETY
AT THE AMERICANA HOTEL, NEW YORK, NEW YORK
7 p.m. SATURDAY, MAY 22, 1971
FOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY
Good evening. I am very happy to be here. It is always a pleasure to be
among citizens who have a deep devotion to duty and a keen awareness of their
responsibilities as Americans.
I share with you your pride in the accomplishments of the Revolutionary War
general, Frederick William von Steuben. Certainly General von Steuben occupies a
place of great honor in the history of America. It might well be said that the
American colonists would never have won their freedom without his valiant services.
In looking over the Steuben Society's objectives and aims, I was most
impressed by your 14 points and notably the fact that this Society is "dedicated
to enlightened participation in local, state and national affairs."
My remarks tonight may not be entertaining. I have never been very good
at comedy routines. But my comments may be enlightening.
All of us in America need all of the enlightenment that may be available,
for we live in perilous times.
We live in an age when freedom has come heavily under attack.
I speak of the continuing danger of Communist expansionism.
I speak of an atmosphere which is becoming more and more pervasive among
Americans, an atmosphere which is giving rise to broadened and heightened attacks
on the free enterprise system and on the institution of free democratic government
itself.
I speak of the Soviet drive for superiority in nuclear power, in technology
and in naval forces.
I speak of the fact that while the Soviet Union continues to increase its
defense outlays, we have been drastically reducing ours in constant dollars.
While the Soviet Union makes great efforts to build up its Navy, we allow
ours to ride at anchor. While the Soviet Union sends increasing numbers of ships
into the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean, leading members of the
United States Senate cast about for ways to cut our defense budget.
(more)
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
-2-
In the area of nuclear power, the Soviets in the last three years have
achieved parity with us. The Russians now are developing super warheads, much
larger than any in our arsenal. At the same time the Russians have been increasing
the number and accuracy of their intercontinental ballistic missiles.
The threat of nuclear war hangs over the world like a time bomb. Let us
hope the process of defusing that bomb began with the announcement last Thursday
in Washington and Moscow that the United States and the Soviet Union had agreed
to negotiate limitations on both offensive and defensive nuclear weapons
simultaneously.
This agreement is clearly one of the most significant breakthroughs for
peace in the history of the modern world--a breakthrough in our efforts to place
curbs on the development of nuclear weapons.
While intensive negotiations lie ahead and concrete agreements may yet elude
us, we must recognize this initial agreement as a step toward preserving the peace
of the world and a step toward relief from the crushing cost burden of the arms
race.
The U.S.-Russian agreement to pursue negotiations involving both offensive
and defensive nuclear weapons holds a vast potential for benefit to mankind. It
indicates a more enlightened attitude on the part of the Russians. It prompts
me to look for the day when we can come to a substantive arms control agreement. I
feel there is genuine cause for optimism.
While we continue to negotiate, we must always keep in mind that peace comes
to the strong. I think the recently-announced .S.-Soviet agreement points up
the fact that President Nixon held the ABM in his hand as a trump card. It under-
scores the wisdom of his refusal to throw that card away in the face of attacks
by the Senate doves.
We must not, of course, allow the exhileration of the moment to run away
with reason.
Many obstacles lie in the path of any further agreements with the Soviet
Union, and not the least of these has been the Russian attempt to bring about the
dismantling of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
It is a hopeful note that the Russians now are indicating a willingness to
discuss a mutual reduction of forces in Europe. They had been insisting on a U.S.
withdrawal without a corresponding Soviet withdrawal from Eastern Europe.
I am opposed to a unilateral reduction of U.S. forces in Europe, now or at
(more)
-3-
any time in the future. Our objective should be a mutual reduction, and we must
expand and intensify our negotiations to that end.
Unilateral reductions would weaken the possibility of getting the Soviet
Union to withdraw some of its forces from Eastern Europe.
I welcome Leonid Brezhnev's initiative in this regard. This was a response
to a NATO invitation to discuss mutual troop withdrawals. It will be on the agenda
of the NATO meeting in June.
There is, of course, continuing talk of shifting a greater portion of the
NATO expense burden to our NATO allies.
In view of our shockingly poor balance of payments situation, a greater
contribution on the part of our NATO allies is very much to be desired.
Of the 300,000 U.S. troops in Europe, 210,000 are stationed in Germany.
Maintaining this level of troops in Germany created a balance-of-payments outflow
of $1 billion each year in 1969 and 1970.
Fortunately, the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany concluded
an agreement designed to offset most of this balance-of-payments outflow during the
period July 1, 1969 through June 30, 1971. We now must negotiate a new offset
agreement to take effect when the present agreement expires.
Returning to the matter of a unilateral reduction of U.S. forces in Europe,
I believe this is a case of giving something away and getting nothing in return.
This is what is wrong with German Chancellor Willi Brandt's Eastern policy.
Brandt's Eastern policy is like a. supermarket hoping to come out ahead on
some other items by offering its customers so-called "loss leaders.' The danger,
of course, is that the customer will avail himself of the loss leader without buying
anything else.
And that is whar has happened in connection with Chancellor Brandt's Eastern
policy. The Soviet Union has signed a non-aggression pact with the Federal
Republic but has refused to cooperate on the questions of free and unhindered civil
access to Berlin, improvement of travel and communications for Berliners within and
around Berlin, and the ending of discrimination against Berlin by the Soviet Union
and some of its allies.
The German Federal Republic has kept its skirts clean by refusing to ratify
the treaties with the Soviet Union and Poland until such time as the Berlin questions
are satisfactorily resolved.
As for East Germany, that Communist state has rejected Brandt's proposal of
(more)
Ii
two states in a single German nation and offers of closer and more natural
inter-German contacts.
The Federal Republic has remained a loyal member of NATO throughout all of
Brandt's overtures to his Eastern neighbors, and our government has been in close
consultation with the government of the Federal Republic.
We have emphasized the four-power rights concerning Berlin where they needed
to be emphasized. The round of exchanges on Berlin which began in March 1970 with
the Soviet Union are continuing.
The Nixon Administration, working with our NATO allies, seeks a European
detente. But we are realistic about it. Our thinking is not befogged with
euphoric misconceptions concerning Soviet aims.
Any permanent easing of tension in Europe must include progress in solving
the problem of a divided Germany.
The German national question is one for the German people to decide. But
there is no doubt in my mind that this question ultimately will be resolved only
because the Federal Republic speaks from a position of strength--its secure position
as a member of a strong NATO.
As President Nixon has said, "Reducing the military confrontation in Europe
is in the common interest of East and West. Our mutual objective should be to
create a more stable military balance at lower levels and lower costs."
But while we seek to reduce the military confrontation, we must maintain the
relative strength of NATO and continue America's strong role in NATO.
Americans and Europeans need constantly to be reminded of the Soviet Union's
westward expansion at the close of World War II.
It was not until the Russians had brought Poland, East Germany, Hungary,
Bulgaria, Rumania and Czechoslovakia into the Communist camp that the free nations
of Europe joined with the United States and Canada to form the NATO shield against
further encroachments on the Atlantic world.
The 15-member North Atlantic Treaty Organization developed into an alliance
that rimmed Russia from Norway on the north to Turkey on the south. Thus did NATO
stop the Soviets' territorial aggrandizement.
NATO's principal value to world peace lies in its military strength. We must
keep NATO strong. We must not allow it to lapse into disrepair. Our contribution
of U.S. forces to NATO is the basis of our allies' confidence in us. We cannot
allow that confidence to waver.
(more)
5-
What should be the basis of NATO strategy in seeking to deter aggression?
We must have forces able to defend against the enemy without immediate resort
to nuclear war. This would give us full flexibility in responding to any outbreak
of hostilities. We must be capable of a strong and credible deployment of modern
NATO conventional forces. America's guarantee of nuclear defense is, of course,
crucial. It should not, however, be the sole basis of Allied deterrence.
And so we must remain vigilant and we must remain strong--while at the same
time we seek to weave the fabric of an enduring peace.
Every now and again I think of what I consider to be one of the greatest
speeches ever given by an American President.
I have in mind President Eisenhower's Farewell Radio and Television Address
to the American People, delivered Jan. 17, 1961.
That speech is most famous because of Ike's warning about the dangers of
undue influence on the part of the military-industrial complex. But Ike that night
said many other things far more important.
At one point, he said: "Until the latest of our world conflicts, the United
States had no armament industry. American makers of plowshares could, with time
and as required, make swords as well. But now we can no longer risk emergency
improvisation of national defense; we have been compelled to create a permanent
armaments industry of vast proportions."
A little earlier in his address, Ike declared: "A vital element in keeping
the peace is our military establishment. Our arms must be mighty, ready for instant
action, so that no potential aggressor may be tempted to risk his own destruction."
This is my message to you tonight--that we avoid fear and hate but that we
know the enemy and be ever ready to meet him if and when that dire event is thrust
upon us. It is only thus that we can fill the role of peacemakers in the kind of
world in which we live.
I congratulate the Steuben Society because I know you are dedicated to those
principles which have made America great.
Let us all embrace those principles and move forward together in pursuit of
peace and justice for peoples throughout the world.
###
AN ADDRESS BY REP. GERALD R. FORD, R-MICH.
REPUBLICAN LEADER, U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
BEFORE THE STEUBEN SOCIETY
AT THE AMERICANA HOTEL, NEW YORK, NEW YORK
7 p.m. SATURDAY, MAY 22, 1971
FOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY
Good evening. I am very happy to be here. It is always a pleasure to be
among citizens who have a deep devotion to duty and a keen awareness of their
responsibilities as Americans.
I share with you your pride in the accomplishments of the Revolutionary War
general, Frederick William von Steuben. Certainly General von Steuben occupies a
place of great honor in the history of America. It might well be said that the
American colonists would never have won their freedom without his valiant services.
In looking over the Steuben Society's objectives and aims, I was most
impressed by your 14 points and notably the fact that this Society is "dedicated
to enlightened participation in local, state and national affairs."
My remarks tonight may not be entertaining. I have never been very good
at comedy routines. But my comments may be enlightening.
All of us in America need all of the enlightenment that may be available,
for we live in perilous times.
We live in an age when freedom has come heavily under attack.
I speak of the continuing danger of Communist expansionism.
I speak of an atmosphere which is becoming more and more pervasive among
Americans, an atmosphere which is giving rise to broadened and heightened attacks
on the free enterprise system and on the institution of free democratic government
itself.
I speak of the Soviet drive for superiority in nuclear power, in technology
and in naval forces.
I speak of the fact that while the Soviet Union continues to increase its
defense outlays, we have been drastically reducing ours in constant dollars.
While the Soviet Union makes great efforts to build up its Navy, we allow
ours to ride at anchor. While the Soviet Union sends increasing numbers of ships
into the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean, leading members of the
United States Senate cast about for ways to cut our defense budget.
(more)
--2-
In the area of nuclear power, the Soviets in the last three years have
achieved parity with us. The Russians now are developing super warheads, much
larger than any in our arsenal. At the same time the Russians have been increasing
the number and accuracy of their intercontinental ballistic missiles.
The threat of nuclear war hangs over the world like a time bomb. Let us
hope the process of defusing that bomb began with the announcement last Thursday
in Washington and Moscow that the United States and the Soviet Union had agreed
to negotiate limitations on both offensive and defensive nuclear weapons
simultaneously.
This agreement is clearly one of the most significant breakthroughs for
peace in the history of the modern world--a breakthrough in our efforts to place
curbs on the development of nuclear weapons.
While intensive negotiations lie ahead and concrete agreements may yet elude
us, we must recognize this initial agreement as a step toward preserving the peace
of the world and a step toward relief from the crushing cost burden of the arms
race.
The U.S.-Russian agreement to pursue negotiations involving both offensive
and defensive nuclear weapons holds a vast potential for benefit to mankind. It
indicates a more enlightened attitude on the part of the Russians. It prompts
me to look for the day when we can come to a substantive arms control agreement. I
feel there is genuine cause for optimism.
While we continue to negotiate, we must always keep in mind that peace comes
to the strong. I think the recently-announced S.-Soviet agreement points up
the fact that President Nixon held the ABM in his hand as a trump card. It under-
scores the wisdom of his refusal to throw that card away in the face of attacks
by the Senate doves.
We must not, of course, allow the exhileration of the moment to run away
with reason.
Many obstacles lie in the path of any further agreements with the Soviet
Union, and not the least of these has been the Russian attempt to bring about the
dismantling of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
It is a hopeful note that the Russians now are indicating a willingness to
discuss a mutual reduction of forces in Europe. They had been insisting on a U.S.
withdrawal without a corresponding Soviet withdrawal from Eastern Europe.
I am opposed to a unilateral reduction of U.S. forces in Europe, now or at
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-3-
any time in the future. Our objective should be a mutual reduction, and we must
expand and intensify our negotiations to that end.
Unilateral reductions would weaken the possibility of getting the Soviet
Union to withdraw some of its forces from Eastern Europe.
I welcome Leonid Brezhnev's initiative in this regard. This was a response
to a NATO invitation to discuss mutual troop withdrawals. It will be on the agenda
of the NATO meeting in June.
There is, of course, continuing talk of shifting a greater portion of the
NATO expense burden to our NATO allies.
In view of our shockingly poor balance of payments situation, a greater
contribution on the part of our NATO allies is very much to be desired.
Of the 300,000 U.S. troops in Europe, 210,000 are stationed in Germany.
Maintaining this level of troops in Germany created a balance-of-payments outflow
of $1 billion each year in 1969 and 1970.
Fortunately, the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany concluded
an agreement designed to offset most of this balance-of-payments outflow during the
period July 1, 1969 through June 30, 1971. We now must negotiate a new offset
agreement to take effect when the present agreement expires.
Returning to the matter of a unilateral reduction of U.S. forces in Europe,
I believe this is a case of giving something away and getting nothing in return.
This is what is wrong with German Chancellor Willi Brandt's Eastern policy.
Brandt's Eastern policy is like a supermarket hoping to come out ahead on
some other items by offering its customers so-called "loss leaders.' The danger,
of course, is that the customer will avail himself of the loss leader without buying
anything else.
And that is whar has happened in connection with Chancellor Brandt's Eastern
policy. The Soviet Union has signed a non-aggression pact with the Federal
Republic but has refused to cooperate on the questions of free and unhindered civil
access to Berlin, improvement of travel and communications for Berliners within and
around Berlin, and the ending of discrimination against Berlin by the Soviet Union
and some of its allies.
The German Federal Republic has kept its skirts clean by refusing to ratify
the treaties with the Soviet Union and Poland until such time as the Berlin questions
are satisfactorily resolved.
As for East Germany, that Communist state has rejected Brandt's proposal of
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4
two states in a single German nation and offers of closer and more natural
inter-German contacts.
The Federal Republic has remained a loyal member of NATO throughout all of
Brandt's overtures to his Eastern neighbors, and our government has been in close
consultation with the government of the Federal Republic.
We have emphasized the four-power rights concerning Berlin where they needed
to be emphasized. The round of exchanges on Berlin which began in March 1970 with
the Soviet Union are continuing.
The Nixon Administration, working with our NATO allies, seeks a European
detente. But we are realistic about it. Our thinking is not befogged with
euphoric misconceptions concerning Soviet aims.
Any permanent easing of tension in Europe must include progress in solving
the problem of a divided Germany.
The German national question is one for the German people to decide. But
there is no doubt in my mind that this question ultimately will be resolved only
because the Federal Republic speaks from a position of strength--its secure position
as a member of a strong NATO.
As President Nixon has said, "Reducing the military confrontation in Europe
is in the common interest of East and West. Our mutual objective should be to
create a more stable military balance at lower levels and lower costs."
But while we seek to reduce the military confrontation, we must maintain the
relative strength of NATO and continue America's strong role in NATO.
Americans and Europeans need constantly to be reminded of the Soviet Union's
westward expansion at the close of World War II.
It was not until the Russians had brought Poland, East Germany, Hungary,
Bulgaria, Rumania and Czechoslovakia into the Communist camp that the free nations
of Europe joined with the United States and Canada to form the NATO shield against
further encroachments on the Atlantic world.
The 15-member North Atlantic Treaty Organization developed into an alliance
that rimmed Russia from Norway on the north to Turkey on the south. Thus did NATO
stop the Soviets' territorial aggrandizement.
NATO's principal value to world peace lies in its military strength. We must
keep NATO strong. We must not allow it to lapse into disrepair. Our contribution
of U.S. forces to NATO is the basis of our allies' confidence in us. We cannot
allow that confidence to waver.
(more)
-5-
What should be the basis of NATO strategy in seeking to deter aggression?
We must have forces able to defend against the enemy without immediate resort
to nuclear war. This would give us full flexibility in responding to any outbreak
of hostilities. We must be capable of a strong and credible deployment of modern
NATO conventional forces. America's guarantee of nuclear defense is, of course,
crucial. It should not, however, be the sole basis of Allied deterrence.
And so we must remain vigilant and we must remain strong-while at the same
time we seek to weave the fabric of an enduring peace.
Every now and again I think of what I consider to be one of the greatest
speeches ever given by an American President.
I have in mind President Eisenhower's Farewell Radio and Television Address
to the American People, delivered Jan. 17, 1961.
That speech is most famous because of Ike's warning about the dangers of
undue influence on the part of the military-industrial complex. But Ike that night
said many other things far more important.
At one point, he said: "Until the latest of our world conflicts, the United
States had no armament industry. American makers of plowshares could, with time
and as required, make swords as well. But now we can no longer risk emergency
improvisation of national defense; we have been compelled to create a permanent
armaments industry of vast proportions.'
A little earlier in his address, Ike declared: "A vital element in keeping
the peace is our military establishment. Our arms must be mighty, ready for instant
action, so that no potential aggressor may be tempted to risk his own destruction."
This is my message to you tonight--that we avoid fear and hate but that we
know the enemy and be ever ready to meet him if and when that dire event is thrust
upon us. It is only thus that we can fill the role of peacemakers in the kind of
world in which we live.
I congratulate the Steuben Society because I know you are dedicated to those
principles which have made America great.
Let us all embrace those principles and move forward together in pursuit of
peace and justice for peoples throughout the world.
###
AIMS AND PURPOSES OF THE
constitutional republic and for freedom i
STEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA
this nation. This struggle for American I
FOREWORD
tinues today as the people of our Nation
Loyally to support the Constitution of the United
the Free World are called on to face a
States of America by advocating the proper applica-
Voluntary membership organizations have eminent-
atheistic doctrine promulgated the WOI
tion of its provisions and inculcating the principles
ly contributed to the progress of these United States
Communist subservients.
underlying true democratic government;
of America. Each organization directing its efforts
While man can now walk the moon -
toward certain worthwhile endeavors, in which it is
To quicken the spirit of sound Americanism and
satellite, atomic, and missile age, we live i
interested, makes for an overall effort for the welfare
foster a patriotic American spirit among all citizens;
of alarms. With each new day, new anxiet
of the entire country. We recognize the work of all
becloud the future of our country; yet
To aid in maintaining the independence and sover-
such organizations.
must not panic. We must retain our sense
eignty of the United States of America and its free-
The American Way of Life is a blend of the cult-
and not become defeatists. Ideas and won
dom from all foreign influence;
ural gifts of the peoples of all lands.
calm appraisal must rise from citizens, re
To establish co-operation among its members in
As American citizens of German blood, we take
party, above discordant voices and un
the exercise of their civic duties and to encourage
justifiable pride in the realization that all segments of
opinions.
among them an active participation in every phase
American life have been enriched by the contribu-
To remain a free nation we must rede
of our national life;
tions of men and women of our race in the arts, in the
selves to the principles heretofore establishe
sciences and in government.
who over the years gave us our manifest of 1
To promote the Welfare and enhance the happi-
Our continuing contributions can best be assured
The Steuben Society of America works for
ness of its members and their fellowmen;
and can only prosper in a climate of understanding
plishment of these goals We urge all good
and tolerance under a political system based on equal-
participate in a rededication to the prir
To perpetuate itself as a patriotic and fraternal
ity, justice and freedom.
patriotism and the love of country in prese
voluntary membership organization and to provide
for its government;
great Republic.
It is to this objective that the program of the
To guard our political liberty by maintaining an
Steuben Society of America is dedicated.
For over fifty years, alert, upright Amer
zens of Germanic descent throughout Amer
honest equality of citizenship regardless of the birth,
This booklet is intended for those willing to share
united in the Steuben Society of America,
origin or religion of any citizen;
in a responsibility to your benefit to preserve and
teer, patriotic national organization, to main
perpetuate our precious freedoms and to conquer
To maintain the traditions of our country.
grams rendering worthwhile services on a T
apathy. This folder tells something of the Steuben
State and Community level. The membershi;
Society of America, and is intended to serve as an ap-
Society and its conduct is such as to comm
peal to join our ranks.
respect of all decent fellow citizens.
There is a great need for Americans to be well
As a conscientious citizen you should be aw
)CIF
versed in American history and what that history
to secure and enjoy your rights and I
O,
means in terms of rights and freedom
in order
vour
duties
towa
and the per-
you
cannot
aftor
STEU
AMER
petuation of this Republic of the people.
country.
The first Continental Congress was formed to
THE
unite the Colonies and to create a Continental Army
As an individual, your efforts are necessarily li
which, in turn, helped to make possible the writing of
ited. As a member of an organized group much mc
A
worthwhile work can be done.
the greatest documents of freedom known to man-
:VDED
MAY
GIGH
kind, the Constitution of the United States and the
We would welcome the opportunity to enlist y
Bill of Rights.
as a member. For further information, why not CO
tact us?
The descendants of Americans of Germanic origin,
together with the thousands of freedom loving
STEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA
people who have come to us in the intervening
Document source description
This file contains material relating to Willy Brandt.
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"ocrText": "The original documents are located in Box D31, folder \"Steuben Society, New York, NY,\nMay 22, 1971\" of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the\nGerald R. Ford Presidential Library.\nCopyright Notice\nThe copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of\nphotocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Council donated to the United\nStates of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.\nWorks prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public\ndomain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to\nremain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid\ncopyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.\nWe invote you To participate perfecting\nIn Inthe past we have had, Speahins the Ruh\nhome you accept\nSTEUBEN SOCIETY, 7 P.M. SATURDAY, MAY 22,\nDAY\nNEW YORK\n1971, AT THE AMERICANA Ballocke HOTEL, NEW YORK,\nInc\nAmd/ord\nGOOD EVENING. I AM VERY HAPPY\nTO BE HERE. IT IS ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO\nBE AMONG CITIZENS WHO HAVE A DEEP DEVOTION\nTO DUTY AND A KEEN AWARENESS OF THEIR\nRESPONSIBILITIES AS AMERICANS.\nI SHARE WITH YOU YOUR PRIDE IN\nTHE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE REVOLUTIONARY\nWAR GENERAL, FREDERICK WILLIAN VON STEUBEN.\nCERTAINLY GENERAL VON STEUBEN OCCUPIES A\nPLACE OF GREAT HONOR IN THE HISTORY OF\nAMERICA. IT MIGHT WELL BE SAID THAT THE\nAMERICAN COLONISTS WOULD NEVER HAVE WON\nTHEIR FREEDOM WITHOUT HIS VALIANT SERVICES.\nFORD & LIBRARY GERALD\nDigitized from Box D31 of The Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library\n-2-\nIN LOOKING OVER THE STEUBEN\nSOCIETY'S OBJECTIVES AND AIMS, I WAS MOST\nIMPRESSED BY YOUR 14 POINTS AND NOTABLY\nTHE FACT THAT THIS SOCIETY IS \"DEDICATED\nTO ENLIGHTENED PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL\n:\nnaturalty\nSTATE AND NATIONAL AFFAIRS.\"\nMY REMARKS TONIGHT\nENTERTAINING. I HAVE NEVER BEEN VERY GOOD\nAT COMEDY ROUTINES. BUT MY COMMENTS MAY\nBE ENLIGHTENING.\nALL OF US IN AMERICA NEED ALL OF\nTHE ENLIGHTENMENT THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE,\nFOR WE LIVE IN PERILOUS TIMES.\nagain\nWE LIVE IN AN AGE WHEN FREEDOM\nHAS COME HEAVILY UNDER ATTACK.\nI SPEAK OF THE CONTINUING DANGER\nOF COMMUNIST EXPANSIONISM.\nI SPEAK OF AN ATMOSPHERE WHICH IS\nBECOMING MORE AND MORE PERVASIVE AMONG\nLIBRARY\n-3-\nAMERICANS, AN ATMOSPHERE WHICH IS GIVING\nRISE TO BROADENED AND HEIGHTENED ATTACKS\nON THE FREE ENTERPRISE SYSTEM AND ON THE\nINSTITUTION OF FREE DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT\nITSELF. Washing , D.C.\nI SPEAK OF THE SOVIET DRIVE FOR\nSUPERIORITY IN NUCLEAR POWER, IN\nTECHNOLOGY AND IN NAVAL FORCES.\nI SPEAK OF THE FACT THAT WHILE\nTHE SOVIET UNION CONTINUES TO INCREASE ITS\nDEFENSE OUTLAYS, WE HAVE BEEN DRASTICALLY\nREDUCING OURS IN CONSTANT DOLLARS.\nWHILE THE SOVIET UNION MAKES\nGREAT EFFORTS TO BUILD UP ITS NAVY, WE\nALLOW OURS TO RIDE AT ANCHOR. WHILE THE\nSOVIET UNION SENDS INCREASING NUMBERS OF\nSHIPS INTO THE MEDITERRANEAN, THE\nCARIBBEAN AND THE INDIAN OCEAN, LEADING\nMEMBERS OF THE UNITED STATES SENATE CAST\nFORD is LIBRARY OF\n-4-\nABOUT FOR WAYS TO CUT OUR DEFENSE BUDGET.\nIN THE AREA OF NUCLEAR POWER,\nTHE SOVIETS IN THE LAST THREE YEARS HAVE\nACHIEVED PARITY WITH US. THE RUSSIANS NOW\nARE DEVELOPING SUPER WARHEADS, MUCH LARGER\nTHAN ANY IN OUR ARSENAL. AT THE SAME TIME\nTHE RUSSIANS HAVE BEEN INCREASING THE\nNUMBER AND ACCURACY OF THEIR\nINTERCONTINENTAL BALLISTIC MISSILES.\nTHE THREAT OF NUCLEAR WAR HANGS\nOVER THE WORLD LIKE A TIME BOMB. LET US HOPE\nTHE PROCESS OF DEFUSING THAT BOMB BEGAN WITH\nTHE ANNOUNCEMENT LAST THURSDAY IN\nWASHINGTON AND MOSCOW THAT THE UNITED\nSTATES AND THE SOVIET UNION HAD AGREED TO\nNEGOTIATE LIMITATIONS ON BOTH OFFENSIVE\nAND DEFENSIVE NUCLEAR WEAPONS\nSIMULTANEOUSLY.\nGLEATO FORD LIBRARY\nTHIS AGREEMENT IS CLEARLY ONE OF\n-5-\nTHE MOST SIGNIFICANT BREAKTHROUGHS FOR\nPEACE IN THE HISTORY OF THE MODERN WORLD --\nA BREAKTHROUGH IN OUR EFFORTS TO PLACE\nCURBS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF NUCLEAR\nWEAPONS.\nWHILE INTENSIVE NEGOTIATIONS LIE\nAHEAD AND CONCRETE AGREEMENTS MAY YET\nELUDE US WE MUST RECOGNIZE THIS INITIAL\nAGREEMENT AS A STEP TOWARD PRESERVING THE\nPEACE OF THE WORLD AND A STEP TOWARD RELIEF\nFROM THE CRUSHING COST BURDEN OF THE ARMS\nRACE\nTHE U.S.-RUSSIAN AGREEMENT TO\nafformatidy\nPURSUE NEGOTIATIONS INVOLVING BOTH\nOFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE NUCLEAR WEAPONS\nHOLDS A VAST POTENTIAL FOR BENEFIT TO\nMANKIND. IT INDICATES A MORE ENLIGHTENED\nATTITUDE ON THE PART OF THE RUSSIANS. IT\nFORD\nPROMPTS ME TO LOOK FOR THE DAY WHEN WE BERALE CAN\nBRARY\n-6-\nCOME TO A SUBSTANTIVE ARMS CONTROL\nAGREEMENT. I FEEL THERE IS GENUINE CAUSE\nFOR OPTIMISM.\nWHILE WE CONTINUE TO NEGOTIATE,\nWE MUST ALWAYS KEEP IN MIND THAT PEACE\nCOMES TO THE STRONG.\nMTHANK\nTHE\nRECENTLY-ANNOUNCED U.S.-SOVIET AGREEMENT\nPOINTS UP THE FACT THAT PRESIDENT NIXON\n3\nHELD THE ABM IN HIS HAND AS A TRUMP CARD.\nse\nIT UNDERSCORES THE WISDOM OF HIS REFUSAL\nit\n\"y\"\nTO THROW THAT CARD AWAY IN THE FACE OF\nATTACKS BY THE SENATE DOVES.\nWE MUST NOT, OF COURSE, ALLOW\nTHE EXHILERATION OF THE MOMENT TO RUN\nAWAY WITH REASON. logic.\nMANY OBSTACLES LIE IN THE PATH OF\nANY FURTHER AGREEMENTS WITH THE SOVIET\nUNION, AND NOT THE LEAST OF THESE HAS BEEN\nTHE RUSSIAN ATTEMPT TO BRING ABOUT THE\n-7-\nDISMANTLING OF THE NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY\nORGANIZATION.\nIT IS A HOPEFUL NOTE THAT THE\nRUSSIANS NOW ARE INDICATING A WILLINGNESS\nTO DISCUSS A MUTUAL REDUCTION OF FORCES\nIN EUROPE. THEY HAD BEEN INSISTING ON\nA U.S. WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT A CORRESPONDING\nSOVIET WITHDRAWAL FROM EASTERN EUROPE.\nI AM OPPOSED TO A UNILATERAL\nREDUCTION OF U.S. FORCES IN EUROPE NOW\nOR AT ANY TIME IN THE FUTURE. OUR\nOBJECTIVE SHOULD BE A MUTUAL REDUCTION\nAND WE MUST EXPAND AND INTENSIFY OUR\nNEGOTIATIONS TO THAT END.\nUNILATERAL REDUCTION WOULD\nWEAKEN THE POSSIBILITY OF GETTING THE\nSOVIET UNION TO WITHDRAW SOME OF ITS FORCES\nFROM EASTERN EUROPE.\nGERALD FORD LIBRARY\n-8-\nI WELCOME LEONID BREZHNEV\n1\nINITIATIVE IN THIS REGARD. THIS WAS DA\nRESPONSE TO A NATO INVITATION TO DUSCUSS\nMUTUAL TROOP WITHDRAWALS. IT WILL BE ON\nTHE AGENDA OF THE NATO MEETING IN JUNE.\nTHERE is, OF COURSE, CONTINUING\nTALK OF SHIFTING A GREATER PORTION OF THE\nNATO EXPENSE BURDEN TO OUR NATO ALLIES.\nIN VIEW OF OUR SHOCKINGLY POOR\nBALANCE OF PAYMENTS SITUATION, A GREATER\nCONTRIBUTION ON THE PART OF OUR NATO\nALLIES IS VERY MUCH TO BE DESIRED.\nOF THE 300,000 U.S. TROOPS IN\nEUROPE, 210,000 ARE STATIONED IN GERMANY.\nMAINTAINING THIS LEVEL OF TROOPS IN\nGERMANY CREATED A BALANCE-OF-PAYMENTS\nOUTFLOW OF $1 BILLION EACH YEAR IN 1969\nAND 1970.\nFORD LIBRARY\n-9-\nFORTUNATELY, THE UNITED STATES\nAND THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY\nCONCLUDED AN AGREEMENT DESIGNED TO OFFSET\nMOST OF THIS BALANCE-OF-PAYMENTS OUTFLOW\nDURING THE PERIOD JULY 1, 1969 THROUGH\nJUNE 30, 1971. WE NOW MUST NEGOTIATE A\nNEW OFFSET AGREEMENT TO TAKE EFFECT WHEN\nTHE PRESENT AGREEMENT EXPIRES.\nRETURNING TO THE MATTER OF A\nUNILATERAL REDUCTION OF U.S. FORCES IN\nEUROPE, I BELIEVE THIS IS A CASE OF\nGIVING SOMETHING AWAY AND GETTING NOTHING\nIN RETURN.\ninmyply my\nTHIS IS WHAT IS WRONG WITH\nGERMAN CHANCELLOR WILLI BRANDT'S EASTERN\nPOLICY.\nBRANDT'S EASTERN POLICY IS LIKE\nA SUPERMARKET HOPING TO COME OUT AHEAD ON\nSOME OTHER ITEMS BY OFFERING ITS\nGERALD\nLIBRARY\n-10-\nCUSTOMERS SO-CALLED \"LOSS LEADERS.\"\nTHE DANGER OF COURSE IS THAT THE\nCUSTOMER WILL AVAIL HIMSELF OF THE LOSS\nLEADER WITHOUT BUYING ANYTHING ELSE\nAND THAT IS WHAT HAS HAPPENED\nIN CONNECTION WITH CHANCELLOR BRANDT'S\nEASTERN POLICY. THE SOVIET UNION HAS\nSIGNED A NON-AGGRESSION PACT WITH THE\nFEDERAL REPUBLIC BUT HAS REFUSED TO\nCOOPERATE ON THE QUESTIONS OF FREE AND\nUNHINDERED CIVIL ACCESS TO BERLIN,\n/\nIMPROVEMENT OF TRAVEL AND COMMUNICATIONS\nFOR BERLINERS WITHIN AND AROUND BERLIN\n1\nAND THE ENDING OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST\nBERLIN BY THE SOVIET UNION AND SOME OF ITS\nALLIES.\nTHE GERMAN FEDERAL REPUBLIC HAS\nKEPT ITS SKIRTS CLEAN BY REFUSING TO\nRATIFY THE TREATIES WITH THE SOVIET UNION\nFORD LIBRARY\n-11-\nAND POLAND UNTIL SUCH TIME AS THE BERLIN\nQUESTIONS ARE SATISFACTORILY RESOLVED.\nsense.\nAS FOR EAST GERMANY, THAT\nCOMMUNIST STATE HAS REJECTED BRANDT'S\nPROPOSAL OF TWO STATES IN A SINGLE GERMAN\nNATION AND OFFERS OF CLOSER AND MORE\nNATURAL INTER-GERMAN CONTACTS.\nmy comments should not\nTHE FEDERAL REPUBLIC HAS\nREMAINED A LOYAL MEMBER OF NATO THROUGHOUT\nALL OF BRANDT'S OVERTURES TO HIS EASTERN\nNEIGHBORS, AND OUR GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN IN\nCLOSE CONSULTATION WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF\nTHE FEDERAL REPUBLIC.\nWE HAVE EMPHASIZED THE FOUR-POWER\nRIGHTS CONCERNING BERLIN WHERE THEY NEEDED\nTO BE EMPHASIZED. THE ROUND OF EXCHANGES\nON BERLIN WHICH BEGAN IN MARCH 1970 WITH\nTHE SOVIET UNION ARE CONTINUING.\nGERALD R. LIBRANY FORD\n-12-\nTHE NIXON ADMINISTRATION,\nWORKING WITH OUR NATO ALLIES, SEEKS A\nEUROPEAN DETENTE. BUT WE ARE REALISTIC\nABOUT IT. OUR THINKING IS NOT BEFOGGED\nWITH EUPHORIC MISCONCEPTIONS CONCERNING\nSOVIET AIMS.\nANY PERMANENT EASING OF TENSION\nIN EUROPE MUST INCLUDE PROGRESS IN\nSOLVING THE PROBLEM OF A DIVIDED GERMANY.\nTHE GERMAN NATIONAL QUESTION IS\nONE FOR THE GERMAN PEOPLE TO DECIDE. BUT\nTHERE IS NO DOUBT IN MY MIND THAT THIS\nQUESTION ULTIMATELY WILL BE RESOLVED ONLY\nBECAUSE THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC SPEAKS FROM\nA POSITION OF STRENGTH- ITS SECURE\nPOSITION AS A MEMBER OF A STRONG NATO.\nAS PRESIDENT NIXON HAS SAID,\n\"REDUCING THE MILITARY CONFRONTATION IN\nEUROPE IS IN THE COMMON INTEREST OF\nGLEALOR FORD LIBRARD\n-13-\nEAST AND WEST. OUR MUTUAL OBJECTIVE SHOULD\nBE TO CREATE A MORE STABLE MILITARY\nBALANCE AT LOWER LEVELS AND LOWER COSTS.\"\nBUT WHILE WE SEEK TO REDUCE\nTHE MILITARY CONFRONTATION, WE MUST MAINTAIN\nTHE RELATIVE STRENGTH OF NATO AND CONTINUE\nAMERICA'S STRONG ROLE IN NATO.\nAMERICANS AND EUROPEANS NEED\nCONSTANTLY TO BE REMINDED OF THE SOVIET\nUNION'S WESTWARD EXPANSION AT THE CLOSE\nOF WORLD WAR 11.\nIT WAS NOT UNTIL THE RUSSIANS\nHAD BROUGHT POLAND, EAST GERMANY, HUNGARY,\nBULGARIA, RUMANIA AND CZECHOSLOVAKIA INTO\nTHE COMMUNIST CAMP THAT THE FREE NATIONS\nOF EUROPE JOINED WITH THE UNITED STATES\nAND CANADA TO FORM THE NATO SHIELD AGAINST\nFURTHER ENCROACHMENTS ON THE ATLANTIC\nWORLD.\nGERALD R. LISBURY FORD\n-14-\nTHE 15-MEMBER NORTH ATLANTIC\nTREATY ORGANIZATION DEVELOPED INTO AN\nALLIANCE THAT RIMMED RUSSIA FROM NORWAY\nON THE NORTH TO TURKEY ON THE SOUTH. THUS\nDID NATO STOP THE SOVIETS TERRITORIAL\nAGGRANDIZEMENT.\nNATO'S PRINCIPAL VALUE TO WORLD\nPEACE LIES IN ITS MILITARY STRENGTH\nWE\nMUST KEEP NATO STRONG. WE MUST NOT ALLOW\nIT TO LAPSE INTO DISREPAIR. OUR\nCONTRIBUTION OF U.S. FORCES TO NATO IS\nTHE BASIS OF OUR ALLIES' CONFIDENCE IN\nUS. WE CANNOT ALLOW THAT CONFIDENCE TO\nWAVER.\nWHAT SHOULD BE THE BASIS OF NATO\nSTRATEGY IN SEEKING TO DETER AGGRESSION?\nWE MUST HAVE FORCES ABLE TO DEFEND\nAGAINST THE ENEMY WITHOUT IMMEDIATE RESORT\nTO NUCLEAR WAR. THIS WOULD GIVE US FULL\nBRARY\n-15-\nFLEXIBILITY IN RESPONDING TO ANY OUTBREAK\nOF HOSTILITIES. WE MUST BE CAPABLE OF A\nSTRONG AND CREDIBLE DEPLOYMENT OF MODERN\nNATO CONVENTIONAL FORCES. AMERICA'S\nGUARANTEE OF NUCLEAR DEFENSE is, OF COURSE,\nCRUCIAL. IT SHOULD NOT, HOWEVER, BE THE\nSOLE BASIS OF ALLIED DETERRENCE.\nAND SO WE MUST REMAIN VIGILANT\nAND WE MUST REMAIN STRONG -- WHILE AT THE\nSAME TIME WE SEEK TO WEAVE THE FABRIC OF\nAN ENDURING PEACE.\nEVERY NOW AND AGAIN I THINK OF\nWHAT I CONSIDER TO BE ONE OF THE GREATEST\nSPEECHES EVER GIVEN BY AN AMERICAN\nPRESIDENT.\nI HAVE IN MIND PRESIDENT\nEISENHOWER'S FAREWELL RADIO AND TELEVISION\nADDRESS TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, DELIVERED\nJANUARY 17, 1961.\nFORD LIBRARY y BER ALD\n-16-\naccording The media\nTHAT SPEECH IS MOST FAMOUS\nBECAUSE OF IKE'S WARNING ABOUT THE DANGERS\nOF UNDUE INFLUENCE ON THE PART OF THE\nMILITARY-INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX. BUT IKE THAT\nNIGHT SAID MANY OTHER THINGS FAR MORE\nIMPORTANT.\nAT ONE POINT, HE SAID. \"UNTIL THE\nLATEST OF OUR WORLD CONFLICTS, THE UNITED\nSTATES HAD NO ARMAMENT INDUSTRY. AMERICAN\nMAKERS OF PLOWSHARES COULD, WITH TIME AND\nAS REQUIRED, MAKE SWORDS AS WELL. BUT\nNOW WE CAN NO LONGER RISK EMERGENCY\nIMPROVISATION OF NATIONAL DEFENSE; WE HAVE\nBEEN COMPELLED TO CREATE A PERMANENT\nARMAMENTS INDUSTRY OF VAST PROPORTIONS.\"\nA LITTLE EARLIER IN HIS this same\nADDRESS, IKE DECLARED: \"A VITAL ELEMENT\nIN KEEPING THE PEACE IS OUR MILITARY\nESTABLISHMENT. OUR ARMS MUST BE MIGHTY\nFORD LIBRARY\n-17-\nREADY FOR INSTANT ACTION, SO THAT NO\nPOTENTIAL AGGRESSOR MAY BE TEMPTED TO RISK\nHIS OWN DESTRUCTION.\"\nTHIS IS MY MESSAGE TO YOU TONIGHT --\nTHAT WE AVOID FEAR AND HATE BUT THAT WE\nKNOW THE ENEMY AND BE EVER READY TO MEET\nHIM IF AND WHEN THAT DIRE EVENT IS THRUST\nUPON US IT IS ONLY THUS THAT WE CAN FILL\nTHE ROLE OF PEACEMAKERS IN THE KIND OF\nWORLD IN WHICH WE LIVE.\n1. CONGRATULATE THE STEUBEN\nSOCIETY BECAUSE I KNOW YOU ARE DEDICATED\nTO THOSE PRINCIPLES WHICH HAVE MADE AMERICA\nGREAT.\nLET US ALL EMBRACE THOSE\nPRINCIPLES AND MOVE FORWARD TOGETHER IN\nPURSUIT OF PEACE AND JUSTICE FOR PEOPLES\nTHROUGHOUT THE WORLD,\n--END--\nThe Steuben Society is committed to the promotion\nFourteen Points About\n10-This Society is composed of administrative\nof good will and lasting friendly relations with the\ngroups, known as \"Units\" and executive groups,\nGermanic peoples of Europe based upon mutual re-\nThe Steuben Society of America\ncalled \"Councils\". To the District Councils are\nspect for each other's sovereignty and right to manage\nelected delegates and alternates from Units on a\ntheir own internal affairs. The teaching of the Ger-\nIts Policy and Activities\nrepresentative basis. To the State Councils are\nelected delegates and alternates from Units; Chair-\nman language in our public schools is one of the es-\nsentials to this end.\n1-This Society aims to loyally support the Constitu-\nmen and Secretaries of District Councils are auto-\ntion of the United States of America, advocates\nmatically delegates. The National Council is com-\nthe proper application of its provisions, and en-\nposed of delegates and alternates elected in each\nDuty, Tolerance, Charity and Justice are not only\ndeavors to inculcate the principles underlying\nState on the basis of the number of Units. Such\ncornerstones of the structure of the Steuben Society\ngovernment by a Federal Republic with limited,\nelections have the nature of promotion for ability\nof America, but are fundamental to the existence of\ndelegated powers.\ndisplayed and service rendered.\nthe American Republic itself. Upon this foundation\n11-This Society's members must be citizens of the\nthe Society is satisfied to have its edifice rest forever.\n2-This Society is dedicated to maintaining the in-\nUnited States of America, must be able to vote, be\ndependence and sovereignty of the United States\nof good repute and, wholly or in part; of German-\nof America and its freedom from all foreign in-\nic origin. Persons who were shifters and trimmers,\nfluence.\nor who are known to possess no pride of ancestry\nare not eligible for membership. No distinctions\n\"THE OBJECTIVE\"\n3-This Society engages in City, County, State and\nNational civic affairs. The Unit attends to local\nare drawn as to creed or political tendency.\nThe Society's object is to draw into closer relation-\nmatters, the District Council to a larger political\n11a-Germanic immigrants, desirous of becoming citi-\nship through historic and ethnic bonds of sympathy,\ndivision, the State Council to State matters and\nzens, who otherwise possess the above-mentioned\nAmericans who maintain their faith in the sturdy vir-\nthe National Council to National matters and\nqualifications may join a \"Prospective Citizens\ntues of the race of Steuben, as manifested in the mak-\nForeign Affairs.\nLeague\". Where such a League does not now\ning of America from the earliest settlements on the\nexist, a group of 15 or more such future citizens\n4-This Society pledges itself to promote the election\nmay apply to the nearest Unit or Council of the\nNorth American continent to the present day. This\nto public office of men and women known to be\nSociety for a charter.\ntask it has set itself to perform as an American So-\nreliable and worthy, who will strive to preserve\nciety to advance the causes of popular historical and\n12-This Society holds that quality is the first con-\nand strengthen our Constitution and sovereignty,\npolitical education, a more just appraisal of historic\nsideration, quality being based not on wealth or\nand who recognize our Constitution as the su-\nand ethnic values, and to interpret and perpetuate\nposition, but upon personal worth.\npreme law of the land.\nAmerican principles of liberty; to further promote\n13-This Society endeavors to maintain strict disci-\nAmerican solidarity and to exalt the American ideal\n5-This Society uses the American language. The\npline. Self-seeking is made impossible by the Laws\nof government \"of, by and for the people\"!\ngroups of the Society are units for the civic edu-\nof the Society. This Society supplements the ac-\ncation and activity of members, though not with-\ntivities of German-American organizations in a\nout social and cultural endeavor. It considers the\nhitherto neglected field, and is not in conflict with\nteaching of the German language essential to the\nany existing organization. The Society was organ-\npromotion of good will and friendly relations\nized in May, 1919, and operates in many States.\nTHE LANGUAGE MEMBERSHIP\nwith Germany.\nPublic discussion of intrinsic and internal affairs\nand the resources of the Society by unauthorized\nThe Steuben Society uses the language of the Amer-\n6-This Society hopes to bring together all Amer-\nmembers is not permitted.\nConstitution in all its deliberations; it is not a\nican\nand\nmanv\nof\nits\nmembers\nican citizens of Germanic origin for .re the purpose\nof\nforeign\nlanguage\ngroup\ndue\nsafequarding promoting their political and\nand\n14-This Society is dedicated to enlightened participa-\ntion in local, state and national affairs. It is not\ntrace their lineage back to the seventeenth century,\ncivic stature.\nin any sense a political party, nor a group serving\nto ancestors who fought in the Revolution, the War\nwith Mexico and the Civil War, and many of its most\n7-This Society is not a secret Society, but is of a\nthe purposes of any political party, nor shall it\nserve any individual's personal ambitions.\nactive members were in the armed forces in both\nnon-public character.\nThe policies of the Society on all issues are de-\nWorld Wars, \"and all military engagements since\".\n8-This Society employs a Ceremonial and Order of\nveloped by open debate in Units and Councils\nAll American citizens wholly or in part of Germanic\nBusiness.\nand especially at the State and National Conven-\nextraction and of good repute, who are in accord\ntions. These policies on important issues are\nwith the principles outlined herein, are invited to\n9-This Society's \"Constitution and Statutes\" are\nclearly stated in the State and National Platforms\nbecome members and will be welcomed in the\nmodeled after the general principles of repre-\nand Programs, issued after each convention. These\nSteuben Society of America.\nsentative government. It provides for the oppor-\nPlatforms, the \"Steuben News\" and direct com-\nBecause of a recent amendment to the Constitution\ntunity of the able members to advance. There is\nmunications convey our stand to the public, to\nSTEUBE\nof our Society, we can now welcome our younger\nno super-body of self-instituted and self-perpetua-\nour government and to our elected representa-\ncitizens to join us at the age of 18 years.\nting governors.\ntives.\n8\n9\n10\nDate Elected:\nCity:\nIntrodution Fee:\nRecommended by: No.\nProposed by:\nNationality of Father:\nBorn at:\nHome Address:\nDate of Birth:\nOccupation:\nquently and purposefully, until they decided definite-\n10-This Societ\nApplicant's Name:\nThe Steuben Society is committed to the promotion\nFourteen Points About\nly to organize in order to arouse citizens of Germanic\nof good will and lasting friendly relations with the\ngroups, know\norigin to a greater sense of their civic, educational,\nGermanic peoples of Europe based upon mutual re-\nThe Steuben Society of America\ncalled \"Cour\npatriotic and political duties and rights. Thus in\nspect for each other's sovereignty and right to manage\nelected deleg\nIts Policy and Activities\nrepresentativ\nIf father or mother are born in the United States, are they of Germanic extraction?\nelected deleg\nNo.\nman language in our public schools is one of the es-\nmen and Sec\nnaturalized citizen, give date, place and number of issue of naturalization (citizen) paper.\nAny erroneous information given is sufficient reason for expulsion.\nMay 1919 the Steuben Society of America was born.\ntheir own internal affairs. The teaching of the Ger-\nsentials to this end.\n1-This Society aims to loyally support the Constitu-\ntion of the United States of America, advocates\nmatically del\nthe proper application of its provisions, and en-\nposed of del\nDuty, Tolerance, Charity and Justice are not only\n\"THE PURPOSE\"\ndeavors to inculcate the principles underlying\nState on the\ncornerstones of the structure of the Steuben Society\ngovernment by a Federal Republic with limited,\nelections hav\nof America, but are fundamental to the existence of\nThe Society was created to be an organization in-\ndelegated powers.\ndisplayed ar\nState\nthe American Republic itself. Upon this foundation\ndependent of politicial parties and remains so today.\n11-This Society\nIt does not intend to dictate to its members how to\nthe Society is satisfied to have its edifice rest forever.\n2-This Society is dedicated to maintaining the in-\nUnited State\ndependence and sovereignty of the United States\nvote, but endeavors to instruct them in the field of\nof good repu\nof America and its freedom from all foreign in-\nic origin. Pe\nDate\npublic service and the intelligent use of the ballot.\nfluence.\nor who are\nare not elig\nCountry\nThe Steuben Society of America is a voluntary\n\"THE OBJECTIVE\"\n3-This Society engages in City, County, State and\nare drawn a\nmembership organization formed to stimulate among\nNational civic affairs. The Unit attends to local\nall American citizens an active interest in their Gov-\nThe Society's object is to draw into closer relation-\nmatters, the District Council to a larger political\n11a-Germanic i\nUnit No.\nUnit\nZip No.\nAre You of Voting Age?\nernment. It is National in scope and consists of Units\nship through historic and ethnic bonds of sympathy,\ndivision, the State Council to State matters and\nzens, who of\nTel.:\nAmericans who maintain their faith in the sturdy vir-\nthe National Council to National matters and\nqualification\nin many cities. The organization desires to unite men\ntues of the race of Steuben, as manifested in the mak-\nForeign Affairs.\nLeague\". W\nand women of Germanic origin who have common\ning of America from the earliest settlements on the\nexist, a grou\ninterests, so that they may obtain a better under-\nNorth American continent to the present day. This\n4-This Society pledges itself to promote the election\nmay apply\nCitizen?\nstanding of their civic duties, and to assist them in\nto public office of men and women known to be\nSociety for\ntaking an active part in public affairs.\ntask it has set itself to perform as an American So-\nreliable and worthy, who will strive to preserve\n12-This Society\nciety to advance the causes of popular historical and\nand strengthen our Constitution and sovereignty,\npolitical education, a more just appraisal of historic\nsideration, o\nThe members of the Steuben Society are American\nand who recognize our Constitution as the su-\ncitizens of Germanic origin who wish to promote\nand ethnic values, and to interpret and perpetuate\nposition, bu\npreme law of the land.\ncivic betterment in the United States by doing their\nAmerican principles of liberty; to further promote\n13-This Society\nAmerican solidarity and to exalt the American ideal\n5-This Society uses the American language. The\npline. Self-se\nshare and taking their proper part as loyal citizens\ngroups of the Society are units for the civic edu-\nof the Socie\nin the political and social life of the country.\nof government \"of, by and for the people\"!\ncation and activity of members, though not with-\ntivities of\no\nout social and cultural endeavor. It considers the\nhitherto neg\nteaching of the German language essential to the\nany existing\npromotion of good will and friendly relations\nized in May\nTHE LANGUAGE - MEMBERSHIP\nwith Germany.\nPublic discu\nOUR NATION - OUR IDEALS\nand the reso\nThe Steuben Society uses the language of the Amer-\n6-This Society hopes to bring together all Amer-\nmembers is\nThe Steuben Society recognizes that is a\nican Constitution in all its deliberations; it is not a\nican citizens of Germanic origin for Purpose\nof.immigran all parts of Europe, who\nforeign language group many of its members\nof safequarding andromoting their political and\nSociety\nhave built out of Nature's rich resources, often under\ntrace their lineage back to the seventeenth century,\ntion in local,\ncivic stature.\nto ancestors who fought in the Revolution, the War\nin any sense\nprivation and hardship, a mighty Republic whose\nwith Mexico and the Civil War, and many of its most\n7-This Society is not a secret Society, but is of a\nthe purposes\nindustrial and agricultural wealth stands unequaled\nactive members were in the armed forces in both\nnon-public character.\nserve any ind\nin the world today.\nWorld Wars, \"and all military engagements since\".\nThe policies\n8-This Society employs a Ceremonial and Order of\nveloped by o\nIn acknowledging the contributions of all racial\nAll American citizens wholly or in part of Germanic\nBusiness.\nand especially\nSTEUBEN SOCIETY\nextraction and of good repute, who are in accord\nelements, the Steuben Society considers it a duty to\ntions. These\nwith the principles outlined herein, are invited to\ninstill a patriotic fervor in every citizen. It will de-\n9-This Society's \"Constitution and Statutes\" are\nclearly stated\nbecome members and will be welcomed in the\nmodeled after the general principles of repre-\nOF AMERICA\nnounce and forcefully oppose any and all attempts to\nand Programs\nSteuben Society of America.\nsentative government. It provides for the oppor-\nPlatforms, the\ndiscredit, malign or abuse any loyal element of the\nBecause of a recent amendment to the Constitution\ntunity of the able members to advance. There is\nmunications\n369 LEXINGTON AVENUE, NEW YORK, N. Y. 10017\nAmerican people, and will zealously guard the liber-\nof our Society, we can now welcome our younger\nno super-body of self-instituted and self-perpetua-\nour government\nties for which our forefathers fought.\ncitizens to join us at the age of 18 years.\nting governors.\ntives.\n7\n8\n9\nAIMS AND PURPOSES OF THE\nconstitutional republic and for freedom in preserving\nThe Steuben Society of America\nSTEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA\nthis nation. This struggle for American freedom con-\ntinues today as the people of our Nation and those of\nTHE PATRON\nThe\nFOREWORD\nhad mu\nLoyally to support the Constitution of the United\nthe Free World are called on to face an alien and\nmanic\nStates of America by advocating the proper applica-\nVoluntary membership organizations have eminent-\natheistic doctrine promulgated the world over by\nGeneral Frederick William von Steuben was born\nued for\ntion of its provisions and inculcating the principles\nly contributed to the progress of these United States\nCommunist subservients.\nat Magdeburg, Germany, on September 17, 1730. He\nthem a\ncame to America in 1777 to offer his services to the\nunderlying true democratic government;\nof America. Each organization directing its efforts\nWhile man can now walk the moon - during this\nCongress of the United States struggling for its in-\nbroadly\ntoward certain worthwhile endeavors, in which it is\nTo quicken the spirit of sound Americanism and\nsatellite, atomic, and missile age, we live in the midst\ndependence, ready to serve under George Washing-\nment o\ninterested, makes for an overall effort for the welfare\nfoster a patriotic American spirit among all citizens;\nof alarms. With each new day, new anxieties seem to\nton, the commander-in-chief in any capacity in which\nof the entire country. We recognize the work of all\nbecloud the future of our country; yet Americans\nhis experience would best serve its cause.\nTo aid in maintaining the independence and sover-\nsuch organizations.\nmust not panic. We must retain our sense of direction\nThe conduct of General von Steuben, the friend\neignty of the United States of America and its free-\nThe American Way of Life is a blend of the cult-\nand not become defeatists. Ideas and words of clear,\nof George Washington and drill master and organizer.\ndom from all foreign influence;\nural gifts of the peoples of all lands.\ncalm appraisal must rise from citizens, regardless of\nof the revolutionary army whose services contributed\nThes\nAs American citizens of German blood, we take\nparty, above discordant voices and unsupported\nmuch toward winning the war for American indepen-\ndescend\nTo establish co-operation among its members in\nopinions.\ndence, is a shining example of the aims and purposes\nwhethe\nthe exercise of their civic duties and to encourage\njustifiable pride in the realization that all segments of\nwhich the founders of the Steuben Society of Amer-\neminen\namong them an active participation in every phase\nAmerican life have been enriched by the contribu-\nTo remain a free nation we must rededicate our-\nica wished its prospective members to know and\ntions of men and women of our race in the arts, in the\nselves to the principles heretofore established by those\nlearn to follow.\nlargest\nof our national life;\nto shun\nsciences and in government.\nwho over the years gave us our manifest of patriotism.\nSteuben had the advantage of military schooling,\nthe go\nTo promote the Welfare and enhance the happi-\nOur continuing contributions can best be assured\nThe Steuben Society of America works for the accom-\nand had given distinguished service in the Prussian\nbusines\nness of its members and their fellowmen;\nand can only prosper in a climate of understanding\nplishment of these goals. We urge all good citizens to\nArmy. His admiration for the struggling young\nambitio\nparticipate in a rededication to the principles of\nAmerican nation and his love of freedom decided his\nTo perpetuate itself as a patriotic and fraternal\nand tolerance under a political system based on equal-\nship of\nity, justice and freedom.\npatriotism and the love of country in preserving our\ncourse of action. History records that he was one of\nvoluntary membership organization and to provide\ngreat Republic.\nAmerica's foremost citizens, of whom Americans of\nThe\nfor its government;\nIt is to this objective that the program of the\nGermanic origin can be proud. George Washington\nFor over fifty years, alert, upright American citi-\nticipati\nTo guard our political liberty by maintaining an\nSteuben Society of America is dedicated.\nin a letter to Steuben, dated Annapolis, December\nzens of Germanic descent throughout America have\n23, 1783, said in part, \"I wish to make use of this last\nship wa\nhonest equality of citizenship regardless of the birth,\nThis booklet is intended for those willing to share\nmoment in my public life to signify in the strongest\nof past\nunited in the Steuben Society of America, a volun-\norigin or religion of any citizen;\nin a responsibility to your benefit to preserve and\nteer, patriotic national organization, to maintain pro-\nterms my entire approbation of your conduct and to\nmerged\nperpetuate our precious freedoms and to conquer\nexpress my sense of the obligation the public is under\nthe im\nTo maintain the traditions of our country.\ngrams rendering worthwhile services on a National,\nto you for your faithful and meritorius service\"; and\nment o\napathy. This folder tells something of the Steuben\nState and Community level. The membership of this\n\"This is the last letter I shall ever write while I con-\nand de\nSociety of America, and is intended to serve as an ap-\nSociety and its conduct is such as to command the\ntinue in the service of my country\".\nforgotte\npeal to join our ranks.\nrespect of all decent fellow citizens.\nic origi\nGeneral von Steuben became an American citizen\nThere is a great need for Americans to be well\nity who\nAs a conscientious citizen you should be aware that\nand after freedom was won took an active part in the\nversed in American history and what that history\nalways\nSOCIETY\nin order to secure and enjoy your rights and freedom\naffairs of the young nation. He prepared for the de-\ndown.\nSECURITY\nOF\nmeans in terms of rights and freedom and the per-\nyou cannot afford is neglect your duties toward your\nfence of the harbor of New York, developed plans for\npetuation of this Republic of the people.\ncountry.\nthe United States Military Academy at West Point,\nAMERICA\nN. Y. and wrote the United States Army training\nThe first Continental Congress was formed to\nAs an individual, your efforts are necessarily lim-\nmanual. He died on November 28, 1794 and was laid\nunite the Colonies and to create a Continental Army\nited. As a member of an organized group much more\nto rest in a hero's grave on his estate at Remsen,\nTHE\nwhich, in turn, helped to make possible the writing of\nworthwhile work can be done.\nOneida County, N. Y.\nThere\nthe greatest documents of freedom known to man-\nboth H\nFOUNDED\nMAY\n6161\nWe would welcome the opportunity to enlist you\nIt is of particular interest that his name was\nkind, the Constitution of the United States and the\nselected by the founders of the Society upon the sug-\nfigure,\nas a member. For further information, why not con-\nBill of Rights.\nhumilia\ntact us?\ngestion of a United States Senator who was not of\nThe descendants of Americans of Germanic origin,\nGerman ancestry, who recognized the need for such\nthrough\ntogether with the thousands of freedom loving\nSTEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA\nan organization. Thus Frederick William von Steu-\nthe neo\nben became the patron of the Steuben Society of\nfairs. T\npeople who have come to us in the intervening years,\n369 Lexington Avenue\nAmerica.\nthe mir\nhave fought to retain the sovereignty of this great\nNew York, N. Y. 10017\nin New\n2\n3\n5\n4\nconstitutional republic and for freedom in preserving\nThe Steuben Society of America\nGERMANIC IMMIGRANTS\nthis nation. This struggle for American freedom con-\nTHE PATRON\nThe inspiring example set by General von Steuben\ntinues today as the people of our Nation and those of\nhad much to do with the wave of immigrants of Ger-\nthe Free World are called on to face an alien and\nmanic origin which developed thereafter and contin-\nhave\neminent-\natheistic doctrine promulgated the world over by\nGeneral Frederick William von Steuben was born\nued for more than a century. They brought with\nUnited\nStates\nCommunist subservients.\nat Magdeburg, Germany, on September 17, 1730. He\ncame to America in 1777 to offer his services to the\nthem a strong, inherent trait of individualism which,\nits\nefforts\nWhile man can now walk the moon - during this\nCongress of the United States struggling for its in-\nbroadly applied, helped greatly in the rapid develop-\nin\nwhich\nit\nis\ndependence, ready to serve under George Washing-\nment of the new American nation.\nsatellite, atomic, and missile age, we live in the midst\nfor\nthe\nwelfare\nof alarms. With each new day, new anxieties seem to\nton, the commander-in-chief in any capacity in which\nthe\nwork\nhis experience would best serve its cause.\nDate\nof\nall\nbecloud the future of our country; yet Americans\nmust not panic. We must retain our sense of direction\nThe conduct of General von Steuben, the friend\nend\nof\nthe\ncult-\nand not become defeatists. Ideas and words of clear,\nof George Washington and drill master and organizer\n\"POLITICS FORBIDDEN\"! A FALLACY!\ncalm appraisal must rise from citizens, regardless of\nof the revolutionary army whose services contributed\nThese Germanic pioneers and their American-born\nparty, above discordant voices and unsupported\nmuch toward winning the war for American indepen-\nblood,\nwe\ntake\ndescendants, in their own selected business pursuits -\nall\nopinions.\ndence, is a shining example of the aims and purposes\nsegments\nof\nwhich the founders of the Steuben Society of Amer-\nwhether agricultural, industrial or intellectual were\nthe\ncontribu-\nTo remain a free nation we must rededicate our-\nica wished its prospective members to know and\neminently successful. Although forming the second\nthe\narts,\nin\nselves to the principles heretofore established by those\nlearn to follow.\nlargest racial stock, these Americans had a disposition\nthe\nSignature\nto shun activity in purely political affairs, as long as\nwho over the years gave us our manifest of patriotism.\nSteuben had the advantage of military schooling,\nthe government did not interfere with their own\nPlace.\nbest\nbe\nassured\nThe Steuben Society of America works for the accom-\nand had given distinguished service in the Prussian\nbusiness pursuits. They did not develop any special\nTo the STEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA\n\"I hereby apply for membership in your Society, and if accepted,\nwill give my best efforts to further its aims and purposes.\"\nHave you ever been in any other Unit?\nAre you a member of any political Club, Society, League or Organization?\nunderstanding\nplishment of these goals We urge all good citizens to\nArmy. His admiration for the struggling young\nambition towards organizing their group for leader-\nbased\nparticipate in a rededication to the principles of\nAmerican nation and his love of freedom decided his\non\nequal-\nship of a purely political character.\nIf so, state name, location and particulars\npatriotism and the love of country in preserving our\ncourse of action. History records that he was one of\ngreat Republic.\nAmerica's foremost citizens, of whom Americans of\nThe fallacy of this tendency to shun political par-\nAPPLICATION\nIf so, state full particulars\nprogram\nof\nthe\nGermanic origin can be proud. George Washington\nticipation, and the resulting lack of political leader-\nFor over fifty years, alert, upright American citi-\nin a letter to Steuben, dated Annapolis, December\n23, 1783, said in part, \"I wish to make use of this last\nship was painfully brought home in the experiences\nzens of Germanic descent throughout America have\nwilling\nto\nshare\nmoment in my public life to signify in the strongest\nof past periods when truth and decency were sub-\nunited in the Steuben Society of America, a volun-\npreserve\nand\nterms my entire approbation of your conduct and to\nmerged in the passions of hatred and vengeance, and\nteer, patriotic national organization, to maintain pro-\nexpress my sense of the obligation the public is under\nthe important contributions this second largest ele-\nto\nconquer\ngrams rendering worthwhile services on a National,\nto you for your faithful and meritorius service\"; and\nment of its citizenry had made towards the creation\nof\nthe\nSteuben\nState and Community level. The membership of this\n\"This is the last letter I shall ever write while I con-\nand development of our American nation were often\nserve\nas\nan\nap-\nSociety and its conduct is such as to command the\ntinue in the service of my country\".\nforgotten. There were among the citizens of German-\nrespect of all decent fellow citizens.\nic origin men and women of true courage and abil-\nGeneral von Steuben became an American citizen\nto\nbe\nwell\nity who pleaded for reason and justice, but they were\nAs a conscientious citizen you should be aware that\nand after freedom was won took an active part in the\nthat\nhistory\nalways in the minority and were forcibly shouted\nin orue\nto secure and enjoy your rights and freedom\naffairs of the young nation. He prepared for the de-\ndown.\nand\nthe\nper-\nyour\nduties\ntoward\nyou\ncannot\naffort\nyour\nfence of the harbor of New York. developed plans for\nnegister\nthe United States Military Academy at West Point,\ncountry.\nN. Y. and wrote the United States Army training\nformed\nto\nAs an individual, your efforts are necessarily lim-\nmanual. He died on November 28, 1794 and was laid\n\"THE CAUSE\"\nI RECOMMEND\nntinental\nArmy\nited. As a member of an organized group much more\nto rest in a hero's grave on his estate at Remsen,\nthe\nwriting\nof\nworthwhile work can be done.\nOneida County, N. Y.\nThere was a lack of sufficient representation in\nas a member for the Steuben Society:\nto\nboth Houses of Congress and there was no national\nman-\nWe would welcome the opportunity to enlist you\nIt is of particular interest that his name was\nStates\nand\nthe\nfigure, no great leader, to advocate their cause. This\nNAME\nas a member. For further information, why not con-\nselected by the founders of the Society upon the sug-\nhumiliating position caused the Germanic element\ntact us?\ngestion of a United States Senator who was not of\nGerman ancestry, who recognized the need for such\nthroughout the land to feel more keenly than ever\nADDRESS\nPHONE\nermanic\norigin,\nreedom\nSTEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA\nan organization. Thus Frederick William von Steu-\nthe necessity for greater participation in public af-\nloving\nben became the patron of the Steuben Society of\nfairs. The realization of this need was the thought in\ntervening\nyears,\n369 Lexington Avenue\nAmerica.\nthe minds of a small group of men, who in 1919 met\nof\nthis\ngreat\nin New York, first socially and casually, then fre-\nREMARKS\nNew York, N. Y. 10017\n5\n6\n4\nSIGNED\nDistribution: 20 copies mailed to\nSteuben Sr 5/20/71 pm\nmoffice Copy\nAN ADDRESS BY REP. GERALD R. FORD, R-MICH.\nREPUBLICAN LEADER, U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES\nBEFORE THE STEUBEN SOCIETY\nAT THE AMERICANA HOTEL, NEW YORK, NEW YORK\n7 p.m. SATURDAY, MAY 22, 1971\nFOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY\nGood evening. I am very happy to be here. It is always a pleasure to be\namong citizens who have a deep devotion to duty and a keen awareness of their\nresponsibilities as Americans.\nI share with you your pride in the accomplishments of the Revolutionary War\ngeneral, Frederick William von Steuben. Certainly General von Steuben occupies a\nplace of great honor in the history of America. It might well be said that the\nAmerican colonists would never have won their freedom without his valiant services.\nIn looking over the Steuben Society's objectives and aims, I was most\nimpressed by your 14 points and notably the fact that this Society is \"dedicated\nto enlightened participation in local, state and national affairs.\"\nMy remarks tonight may not be entertaining. I have never been very good\nat comedy routines. But my comments may be enlightening.\nAll of us in America need all of the enlightenment that may be available,\nfor we live in perilous times.\nWe live in an age when freedom has come heavily under attack.\nI speak of the continuing danger of Communist expansionism.\nI speak of an atmosphere which is becoming more and more pervasive among\nAmericans, an atmosphere which is giving rise to broadened and heightened attacks\non the free enterprise system and on the institution of free democratic government\nitself.\nI speak of the Soviet drive for superiority in nuclear power, in technology\nand in naval forces.\nI speak of the fact that while the Soviet Union continues to increase its\ndefense outlays, we have been drastically reducing ours in constant dollars.\nWhile the Soviet Union makes great efforts to build up its Navy, we allow\nours to ride at anchor. While the Soviet Union sends increasing numbers of ships\ninto the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean, leading members of the\nUnited States Senate cast about for ways to cut our defense budget.\n(more)\nGERALD FORD LIBRARY\n-2-\nIn the area of nuclear power, the Soviets in the last three years have\nachieved parity with us. The Russians now are developing super warheads, much\nlarger than any in our arsenal. At the same time the Russians have been increasing\nthe number and accuracy of their intercontinental ballistic missiles.\nThe threat of nuclear war hangs over the world like a time bomb. Let us\nhope the process of defusing that bomb began with the announcement last Thursday\nin Washington and Moscow that the United States and the Soviet Union had agreed\nto negotiate limitations on both offensive and defensive nuclear weapons\nsimultaneously.\nThis agreement is clearly one of the most significant breakthroughs for\npeace in the history of the modern world--a breakthrough in our efforts to place\ncurbs on the development of nuclear weapons.\nWhile intensive negotiations lie ahead and concrete agreements may yet elude\nus, we must recognize this initial agreement as a step toward preserving the peace\nof the world and a step toward relief from the crushing cost burden of the arms\nrace.\nThe U.S.-Russian agreement to pursue negotiations involving both offensive\nand defensive nuclear weapons holds a vast potential for benefit to mankind. It\nindicates a more enlightened attitude on the part of the Russians. It prompts\nme to look for the day when we can come to a substantive arms control agreement. I\nfeel there is genuine cause for optimism.\nWhile we continue to negotiate, we must always keep in mind that peace comes\nto the strong. I think the recently-announced .S.-Soviet agreement points up\nthe fact that President Nixon held the ABM in his hand as a trump card. It under-\nscores the wisdom of his refusal to throw that card away in the face of attacks\nby the Senate doves.\nWe must not, of course, allow the exhileration of the moment to run away\nwith reason.\nMany obstacles lie in the path of any further agreements with the Soviet\nUnion, and not the least of these has been the Russian attempt to bring about the\ndismantling of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.\nIt is a hopeful note that the Russians now are indicating a willingness to\ndiscuss a mutual reduction of forces in Europe. They had been insisting on a U.S.\nwithdrawal without a corresponding Soviet withdrawal from Eastern Europe.\nI am opposed to a unilateral reduction of U.S. forces in Europe, now or at\n(more)\n-3-\nany time in the future. Our objective should be a mutual reduction, and we must\nexpand and intensify our negotiations to that end.\nUnilateral reductions would weaken the possibility of getting the Soviet\nUnion to withdraw some of its forces from Eastern Europe.\nI welcome Leonid Brezhnev's initiative in this regard. This was a response\nto a NATO invitation to discuss mutual troop withdrawals. It will be on the agenda\nof the NATO meeting in June.\nThere is, of course, continuing talk of shifting a greater portion of the\nNATO expense burden to our NATO allies.\nIn view of our shockingly poor balance of payments situation, a greater\ncontribution on the part of our NATO allies is very much to be desired.\nOf the 300,000 U.S. troops in Europe, 210,000 are stationed in Germany.\nMaintaining this level of troops in Germany created a balance-of-payments outflow\nof $1 billion each year in 1969 and 1970.\nFortunately, the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany concluded\nan agreement designed to offset most of this balance-of-payments outflow during the\nperiod July 1, 1969 through June 30, 1971. We now must negotiate a new offset\nagreement to take effect when the present agreement expires.\nReturning to the matter of a unilateral reduction of U.S. forces in Europe,\nI believe this is a case of giving something away and getting nothing in return.\nThis is what is wrong with German Chancellor Willi Brandt's Eastern policy.\nBrandt's Eastern policy is like a. supermarket hoping to come out ahead on\nsome other items by offering its customers so-called \"loss leaders.' The danger,\nof course, is that the customer will avail himself of the loss leader without buying\nanything else.\nAnd that is whar has happened in connection with Chancellor Brandt's Eastern\npolicy. The Soviet Union has signed a non-aggression pact with the Federal\nRepublic but has refused to cooperate on the questions of free and unhindered civil\naccess to Berlin, improvement of travel and communications for Berliners within and\naround Berlin, and the ending of discrimination against Berlin by the Soviet Union\nand some of its allies.\nThe German Federal Republic has kept its skirts clean by refusing to ratify\nthe treaties with the Soviet Union and Poland until such time as the Berlin questions\nare satisfactorily resolved.\nAs for East Germany, that Communist state has rejected Brandt's proposal of\n(more)\nIi\ntwo states in a single German nation and offers of closer and more natural\ninter-German contacts.\nThe Federal Republic has remained a loyal member of NATO throughout all of\nBrandt's overtures to his Eastern neighbors, and our government has been in close\nconsultation with the government of the Federal Republic.\nWe have emphasized the four-power rights concerning Berlin where they needed\nto be emphasized. The round of exchanges on Berlin which began in March 1970 with\nthe Soviet Union are continuing.\nThe Nixon Administration, working with our NATO allies, seeks a European\ndetente. But we are realistic about it. Our thinking is not befogged with\neuphoric misconceptions concerning Soviet aims.\nAny permanent easing of tension in Europe must include progress in solving\nthe problem of a divided Germany.\nThe German national question is one for the German people to decide. But\nthere is no doubt in my mind that this question ultimately will be resolved only\nbecause the Federal Republic speaks from a position of strength--its secure position\nas a member of a strong NATO.\nAs President Nixon has said, \"Reducing the military confrontation in Europe\nis in the common interest of East and West. Our mutual objective should be to\ncreate a more stable military balance at lower levels and lower costs.\"\nBut while we seek to reduce the military confrontation, we must maintain the\nrelative strength of NATO and continue America's strong role in NATO.\nAmericans and Europeans need constantly to be reminded of the Soviet Union's\nwestward expansion at the close of World War II.\nIt was not until the Russians had brought Poland, East Germany, Hungary,\nBulgaria, Rumania and Czechoslovakia into the Communist camp that the free nations\nof Europe joined with the United States and Canada to form the NATO shield against\nfurther encroachments on the Atlantic world.\nThe 15-member North Atlantic Treaty Organization developed into an alliance\nthat rimmed Russia from Norway on the north to Turkey on the south. Thus did NATO\nstop the Soviets' territorial aggrandizement.\nNATO's principal value to world peace lies in its military strength. We must\nkeep NATO strong. We must not allow it to lapse into disrepair. Our contribution\nof U.S. forces to NATO is the basis of our allies' confidence in us. We cannot\nallow that confidence to waver.\n(more)\n5-\nWhat should be the basis of NATO strategy in seeking to deter aggression?\nWe must have forces able to defend against the enemy without immediate resort\nto nuclear war. This would give us full flexibility in responding to any outbreak\nof hostilities. We must be capable of a strong and credible deployment of modern\nNATO conventional forces. America's guarantee of nuclear defense is, of course,\ncrucial. It should not, however, be the sole basis of Allied deterrence.\nAnd so we must remain vigilant and we must remain strong--while at the same\ntime we seek to weave the fabric of an enduring peace.\nEvery now and again I think of what I consider to be one of the greatest\nspeeches ever given by an American President.\nI have in mind President Eisenhower's Farewell Radio and Television Address\nto the American People, delivered Jan. 17, 1961.\nThat speech is most famous because of Ike's warning about the dangers of\nundue influence on the part of the military-industrial complex. But Ike that night\nsaid many other things far more important.\nAt one point, he said: \"Until the latest of our world conflicts, the United\nStates had no armament industry. American makers of plowshares could, with time\nand as required, make swords as well. But now we can no longer risk emergency\nimprovisation of national defense; we have been compelled to create a permanent\narmaments industry of vast proportions.\"\nA little earlier in his address, Ike declared: \"A vital element in keeping\nthe peace is our military establishment. Our arms must be mighty, ready for instant\naction, so that no potential aggressor may be tempted to risk his own destruction.\"\nThis is my message to you tonight--that we avoid fear and hate but that we\nknow the enemy and be ever ready to meet him if and when that dire event is thrust\nupon us. It is only thus that we can fill the role of peacemakers in the kind of\nworld in which we live.\nI congratulate the Steuben Society because I know you are dedicated to those\nprinciples which have made America great.\nLet us all embrace those principles and move forward together in pursuit of\npeace and justice for peoples throughout the world.\n###\nAN ADDRESS BY REP. GERALD R. FORD, R-MICH.\nREPUBLICAN LEADER, U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES\nBEFORE THE STEUBEN SOCIETY\nAT THE AMERICANA HOTEL, NEW YORK, NEW YORK\n7 p.m. SATURDAY, MAY 22, 1971\nFOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY\nGood evening. I am very happy to be here. It is always a pleasure to be\namong citizens who have a deep devotion to duty and a keen awareness of their\nresponsibilities as Americans.\nI share with you your pride in the accomplishments of the Revolutionary War\ngeneral, Frederick William von Steuben. Certainly General von Steuben occupies a\nplace of great honor in the history of America. It might well be said that the\nAmerican colonists would never have won their freedom without his valiant services.\nIn looking over the Steuben Society's objectives and aims, I was most\nimpressed by your 14 points and notably the fact that this Society is \"dedicated\nto enlightened participation in local, state and national affairs.\"\nMy remarks tonight may not be entertaining. I have never been very good\nat comedy routines. But my comments may be enlightening.\nAll of us in America need all of the enlightenment that may be available,\nfor we live in perilous times.\nWe live in an age when freedom has come heavily under attack.\nI speak of the continuing danger of Communist expansionism.\nI speak of an atmosphere which is becoming more and more pervasive among\nAmericans, an atmosphere which is giving rise to broadened and heightened attacks\non the free enterprise system and on the institution of free democratic government\nitself.\nI speak of the Soviet drive for superiority in nuclear power, in technology\nand in naval forces.\nI speak of the fact that while the Soviet Union continues to increase its\ndefense outlays, we have been drastically reducing ours in constant dollars.\nWhile the Soviet Union makes great efforts to build up its Navy, we allow\nours to ride at anchor. While the Soviet Union sends increasing numbers of ships\ninto the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean, leading members of the\nUnited States Senate cast about for ways to cut our defense budget.\n(more)\n--2-\nIn the area of nuclear power, the Soviets in the last three years have\nachieved parity with us. The Russians now are developing super warheads, much\nlarger than any in our arsenal. At the same time the Russians have been increasing\nthe number and accuracy of their intercontinental ballistic missiles.\nThe threat of nuclear war hangs over the world like a time bomb. Let us\nhope the process of defusing that bomb began with the announcement last Thursday\nin Washington and Moscow that the United States and the Soviet Union had agreed\nto negotiate limitations on both offensive and defensive nuclear weapons\nsimultaneously.\nThis agreement is clearly one of the most significant breakthroughs for\npeace in the history of the modern world--a breakthrough in our efforts to place\ncurbs on the development of nuclear weapons.\nWhile intensive negotiations lie ahead and concrete agreements may yet elude\nus, we must recognize this initial agreement as a step toward preserving the peace\nof the world and a step toward relief from the crushing cost burden of the arms\nrace.\nThe U.S.-Russian agreement to pursue negotiations involving both offensive\nand defensive nuclear weapons holds a vast potential for benefit to mankind. It\nindicates a more enlightened attitude on the part of the Russians. It prompts\nme to look for the day when we can come to a substantive arms control agreement. I\nfeel there is genuine cause for optimism.\nWhile we continue to negotiate, we must always keep in mind that peace comes\nto the strong. I think the recently-announced S.-Soviet agreement points up\nthe fact that President Nixon held the ABM in his hand as a trump card. It under-\nscores the wisdom of his refusal to throw that card away in the face of attacks\nby the Senate doves.\nWe must not, of course, allow the exhileration of the moment to run away\nwith reason.\nMany obstacles lie in the path of any further agreements with the Soviet\nUnion, and not the least of these has been the Russian attempt to bring about the\ndismantling of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.\nIt is a hopeful note that the Russians now are indicating a willingness to\ndiscuss a mutual reduction of forces in Europe. They had been insisting on a U.S.\nwithdrawal without a corresponding Soviet withdrawal from Eastern Europe.\nI am opposed to a unilateral reduction of U.S. forces in Europe, now or at\n(more)\n-3-\nany time in the future. Our objective should be a mutual reduction, and we must\nexpand and intensify our negotiations to that end.\nUnilateral reductions would weaken the possibility of getting the Soviet\nUnion to withdraw some of its forces from Eastern Europe.\nI welcome Leonid Brezhnev's initiative in this regard. This was a response\nto a NATO invitation to discuss mutual troop withdrawals. It will be on the agenda\nof the NATO meeting in June.\nThere is, of course, continuing talk of shifting a greater portion of the\nNATO expense burden to our NATO allies.\nIn view of our shockingly poor balance of payments situation, a greater\ncontribution on the part of our NATO allies is very much to be desired.\nOf the 300,000 U.S. troops in Europe, 210,000 are stationed in Germany.\nMaintaining this level of troops in Germany created a balance-of-payments outflow\nof $1 billion each year in 1969 and 1970.\nFortunately, the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany concluded\nan agreement designed to offset most of this balance-of-payments outflow during the\nperiod July 1, 1969 through June 30, 1971. We now must negotiate a new offset\nagreement to take effect when the present agreement expires.\nReturning to the matter of a unilateral reduction of U.S. forces in Europe,\nI believe this is a case of giving something away and getting nothing in return.\nThis is what is wrong with German Chancellor Willi Brandt's Eastern policy.\nBrandt's Eastern policy is like a supermarket hoping to come out ahead on\nsome other items by offering its customers so-called \"loss leaders.' The danger,\nof course, is that the customer will avail himself of the loss leader without buying\nanything else.\nAnd that is whar has happened in connection with Chancellor Brandt's Eastern\npolicy. The Soviet Union has signed a non-aggression pact with the Federal\nRepublic but has refused to cooperate on the questions of free and unhindered civil\naccess to Berlin, improvement of travel and communications for Berliners within and\naround Berlin, and the ending of discrimination against Berlin by the Soviet Union\nand some of its allies.\nThe German Federal Republic has kept its skirts clean by refusing to ratify\nthe treaties with the Soviet Union and Poland until such time as the Berlin questions\nare satisfactorily resolved.\nAs for East Germany, that Communist state has rejected Brandt's proposal of\n(more)\n4\ntwo states in a single German nation and offers of closer and more natural\ninter-German contacts.\nThe Federal Republic has remained a loyal member of NATO throughout all of\nBrandt's overtures to his Eastern neighbors, and our government has been in close\nconsultation with the government of the Federal Republic.\nWe have emphasized the four-power rights concerning Berlin where they needed\nto be emphasized. The round of exchanges on Berlin which began in March 1970 with\nthe Soviet Union are continuing.\nThe Nixon Administration, working with our NATO allies, seeks a European\ndetente. But we are realistic about it. Our thinking is not befogged with\neuphoric misconceptions concerning Soviet aims.\nAny permanent easing of tension in Europe must include progress in solving\nthe problem of a divided Germany.\nThe German national question is one for the German people to decide. But\nthere is no doubt in my mind that this question ultimately will be resolved only\nbecause the Federal Republic speaks from a position of strength--its secure position\nas a member of a strong NATO.\nAs President Nixon has said, \"Reducing the military confrontation in Europe\nis in the common interest of East and West. Our mutual objective should be to\ncreate a more stable military balance at lower levels and lower costs.\"\nBut while we seek to reduce the military confrontation, we must maintain the\nrelative strength of NATO and continue America's strong role in NATO.\nAmericans and Europeans need constantly to be reminded of the Soviet Union's\nwestward expansion at the close of World War II.\nIt was not until the Russians had brought Poland, East Germany, Hungary,\nBulgaria, Rumania and Czechoslovakia into the Communist camp that the free nations\nof Europe joined with the United States and Canada to form the NATO shield against\nfurther encroachments on the Atlantic world.\nThe 15-member North Atlantic Treaty Organization developed into an alliance\nthat rimmed Russia from Norway on the north to Turkey on the south. Thus did NATO\nstop the Soviets' territorial aggrandizement.\nNATO's principal value to world peace lies in its military strength. We must\nkeep NATO strong. We must not allow it to lapse into disrepair. Our contribution\nof U.S. forces to NATO is the basis of our allies' confidence in us. We cannot\nallow that confidence to waver.\n(more)\n-5-\nWhat should be the basis of NATO strategy in seeking to deter aggression?\nWe must have forces able to defend against the enemy without immediate resort\nto nuclear war. This would give us full flexibility in responding to any outbreak\nof hostilities. We must be capable of a strong and credible deployment of modern\nNATO conventional forces. America's guarantee of nuclear defense is, of course,\ncrucial. It should not, however, be the sole basis of Allied deterrence.\nAnd so we must remain vigilant and we must remain strong-while at the same\ntime we seek to weave the fabric of an enduring peace.\nEvery now and again I think of what I consider to be one of the greatest\nspeeches ever given by an American President.\nI have in mind President Eisenhower's Farewell Radio and Television Address\nto the American People, delivered Jan. 17, 1961.\nThat speech is most famous because of Ike's warning about the dangers of\nundue influence on the part of the military-industrial complex. But Ike that night\nsaid many other things far more important.\nAt one point, he said: \"Until the latest of our world conflicts, the United\nStates had no armament industry. American makers of plowshares could, with time\nand as required, make swords as well. But now we can no longer risk emergency\nimprovisation of national defense; we have been compelled to create a permanent\narmaments industry of vast proportions.'\nA little earlier in his address, Ike declared: \"A vital element in keeping\nthe peace is our military establishment. Our arms must be mighty, ready for instant\naction, so that no potential aggressor may be tempted to risk his own destruction.\"\nThis is my message to you tonight--that we avoid fear and hate but that we\nknow the enemy and be ever ready to meet him if and when that dire event is thrust\nupon us. It is only thus that we can fill the role of peacemakers in the kind of\nworld in which we live.\nI congratulate the Steuben Society because I know you are dedicated to those\nprinciples which have made America great.\nLet us all embrace those principles and move forward together in pursuit of\npeace and justice for peoples throughout the world.\n###\nAIMS AND PURPOSES OF THE\nconstitutional republic and for freedom i\nSTEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA\nthis nation. This struggle for American I\nFOREWORD\ntinues today as the people of our Nation\nLoyally to support the Constitution of the United\nthe Free World are called on to face a\nStates of America by advocating the proper applica-\nVoluntary membership organizations have eminent-\natheistic doctrine promulgated the WOI\ntion of its provisions and inculcating the principles\nly contributed to the progress of these United States\nCommunist subservients.\nunderlying true democratic government;\nof America. Each organization directing its efforts\nWhile man can now walk the moon -\ntoward certain worthwhile endeavors, in which it is\nTo quicken the spirit of sound Americanism and\nsatellite, atomic, and missile age, we live i\ninterested, makes for an overall effort for the welfare\nfoster a patriotic American spirit among all citizens;\nof alarms. With each new day, new anxiet\nof the entire country. We recognize the work of all\nbecloud the future of our country; yet\nTo aid in maintaining the independence and sover-\nsuch organizations.\nmust not panic. We must retain our sense\neignty of the United States of America and its free-\nThe American Way of Life is a blend of the cult-\nand not become defeatists. Ideas and won\ndom from all foreign influence;\nural gifts of the peoples of all lands.\ncalm appraisal must rise from citizens, re\nTo establish co-operation among its members in\nAs American citizens of German blood, we take\nparty, above discordant voices and un\nthe exercise of their civic duties and to encourage\njustifiable pride in the realization that all segments of\nopinions.\namong them an active participation in every phase\nAmerican life have been enriched by the contribu-\nTo remain a free nation we must rede\nof our national life;\ntions of men and women of our race in the arts, in the\nselves to the principles heretofore establishe\nsciences and in government.\nwho over the years gave us our manifest of 1\nTo promote the Welfare and enhance the happi-\nOur continuing contributions can best be assured\nThe Steuben Society of America works for\nness of its members and their fellowmen;\nand can only prosper in a climate of understanding\nplishment of these goals We urge all good\nand tolerance under a political system based on equal-\nparticipate in a rededication to the prir\nTo perpetuate itself as a patriotic and fraternal\nity, justice and freedom.\npatriotism and the love of country in prese\nvoluntary membership organization and to provide\nfor its government;\ngreat Republic.\nIt is to this objective that the program of the\nTo guard our political liberty by maintaining an\nSteuben Society of America is dedicated.\nFor over fifty years, alert, upright Amer\nzens of Germanic descent throughout Amer\nhonest equality of citizenship regardless of the birth,\nThis booklet is intended for those willing to share\nunited in the Steuben Society of America,\norigin or religion of any citizen;\nin a responsibility to your benefit to preserve and\nteer, patriotic national organization, to main\nperpetuate our precious freedoms and to conquer\nTo maintain the traditions of our country.\ngrams rendering worthwhile services on a T\napathy. This folder tells something of the Steuben\nState and Community level. The membershi;\nSociety of America, and is intended to serve as an ap-\nSociety and its conduct is such as to comm\npeal to join our ranks.\nrespect of all decent fellow citizens.\nThere is a great need for Americans to be well\nAs a conscientious citizen you should be aw\n)CIF\nversed in American history and what that history\nto secure and enjoy your rights and I\nO,\nmeans in terms of rights and freedom\nin order\nvour\nduties\ntowa\nand the per-\nyou\ncannot\naftor\nSTEU\nAMER\npetuation of this Republic of the people.\ncountry.\nThe first Continental Congress was formed to\nTHE\nunite the Colonies and to create a Continental Army\nAs an individual, your efforts are necessarily li\nwhich, in turn, helped to make possible the writing of\nited. As a member of an organized group much mc\nA\nworthwhile work can be done.\nthe greatest documents of freedom known to man-\n:VDED\nMAY\nGIGH\nkind, the Constitution of the United States and the\nWe would welcome the opportunity to enlist y\nBill of Rights.\nas a member. For further information, why not CO\ntact us?\nThe descendants of Americans of Germanic origin,\ntogether with the thousands of freedom loving\nSTEUBEN SOCIETY OF AMERICA\npeople who have come to us in the intervening"
}