Speech of Vice President Harry S. Truman, Annual Passover Service, Jewish Welfare Board

TO BE RELEASED ON delivery SPEECH OF THE HONORABLE HARRY S. TRUMAN VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES ANNUAL PASSOVER SERVICE NATIONAL JEWISH WELFARE BOARD BROADCAST TO THE JEWISH MEN AND WOMEN IN THE ARMED FORCES FROM WASHINGTON, D.C. Columbia Broadcasting System Broadcast time 5:00 to 5:30 PM E.W.T. March 26, 1945 Since biblical times, people of the Jewish faith have made great contributions to the moral code of mankind. From the revelation of the Ten Commandments by Moses to the philosophical teachings of modern Jewish scholars, there has been a constant search for a better way of life for the benefit of all. It was the Hebrews who first fought the worship of pagan idols in the western world and who preached eternal faith in one God -- the God in whom we all put our trust. This evening, as the Passover begins, all God-fearing people can well join with those of Jewish faith to thank the Almighty for the many blessings received. Already millions of people, recently held in bondage in Europe, Asia and Africa, have been liberated by the forces of freedom. Although this tragic world-wide conflict still continues to demand a heavy toll in lives and wealth, gratifying progress has been made toward the all-essential goal --- complete victory! In view of the evil objectives of our enemies, it is especially fortunate that righteousness will triumph. Today the Angel of Death is again passing over the homes of modern tyrants. If the dignity of every man is preserved, the moral principles, for which the United Nations fight, must survive. Ultimately all people must be led out of bondage. Having suffered persecution for centuries, the Jewish people steadfastly adhered to their ancient faith -- the faith which gave them courage and fortitude to withstand man's inhumanity to man. Furthermore, the Jews were frequently in the vanguard of the fight to aid other oppressed minorities. All who insist upon fighting for ideals, be they religious or political, must suffer at some time from the intolerance and bigotry of bitter opponents. Yet nothing of lasting value can be achieved or retained without paying a price in one form or another. FRUMAN NARA