On Site Report: Rumsfeld Addresses Joint Services Open House

On Site Report: Rumsfeld Addresses Joint Services Open House
Andrews Air Force Base, MD (Friday, 17 May)

Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Richard Myers, USAF, held the opening ceremonies for the Joint Service Open House at Andrews Air Force Base. As personnel from the Army, Marine, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard stood in formation behind him, General Myers began by calling upon all Americans to remember our men and women who are fighting overseas. General Myers proudly proclaimed that, “Our men and women in uniform do it all!” And his sentiments were not missed by those attending when he stated that our armed services are well trained and well led.

To the thousands of Department of Defense personnel and their guests, Secretary Rumsfeld began his remarks by welcoming all and reminding everyone that Saturday marked the 53rd Annual Armed Forces Day. Keeping to a theme for transforming the military, he stated that joint operations would be the key to our military success throughout the 21st century and that “the United States can and will adapt to meet any challenge to peace and freedom.”

Secretary Rumsfeld emphasized the pledge made by President Bush shortly after the 9-11 terrorist attacks, “We will not waver, we will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail.” He added that, “I know that the promise the President made is in very good hands.” “You are America’s best.” Secretary Rumsfeld closed by thanking the military and their families for all the sacrifices they have made to keep our country free.

In a released message, Secretary Rumsfeld stated, “On Armed Forces Day 2002, the American people express their thanks to all soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen for your continuing role in securing the blessings of liberty for all of us. Whether on tarmacs or targeting computers, flight decks or foot patrols, you are patriots all, and the Nation is exceptionally grateful for your dedicated and noble service.”

General Myers stated, “Many of you will be unable to attend the ceremonies acknowledging your service - - because you are on duty around the Nation and the world, defending America's interests and fighting the terrorists who threaten to destroy our way of life. Be assured that the people of the United States recognize and appreciate your sacrifice. You continue to demonstrate the very best our Nation has to offer. The Joint Chiefs of Staff and I join all Americans in paying tribute to you and your families. May God bless our country and all of you who serve her.”

For those of you who care as deeply as I do about our men and women in uniform, don’t let your participation end with a post here. The Free Republic Network is involved in two initiatives in support of our armed forces.

America Remembers - Don’t let another Memorial Day pass without taking a moment to remember our fallen heroes.

Veterans for Constitutional Restoration (VetsCoR) has teamed up with the Free Republic Network to commemorate the many sacrifices made by the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their families. Click HERE for more information. Also, please visit these threads: "AMERICA REMEMBERS": VetsCoR/FRN Memorial Day Project, "AMERICA REMEMBERS" Project: National Cemeteries and VA Medical Facilities Locator, and "AMERICA REMEMBERS": Sample Promotion Letter.

Don’t forget to write your Senators and Representatives and the President in support S.1785 for the establishment of May as the permanent commemorative month for Veterans. For more information on this movement, please visit the NMAM site.

And also telling them while waving flags is nice...start getting the troops the gear they need to survive and win... And give the VA Medical Centers the money they need to treat combat related injuries instead of contiunally slashing the VAs budget...which hasnt changed since Clinton or Daddy Bush...

Gals,

I just had to bring this poster's thread to your attention. I don't remember such well researched and well-linked threads on FR in a long, long time.

Perhaps a model to recommend to newbies? This is truly original reporting.

Great Job!

Regards,

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