Remarks by Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge at Blinded American Veterans' Foundation Congressional Awards

Release Date: 06/15/04 00:00:00

Washington, D.C.
19th Annual Congressional Awards Reception
June 15, 2004
(Remarks as Prepared)

Thank you and congratulations to the award winners.  I am proud to have served in Vietnam with John and so many of you, and I am pleased to be with all of you today.  John, I have heard the rumors that Ann Landers has been looking over her shoulder.  Sergeant Shaft is giving her some stiff competition!

During the past couple of weeks, we have heard stories of incredible courage, sacrifice and service.  The dedication of the WWII Memorial; the sixtieth anniversary of the D-Day invasion; and the passing of a beloved Commander-in-Chief have rekindled the flame of patriotism that resides in all Americans.  

Patriotism for a country whose noble and generous spirit is rooted in service to others and service to freedom’s cause.  

Our history is marked by a long line of patriots who have dedicated their lives to this glorious goal.  Patriots who have endured the hardships of war, yet never faltered.  Patriots who have endured injury and loss, yet never ceased to persevere in their commitment to freedom.  And along the way, it is our veterans who have willingly shouldered the burden of keeping our nation strong, secure, and free.  

The traits our veterans and current soldiers share are the values we have celebrated the past few weeks.  Service to country.  Sacrifice for others.  Courage in the face of the unknown.  

Those served by the Blinded American Veterans Foundation are the same soldiers who climbed the cliffs at Normandy, patrolled jungles in Vietnam, and endured the blistering desert sun in Iraq.  

The Blinded American Veterans Foundation’s goal to help these brave veterans through increased research, rehabilitation and re-employment echoes the national character that seeks to help those in need.  

By their continued efforts to assist fellow veterans, John and everyone helping the BAVF personify that simple, yet true motto known to all Marines, and known to the world--Semper Fidelis.  Always Faithful. Faithful to our ideals.  Faithful to our duty.  Faithful to our Nation.  And faithful to each other.

As we face an enemy fueled by hate and bent on the destruction of our ideals and way of life, now more than ever all Americans can draw inspiration from the virtues and heroic deeds of our veterans.  

For this is a war not only fought by soldiers in far-away places like Afghanistan and Iraq, but also by mayors, school teachers, business leaders, and neighbors.  

Our work to secure the homeland is not just the mission of one Department.  It is a responsibility in which we all share.  

More than anything, homeland security is about the integration of a nation, and nations – state and local governments, communities, businesses, organizations and citizens – all coming together around a shared goal of protecting our nation and safeguarding our people from those who would seek to do us harm.  

And as we rise to meet the great challenge of our times, we do so bolstered by our history of patriotism and guided by the example of steadfast commitment to duty and liberty shown by all who have worn our country’s uniform.    

I want to thank The Blinded American Veterans Foundation and all of you whose selfless efforts have helped ensure that our veterans -- those who sacrificed comfort for pain; those who lost limbs so that others would walk upon the soil of freedom; those who lost sight so others would see liberty; and those who lost lives so others could live theirs in peace – receive not only the gratitude, but also the care, of a grateful nation.

The cause of freedom you have worked so hard to uphold is one that we will not forsake.  We will press on in the face of our enemies and ensure that the blessings of liberty are protected and preserved for this and future generations to come.

Thank you and God Bless America.

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