Remarks at the
Dedication Ceremony for the Army and Navy Club
Well,
reverend clergy, General Hittle, General Dawson,
Charles Graham, and ladies and gentlemen: In the old days, I'm told, the Army
and Navy Club often invited their neighbor, the President, to all their
parties. I've also heard that Benjamin Harrison and Grover Cleveland walked
over for a toddy or two. Oh, for the good old days.
[Laughter] If I'd known that the club was this beautiful, Nancy and I would
have stopped by long ago, and we would even walk, if the Secret Service would
let us.
Well,
the word for today is: Congratulations! You've put together a beautiful
building and an historic treasure. I'm amazed at your outstanding collection of
art, particularly the De Welden sculptures. I've
always wondered where old generals and admirals went when they ``just faded
away.'' And now I know.
But
nothing is more important than keeping alive the gallant tradition of our armed
services -- a tradition that adds up to a word not just for today but for all
time: patriotism. As you know, I've visited our men and women in the armed
services and their families all around the world -- from Camp Liberty Bell on
the demilitarized zone in
So,
I've got a report to bring you from the front. I've talked to admirals and
generals alike, on bases from
I
was honored when you invited me to dedicate your new clubhouse, as the Army and
Navy Club begins its second century. General Hittle assures me that I'm among friends. Then, I knew that
already. No group of men and women has given more steadfast support to the
Commander in Chief, no matter what his name was, no matter what party he represented.
And I know I'll never forget the support that you've given me during some of my
toughest hours as President. And so, I salute you not only for the help you've
given me over the past 7 years but for the help your club has given my
predecessors and will give my successors for generations to come.
Upstairs
I couldn't help noticing the busts of President Eisenhower and President
Truman, but when I saw that picture of General ``Hap'' Arnold standing in front
of a B - 17, I had to resist the urge to snap to attention. You know, General
Arnold was my boss some 40 years ago, and he ran a tough Air Force. Just ask
the fellows on the other side.
General
Hittle told me, too, that Gary Cooper filmed many of
the scenes of ``The Billy Mitchell Court Martial'' right here at the club. But
he says that the members wouldn't let the cameras in until after
In
December of 1885, according to your records, after the founders signed the
papers of incorporation, they retired to a warm room to drink a toast: ``To the club.'' I'd like to repeat that salute with you
today. For a century, the Army and Navy Club has
played an important role in the life of the Republic. May the second century
eclipse the first. And so, ladies and gentlemen, a
salute: ``To the club.'' Thank you.
Note: The President
spoke at