Remarks on Presenting
the Presidential Citizen's Medal to Brooke Astor
The President. Well, Brooke and ladies
and gentlemen, good afternoon, and welcome to the White House. We've gathered
here today to bestow an honor upon a woman we all know and admire: Brooke
Astor. I'll read a citation in just a moment, but that citation is awfully
official sounding, and I'd like to add a personal note. You see, Brooke is a
friend of ours.
There's
no way a document can capture her wit, her warmth, no way express her energy
and her extraordinary vitality. And, Brooke, there's just no way that Nancy and
I can ever thank you enough for all the wonderful moments that you've given us.
And now you're here with me
at the podium, and your country wishes to honor you. And therefore, I shall
read a citation for the Citizen's Medal:
``Her
philanthropies have extended from Carnegie Hall to the Bronx Zoo. She has made
the New York Public Library her special project, overseeing the renaissance of
that venerable and magnificent institution. She has written two volumes of
autobiography and a number of splendid, witty novels. And to all who knew her,
she's a joy. And if Brooke Astor feels that she has become a public monument,
it is a credit to the public for making her one.''
Ms.
Astor. That's it?
The President. And
now, yes, the presentation of the Citizen's Medal.
Ms.
Astor. Oh, thank you, Mr. President. I'm overcome.
The President. Well, congratulations,
and God bless you.
Ms.
Astor. Mr. President, when can I wear this?
Mrs.
Reagan. Anytime.
Ms.
Astor. Do I wear it at a big party and pin it on?
The President. Yes, you can. It's
yours.
Ms.
Astor. That isn't showing off?
The President. No, it's yours. You've
earned and deserve it. [Laughter]
Ms.
Astor. Thank you so much.
The President. And there's a little
button that shows, if you choose, that you are the
possessor of that.
Ms.
Astor. There's the button, yes.
Mrs.
Reagan. Wear it anytime.
The President. All
right.
Ms.
Astor. Thank you so much for this.
The President. And now we shall all
adjourn to the Red Room, which is right next door. Gorbachev was very happy
with it. [Laughter]
Note: The President
spoke at