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I appreciate the chance to kick off
this year's Public Service Recognition Week.
I want to take this opportunity to say, "Thank you,"
on behalf of our nation's leaders,
to you great soldiers and citizens,
for all you do for TRADOC, our Army, and for this nation.
We are living in challenging times.
Throughout our history, we've prevailed
through our common sense of purpose,
and because we've been blessed with people willing to answer
the call to serve something greater than themselves.
In December 1776, the Continental Army had
previously suffered several defeats in New York
and had been forced to retreat to Pennsylvania
by way of New Jersey.
Morale in the Army was low.
The birth of our nation was at stake.
George Washington, standing on the banks of the Delaware River,
proclaimed these words to his soldiers --
"These are times that try men's souls.
The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot
will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country;
but he that stands it now
deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.
Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered;
yet we have this consolation with us,
that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph."
Throughout our history, during peace and war,
there's been a competent and confident team
of civilians and military members --
a team that has refused to shrink from service to country.
This service comes with many sacrifices,
and our only guaranteed reward
is knowing that we gave more than we got.
John F. Kennedy's words are fitting to remember
as I close today -- "In the long history of the world,
only a few generations have been granted the role
of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger.
The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring
to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it --
and the glow from that fire can truly light the world.
With a good conscience our only sure reward,
with history the final judge of our deeds,
let us go forth to lead the land we love."
On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you again
for your service and the sacrifices you make.
Please take the time this week to thank
and celebrate the service of all of those in public service.