Gerald R. Ford

“ In this, our Nation's 200th year, Memorial Day has special significance. As we honor those who gave their lives that our experiment with liberty might succeed, we can be proud of what America has accomplished. We are-at peace. Our Nation and our way of life endure. The sacrifices of 200 years have preserved both individual freedom and national unity. ”

“ Other nations have risen to great heights only to weaken in their resolve. We must not repeat their error. We must remain strong in our defense and steadfast in our resolve to uphold the principles with which we began two centuries ago.
In accord with the request of the Congress, by joint resolution of May 11, 1950 (64 Stat. 158) , let us especially pray on Memorial Day that our continued resolve and our eternal vigilance will bring lasting peace to peoples yearning for peace, and that our honored dead shall not have died in vain. ”