Jimmy Carter

“ The eight who gave their lives while attempting to free their fellow Americans from an illegal and intolerable captivity were such individuals. They knew the price that freedom can demand, and they were prepared to pay it. They laid down their lives for their countrymen, for their Nation's honor, and for the principles of justice and civilization. We mourn their loss; we admire their courage ”

“ At a time when the delicate, age-old patterns of diplomatic communication that help maintain the peace of the world are under direct attack, we have a great need of men and women ready to make the sacrifices that freedom and security require. ”

“ By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
The names of the eight American servicemen who died in a mission of rescue in Iran will forever stand among the names of heroes. They were valiant men. They knew the danger of the task for which they had volunteered, and they were willing to confront that danger because they wished to right a terrible wrong. ”