MEMORIAL DAY SPEECH I look forward to a great future for America - a future in which our country will match

its military strength with moral restraint, its wealth with our wisdom, its power with our purpose. I look forward to an America which commands respect throughout the world not only for its strength but for its civilization as well. And I look forward to a world which will be safe not only for democracy and diversity but also for personal distinction. These are quotes from John F. Kennedy during his speech at Amherst College in 1963. Kennedy had high expectations for the future citizens of these United States, as do I. The way we can obtain these qualities Kennedy describes, moral restraint, wisdom, purpose, and strength, is through education. Not everyone is so privileged, as to have an education like we have here in the United States. Think of the bigger picture. There are so many communities all over the world where children are not receiving an education whether it be over academia or the moral principles that define the word citizenship. The future of our community is bright. We are very fortunate in our community to have many programs where children are taught the value of character and citizenship. We have programs like 4-H, Lions club, Waterloo Leos, youth groups, and so many more. Kids are growing up with wonderful examples. On the contrary, there are also a lot of kids who do not have an admirable role model. They do not know what it means to be a leader, or to be helpful. And they never will unless someone is willing to teach them. People like you, people like me. Veterans who have shown strength and wisdom in times of distress. Parents who have shown

compassion and love. Friends who are supportive and encouraging. These are the people building the future of America. And although these people are the faces of America, it is built not by their reputation or popularity. Its comprised of sacrifices, dedication, and perseverance. Sacrifices made by military men and women every day. Giving up their families, and going to war just to keep the rest of us feeling safe. Men and women even sacrifice their lives. Some call it the ultimate sacrifice. These are the people who make me want to say that Im proud to be an American. Memorial Day is a time of remembrance for those who have lost their lives. And while its important to remember those people, we must remember that we are the future of America. We are the ones that decide. We will match Americas military strength with our moral restraint. We will match Americas wealth with our wisdom. We will match Americas power with our purpose. We will command respect throughout the world. And it will be great.