Presidential Message on Victory Day for World War I
On November 11, 1918, after more than four grueling years, an armistice at last silenced the guns of the First World War. With enduring pride, we celebrate America’s pivotal role in winning this global conflict. The enemy was defeated with powerful weapons of land, sea, and sky and the unmatched valor of selfless heroes who now rest in eternal glory. Today, we recognize the brave hearts and noble souls who delivered this ultimate triumph in the Great War.
Time and time again throughout the glorious history of our Republic, American warriors have left behind their families and the comforts of home to serve a cause greater than themselves. The First World War summoned that devotion once more, as the conflict engulfed Europe in bloodshed and our allies fought for their survival. For nearly three years, America sought peace and remained apart from the carnage of the Old World. But our patience was met with mounting provocation. Our ships were sunk, our citizens were slain on the high seas, and our adversaries schemed to bring the war to our own doorstep. When the war reached its decisive hour, America answered. Two million doughboys crossed the Atlantic, shattered the stalemate of the trenches from Belleau Wood to the Meuse-Argonne, and saved Western civilization from total destruction.
In the Great War, more than 320,000 American Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines suffered casualties and gave everything they had for love of country and the righteous cause of freedom. They changed the course of the world, and we are forever indebted for their sacrifice. In the generations since, Americans in uniform have waged similarly just wars on foreign soil, enduring unimaginable challenges and hardship to defeat evil regimes, communism, and radical terrorists that threaten our way of life. It is our sacred duty to remember that our liberty was purchased at great cost by the precious blood and treasure of America’s sons and daughters and is safeguarded every day by exceptional patriots who willingly serve in the profession of arms.
Our military is the envy of the world because of the grit, determination, and professionalism of all who have worn our Nation’s cloth. My Administration has restored the pride, exceptionalism, and winning spirit of our fighting force, and we stand ready, anytime and anywhere, to vanquish and annihilate any foe so that future generations may experience the hope and promise of the American Dream.
Our Service members have earned the respect of a grateful Nation for keeping us safe, sovereign, prosperous, and free. On Victory Day for World War I, we salute the supreme devotion and immeasurable patriotism of the valiant heroes who gave their all to secure the cause of peace.