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World War II Memorial

Individual Honor, National Character

President George W. Bush salutes Navajo Code Talkers during a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol July 26, 2001. .In war, using their native language, they relayed secret messages that turned the course of battle. At home, they carried for decades the secret of their heroism,. said the President who presented medals to 21 Native Americans who served during World War II. World War II Filipino-American veterans attend the State Arrival Ceremony for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines on the South Lawn May 19, 2003. Presidents Bush and Arroyo in a joint statement reviewed with pride the contributions made by Philippine World War II veterans who gave so much in defense of freedom. During Veterans Day ceremonies held at the Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 11, 2003, a veteran salutes during President Bush.s remarks. "We observe Veterans Day on an anniversary -- not of a great battle or of the beginning of a war, but of a day when war ended and our nation was again at peace," said the President. "Ever since the Armistice of November the 11th, 1918, this has been a day to remember our debt to all who have worn the uniform of the United States."
"The willingness of America's veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude., we celebrate and honor the patriots who have fought to protect the democratic ideals that are the foundation of our country. said President Bush in his remarks at the Arlington National Cemetery on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2003. Vice President Dick Cheney greets veterans after addressing the Veterans of Foreign Wars 103rd National Convention in Nashville, Tenn., Aug. 26, 2002. .In the military, you devoted yourselves to a cause above self-interest, served with a firm sense of duty and developed personal standards that make you an example for your families and your fellow citizens. The daughter of an Army Air Corpsman described growing up with her father, and the values she learned from him without even knowing it. As she recalls, .Honesty, integrity, hard work, personal responsibility, and perseverance were all around me and I absorbed them almost imperceptibly.. Our veterans have had a similar effect on the entire nation.. said the Vice President in his remarks. A veteran waves an American flag during President Bush's address to members of the Florida National Guard, veterans and retired members of the military at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Fla., March 26, 2003. "I want to thank you all for your service, for setting such a clear example for future generations of those who wear our uniform. I think you'll agree that our military is not letting you down when it comes to upholding the great tradition of peace through strength.. said the President"