Lighting of the Christmas Tree at Checkpoint Charlie

Mrs. Hildebrandt, Ambassador Murphy and family

Berlin, November 29, 2011
Ambassador Philip D. Murphy

Fifty years ago, President John F. Kennedy sent a Christmas message to the people of Berlin.  Not only at Christmas, but every day as long as a Wall separated West and East, he said, West Berlin would be a beacon of light and hope for those seeking freedom.  That year and every year during the Cold War, the Christmas trees that stood here at Checkpoint Charlie and at various other points along the wall that so cruelly divided this city had indeed a special meaning for people of all ages, no matter where they lived.  Today the traces of that wall have almost been erased.  The transformation of Berlin is truly amazing.  For Americans, the fall of the Wall and the unification of Berlin are symbols of the commitment to freedom, peace and prosperity that our two countries share. 

Mrs. Hildebrandt, the museum to which your husband was so committed and to which he devoted so much of his life and energies helps younger generations understand this important chapter in the defense of our common values.  That’s why it was one of the first places my wife Tammy and I brought our children when we arrived in Berlin in August 2009. Two of our four children are with us today and I am sure that for all of us, turning on the Checkpoint Charlie Christmas Tree will be one of our special Berlin memories.  For our youngest son, Sam, but especially for our very own Charlie Murphy.  He is one Charlie who is extremely proud to do the honors here at Checkpoint Charlie this evening.  Charlie has got a phenomenal memory but this is one history lesson that goes beyond facts and dates.  This is what Berlin and this is what Christmas is all about. 

On behalf of the staff of the Embassy, we wish a happy and joyous holiday season to all Berliners.  May the peace and goodwill of the season fill every heart and warm every home.

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