speeches by amb. coats

Wuerzburg
January 30, 2004


General Bell,
General Batiste,
Soldiers of the 1st ID,
Spouses,
Family,
German Guests and Friends,

It is a privilege to participate in this deployment ceremony.

Minister President Stoiber, it is an honor to have you with us here today. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Bavaria for their support of the soldiers of the 1st Infantry division and their families – and for all the American military who have lived and worked in Germany since the end of World War II. Since then, more than 13 million American soldiers and their dependants have lived in Germany. They have fond and lasting memories of their time here and the friendships they made. It is truly a unique relationship of friendship and support, unlike any other in the history of our two nations.

Soldiers of the BIG RED ONE, you are the folks I am especially pleased to see today.

The Big Red One has a proud history. You are following in the honorable footsteps of the members of the 1st Infantry Division that have served before you -- including World War I, World War II, Viet Nam, Desert Storm, Bosnia, and Kosovo, and now in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The first war of the 21st century began on September 11th, 2001. On that day, America awakened to new dangers and accepted new responsibilities. The combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq showed the power and precision of America's modern military. Important work goes on. The mission going forward is still difficult, and the enemy is still dangerous. But the United States Military is doing a fantastic job under complicated circumstances to help ensure that the people of Iraq and Afghanistan can live in peace and freedom while they rebuild their country.

I can assure you, on behalf of the President and all Americans: our country has confidence in your abilities, we are certain of your success, and we are grateful for your brave service.

Members of our military depend, above all else, on the support of their families -- and I want to thank them, especially the family members who are with us today. America is proud of each and every one of our military families.

Minister Stoiber, let me thank you for the assurances your government has offered the family members left behind. We were very pleased when last December, representatives of the Bavarian government told us that they were aware of the upcoming deployment and would do everything in their power to support the community. We are thankful to you and all Germans who support our soldiers and their families in this difficult time.

And so, ss you say goodbye to your families and prepare for the year ahead, please remember that a grateful nation prays for your safety, supports your work and waits to embrace you upon your return. We are grateful for your service, to our nation and to the cause of freedom. On behalf of the President, and all Americans, we thank you for putting DUTY FIRST!

God bless you and your families. And God bless America.