speeches
Armed Forces Day
Ambassador William R. Timken, Jr.
Berlin
May 17, 2006
I am delighted to welcome all of you to this third Armed Forces Day celebration in Berlin. I will leave it to Colonel Zedler to specifically thank the sponsors and welcome all the distinguished guests.
Let me start my remarks by mentioning that in the past, when U.S. forces were stationed in Berlin, this day was always celebrated. After the departure of U.S. Forces-Berlin in the early 1990's, we had a 10-year break with no Armed Forces Day in Berlin.
I am glad to see that we are again taking the opportunity here at the historical Allied Museum to express our thanks to the U.S. service member -- Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines.
I am also glad that we are doing this in the city of Berlin, a city that is so dear and close to us. This city and our armed forces have a special bond. We have seen many troubled and happy times together. I need only to reflect on the airlift, the Berlin Wall and the happy German reunification.
Today is the day we recognize the dedication and sacrifice of our armed forces for the peace, security and freedom they help us maintain, not only in the United States of America, but throughout the world.
A thank you is also in order to all service members of our allies and friends that stand with us to preserve democracy and freedom around the world -- at often a heavy price, but one so necessary for a free world.
Before turning this over to Colonel Zedler, who started this event three years ago, I want to wish you all a great time and good music from the Air Force band. Enjoy. Thank you.
