speeches
15th Annual USO Europe Service Salute
Ambassador William R. Timken, Jr.
September 30, 2006
As prepared for delivery.
Minister President Koch, Mr. Moll, General Ward, General Lather,
It is a pleasure and a great privilege to participate in the 15th annual combined Service Salute. This program is an example of our strong German-American partnership. It is a partnership that includes military, political and business leaders. In saluting junior enlisted members, this program also sets the course for the future.
So, a word to the “best of the best.” It is important that your generation continue to work together in a spirit of consultation and cooperation, identifying and developing multiple points of positive connection between people to ensure that we not lose sight of our common goals.
The German-American partnership was the success story of the 20th century. It is symbolic of the transatlantic values that underline our commitment to promote democracy and freedom, bring peace to troubled regions, and foster international prosperity. The post-9/11 world of the 21st century poses challenges about whether freedom can stand and grow throughout the world. Global challenges require a level of leadership that only a true transatlantic partnership can provide.
That will require political and military leadership but also personal relationships.
The USO plays an important role in cementing those kinds of personal contacts between the American military and our German hosts. The mission of the USO is to bring a touch of home to Americans in distant places. Here in Germany, the USO goes beyond that. It has been a “bridge” between the U.S. Forces and Germany. The USO also proudly supports NATO troops particularly as they deploy and redeploy, as well as during port visits.
By offering Newcomer Orientation Tours and other intercultural programs such as language and cooking classes, the USO provides service members the opportunity to learn about their host nation and enables them to experience the “best of both worlds” during their tours in Europe.
In the last 60 years, over 15 million GIs and their dependents have served and lived in Germany. They have learned about German culture and society. They have been fine ambassadors for the United States. Our German friends have been outstanding hosts.
Thousands of lasting personal friendships between Germans and Americans were born. This is an extraordinary story, unparalleled to any other experience that Americans have had with a culture beyond their shores. Ours is truly a unique relationship of friendship and support, unlike any other in the history of our two nations. Let’s all make sure that this proud record is carried forward.
