The work in behalf of children is so intimately a part of the life of the people that its control and direction need to be kept very close to them.

There is an especial reason for wishing to speak to this first of many State and regional groups who will carry forward the work of the White House Conference.

He is equally to be congratulated upon the opportunity of such a profitable and congenial association with yourself in your increasingly important field of activity.

express my cordial greetings to the Indiana Conference on Child Health and Protection

The conclusions of that Conference, so far as they propose immediately practical measures in behalf of childhood, depend for their application chiefly upon the States and the local communities.

I congratulate you cordially upon acquiring the services of my long time friend and co-laborer, George Akerson, whose ability, personality and loyalty I hold in the highest esteem.

I regret that she has not lived to see you receive this medal.

I look forward with high anticipation to the success of your Conference.

Her life was a fine example of the fortitude of our American women.

Please accept my congratulations, and the congratulations of the American people.

The Federal Government can help with information and research, and toward the creation of administrative agencies and the funds to assist in support of them, but they rest primarily with States and counties, cooperating often with private…