Richard Nixon: “I always had the very highest respect for their caliber.”

I am pleased that in this bill the Congress has expressed support for our objectives by authorizing $22.2 billion for military procurement purposes during fiscal year 1975.

Two weeks ago, I vowed to the American people that any appropriations bill substantially above my budget for fiscal year 1975 would be vetoed.

Our military forces deter potential aggressors and, together with those of our allies, serve to assure the continued security of the free world.

This, more than anything, is what I hope will be my legacy to you, to our country, as I leave the Presidency.