Richard Nixon: “And, Mr. President, finally, I should like in the presence of your people to pay a tribute to you.”

It is regrettable that the Congress has seen fit to add to a bill of such importance to our national security a rider adversely affecting the constitutional separation of powers.

As a result of these efforts, I am confident that the world is a safer place today, not only for the people of America but for the people of all nations, and that all of our children have a better chance than before of living in peace…

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

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.