Richard Nixon: “I have pledged to hold the line on taxes in 1973 and throughout my second term as President, assuming cooperation from…”

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

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.

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.

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