Richard Nixon: “My life on earth is finished, but I am content.”

I take this occasion once again to urge prompt and final action on the Trade Reform Act.

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.

I have never been a quitter. To leave office before my term is completed is abhorrent to every instinct in my body. But as president, I must put the interests of America first. Therefore, I shall resign the presidency effective at noon…

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