Any further reductions in my request would deal a serious setback to our overall defense buildup and would have adverse foreign policy consequences.

It is with deep regret that I accept your resignation as Deputy Secretary of Defense effective December 31, 1982.

I herewith report 5 new deferrals of fiscal year 1983 funds totaling $624,650,000.

I am convinced that Peacekeeper is the right missile and that now is the right time.

Benny Goodman will always be known to Americans and the world as the King of Swing.

You've put forward concrete proposals for a comprehensive peace throughout your region.

Our ties with the countries of the Caribbean Basin are very close.

What we strive for is a hemisphere where the future is determined not by bullets but by ballots.

I call on all states in this region to join in this process of genuine, peaceful reconciliation.

The only real route to peace, to lasting peace, is the well-chartered course of Costa Rica—commitment to democracy, rejection of extremism and the force of arms, and respect for human rights and the rule of law.

The difficulties in the Caribbean Basin may seem overwhelming, but just as tropical storms give way to sunshine and calmer seas, economic despair will give way to optimism if people have the prospect to build a better life in freedom.

Your transition to democracy answered those who argue that freedom is a luxury that struggling countries cannot afford.