Political Quotes

On the recordOctober 3, 2023
on a separate issue, I would like to address the announced retirement of U.S. GEN Mark Milley. On January 17, 1961, 3 days before he was to leave office, President Dwight Eisenhower addressed the American people. His political farewell to the Nation surprised a lot of people. They expected him to give the ``old soldier's speech,'' like Douglas McArthur. Instead, Eisenhower surprised many by issuing a strong warning about the dangers of the ``military-industrial complex.'' He described that complex as a ``conjunction of an immense military establishment and a large arms industry'' and ``[w]e must not fail to comprehend its grave implications'' of that alliance. His words were a warning to his successors of one of the many dangers they could face in the coming years. The words are often quoted because they were so surprising. I thought of President Eisenhower's warning just last Friday when I heard the parting words of another military leader who served our Nation with wisdom, courage, and unwavering devotion--GEN Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In his farewell address, General Milley spoke of those in uniform who have died defending our freedoms, of the many who have shed blood and sacrificed limbs in that cause, and of brokenhearted Gold Star families who have lost loved ones. Then he said that the U.S.…
Said by
Dick Durbin
Democratic · Illinois
Source
govinfo.gov
Oct 3, 2023

Share

More from Dick Durbin

Aug 18, 2026

That’s why we’ve had an ongoing battle here in Washington for years against the for-profit college and university industry.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 15, 2026

Our state’s top-notch rail system keeps our economy moving while allowing Illinoisans to travel from Chicago to Carbondale.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 18, 2026

The Trump administration has not provided transparency into the use of federal funds for the East Wing project, and they have limited congressional oversight, meaningful public input, and adherence to established federal processes.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 15, 2026

Investing in our airports is laying the foundation for increased connectivity and reliability.

duckworth.senate.gov

Other voices in this conversation