John Fitzgerald Kennedy: “It is only with deep regret that I accede to your request to retire from active duty.”

It symbolizes, I believe, this highway, first of all, the partnership between the Federal Government and the States, which is essential to the progress of all of our people.

I regard it as serious.

I congratulate you, the people of Delaware, the people of Maryland, and the people of the United States.

I think it would be unwise to attempt to negotiate it out here.