John Kennedy actually said...

"Even though a good many years have passed since most of them left, they still remain and retain the strongest sentiments of affection for this country."

"I said, 'Well, you say that about every county.' And he said, 'No, this is true about this county.'"

"You send us home covered with gifts which we can barely carry, but most of all you send us home with the warmest memories of you and of your country."

"So I carry with me as I go the warmest sentiments of appreciation to all of you."