Harry Truman: “We cannot live isolated in relative wealth and abundance.”

The experience of this early period of public action showed that constant vigilance and competent professional guidance are essential to prevent irreparable losses.

There is hereby established a medal to be known as the National Security Medal with accompanying ribbons and appurtenances.

They should be strong enough to see that unified multiple-purpose development is planned for, and works operated harmoniously in each basin-wide comprehensive system.

The people of the United States have a very great asset in this force.