Harry Truman: “When catastrophe strikes, the Red Cross moves with the precision of a well-trained army to bring order out of chaos.”

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.

I have great faith and confidence in our civil servants.

We have learned that the mark of a well-managed land lies in the care a Nation gives to its rivers.