03/25/1951
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu...
"The project is of great importance to our national security and our economic growth."
"We should join in constructing the seaway, first, because it is important to our national security."
"It has been shown over and over again that the cost of the relatively small amount of materials and manpower needed for this project will be fully repaid in tolls and power receipts; and, in addition,..."
"I strongly recommend, therefore, that the Congress promptly enact legislation to carry out the 1941 Agreement for joint completion of the St. Lawrence seaway and power project."