Statement on Columbus Day
10/11/1942
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu...
The logic of events and our clear and pressing national interest must override our old party controversies.
It is fruitless to try to place the blame for this situation on one particular Nation or on another.
I hereby direct the Secretary of the Navy to terminate and relinquish, on or before the fifteenth day following the date...
This is our chance to serve those who serve us.