But when we pay homage to the hardy, grim, resolute men who, with incredible toil and risk, laid deep the foundations of the civilization that we inherit, let us steadily remember that the only homage that counts is the homage of deeds—not merely of words.
While honoring the pioneers, this emphasizes that true respect for their legacy lies in emulating their actions, not just offering verbal praise.
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More from Teddy Roosevelt
The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood.
Our country—this great Republic—means nothing unless it means the triumph of a real democracy, the triumph of popular government, and, in the long run, of an economic system under which each man shall be guaranteed the opportunity to show…
I wish to say that the Progressive Party is making its appeal to all our fellow citizens without any regard to their creed or to their birthplace.
I speak of the men of the past partly that they may be honored by our praise of them, but more that they may serve as examples for the future.
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