05/18/1898
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu...
"Your splendid command has endured not only the hardships and sacrifices incident to campaign and battle, but in stress of heat and weather has triumphed over obstacles which would have overcome men le..."
"May the Father of Mercies protect and comfort them."
"One and all have displayed the most conspicuous gallantry and earned the gratitude of the nation."
"All ports and places in Cuba which may be in the actual possession of our land and naval forces will be opened to the commerce of all neutral nations, as well as our own, in articles not contraband of..."