Lyndon Johnson

I was deeply distressed to learn of the tragic loss of life caused by the earthquakes in Sicily.

All Americans join me in offering our heartfelt sympathy to you and the people of Sicily.

I am asking Ambassador Reinhardt to keep in close touch with the Italian authorities to determine in what way we can be of assistance in this sad moment.

This order supersedes Executive Order No. 10148 of August 5, 1950.

I am confident, however, that with ingenuity and resolve we can put into effect the arrangements necessary to carry on the economic aid program, which is vital to our interests and to the well-being of so many people in developing…

I think all Americans ought to want to help some.

In the current situation, however, we cannot rest on this record.

But most of all, I am proud of you men who, out of the pitiful earnings that you get, and the modicum pay that is in your envelope, still think enough of your country not only to give your life for it but to invest some of your dollars in…

I think one thing you men ought to know is that America's prosperity depends on the soundness of the American dollar.

One of the things I am proudest of is the men who do the most fighting do the most financing, too.

You know, as our Nation is challenged--and it is on many fronts, many times each year--we have to call upon all of our people to make their contribution in different ways.

I therefore request that you take steps to reduce your expenditures overseas in calendar 1968 by a minimum of $100 million below what they were in 1967.

I recently outlined a broad program to correct the balance of payments deficit.

This is the Minuteman Flag.

I know that the additional measures called for will be difficult, coming on top of the very substantial efforts of the last few years.

Today for the first time we are awarding these Minuteman Flags to battlefield units.

I wanted to come and salute the 12th Air Force, to thank you, to congratulate you, and to express my appreciation to all the people who support this mission.

We restated our dedication to the establishment of a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.

The principles set forth constituted an equitable basis for a settlement.

We declared our firm determination to make every effort to increase the broad area of understanding.

The Prime Minister's visit advanced this objective.

So, Mr. Prime Minister and Mrs. Eshkol, we extend to you this afternoon the hand of welcome to this land.

Welcome to our family table.

Thank all of you so much.

To keep peace forever among men.