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

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

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

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 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.

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…

This is the Minuteman Flag.

I think all Americans ought to want to help some.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

The Prime Minister's visit advanced this objective.

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

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

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

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

To keep peace forever among men.

And we will try to extend the peace that is in our hearts--extend it to all men who are willing to share our partnership of good faith and good purpose.

We meet here in peace, and we will talk in peace.