I GRIEVE with you in the death of your son.

We labor towards the day when the cause of brotherhood may prevail, and the violence that sometimes scars the face of America may be ended.

We cannot commit ourselves, for the prolonged period required by this bill, to delay action necessary to meet the realities of the troubled world in which we live.

By the Constitution, the executive power is vested in the President.

The power of the Congress in which I served for nearly two dozen years, is not served by assuming executive functions.

Many of them will never even begin the new term.

The legislative and executive branches share responsibility for the security of the nation, and each has a vital role to play.

The limitations upon the Commander in Chief and the executive branch of the government here sought to be imposed are a clear violation of separation of powers.

Its enactment would represent a fundamental encroachment on one of the great principles of the American Constitutional system--the separation of powers between the Legislative and Executive branches.

In addition to the constitutional principle involved, effective national defense in this nuclear age requires flexibility in the management of our defense installations, including the assignment of their respective missions.

I regret that I must return H.R. 8439 without my approval.

Also we have done much to soften the effect on the communities and individuals involved.

The Congress enacts the laws.

On behalf of the entire Nation, I want to thank the Vice President and his very special task force on Youth Opportunity.

The bill authorizes a military construction program.

What we have done this summer is more than just a matter of finding summer jobs for youngsters.

Further, the American people are entitled to a dollar's worth of defense for every dollar spent.

For these reasons, I am compelled to return this bill without my approval.