This celebration period is an important opportunity for this Nation to reflect on the past and, even more so, to look to the future.

The strength of the Nation comes from the richness of its many ideas.

I am always an optimist.

We must move ahead with a solution.

I know from the very outset that we share the same vision for America, a free, rising democracy.

We must ask ourselves what will we leave to the next generation?

We can and we must reduce our needs from the projected 12.7 million barrels to less than 5 million barrels.

I am greatly impressed with the theme of your gathering--'Peace, a common purpose.'

It is my deep conviction that peace depends upon a strong defense.

I thank you. Millions of other Americans will thank you.

To slash that budget because of some preconceived ideas or without adequate information is a gamble with our future.

When disasters occur, this Good Neighbor responds with quick and openhanded assistance to help the injured and homeless.

Traditionally, March is Red Cross Month.

In issuing the Proclamation, I suggest that the Federal Government and its employees, including members of our Armed Forces, consider volunteering for service with the Red Cross to help provide the support so necessary to preserve this…

It will be a period when each of us should consider the volunteer spirit that prevails in this Nation as typified by the good works of the American Red Cross.

March, 1975, as Red Cross Month.

And this Nation's veterans and members of our military forces turn to Red Cross volunteers and staff in time of personal and family crisis for help.

The American Red Cross, governed both nationally and in our communities by boards made up of volunteers, is dependent upon each one of us for its existence.