[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
[April 3, 1991]
[Pages 324-325]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Remarks at the All-Star Salute to the Troops at Andrews Air Force Base, 
Maryland
April 3, 1991

    Good evening. [Applause] Thank you very much. [Applause] Thank you. 
[Applause] Thank you guys. [Applause] Please be seated. [Applause] Thank 
you all very, very much. [Applause] If that's the way you follow orders, 
how did we ever win the war? [Laughter]
    What a pleasure it is to be here surrounded by stars. And I'm not 
just talking about the wonderful folks from Nashville and Hollywood and 
New York; I'm also talking about the real stars--the men and women of 
Operation Desert Storm.
    You know, it's just a few short weeks ago the fighting in the 
Persian Gulf ended and complete victory for the coalition forces. And I 
promised then that we would begin bringing Americans back as quickly as 
possible. And tonight I have the privilege of welcoming you home. And 
I'm delighted to see you here at Andrews Air Force Base. And Barbara and 
I came here to say congratulations to you and to all the men and women 
in our Armed Forces.
    You know, America rediscovered itself during Desert Storm. First-
rate military leaders executed a sound battle plan and delivered a swift 
victory. Men and women of all races and backgrounds worked together 
turning blueprints into triumphs. And while we freed a tiny nation, we 
also regained confidence in America's special decency, courage, 
compassion, and devotion to principle.
    The cause of freedom demands much from free people. And millions of 
Americans sacrificed in millions of ways during Desert Storm. Our hearts 
go out to the friends and families of those who served but will never 
return. And to all those who gave their lives for this country, we will 
never forget you or what you have done.

[[Page 325]]

    I can't tell you how happy I am to be here with you tonight. Every 
single day I feel a special sense of joy and gratitude for you and all 
who served. And when you freed Kuwait, you uplifted the American spirit.
    Thanks to you all, and may God bless each and every one of you. Good 
night, and thank you so much.

                    Note: The President spoke at 9:23 p.m. in Hangar 3 
                        at the base. The salute was broadcast on CBS 
                        television.