[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992-1993, Book II)]
[October 9, 1992]
[Page 1785]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the Death of Willy Brandt
October 9, 1992

    The President was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a great 
German statesman and patriot, Willy Brandt.
    Willy Brandt was a towering figure of the postwar era, a man of 
vision and courage. History will crown him as a stalwart champion of 
freedom and democracy, who, as Governing Mayor of Berlin during the 
city's darkest days, fearlessly faced down a Soviet menace that 
threatened the lives and ideals of his beloved city and people. History 
will also record his as a powerful voice for reconciliation between East 
and West. First as Foreign Minister and then as Chancellor, he actively 
pursued a relaxation of tension in Europe that made the world a safer 
place for us all. The collapse of communism and the onward march of 
democracy in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union soundly 
vindicate his bold vision of two decades ago.
    Americans will remember Willy Brandt not only as a champion of 
freedom and democracy but also as a steadfast friend of the United 
States. His strong support of the transatlantic community reflected his 
belief that close German-American cooperation was crucial to the 
preservation of peace and promotion of freedom and democracy.
    Together with our German friends and all those who fought in the 
causes to which Willy Brandt dedicated his life, the American people 
mourn his loss.