[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
[October 1, 1994]
[Page 1678]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Radio Address to American Troops in Haiti
October 1, 1994

    I wanted to take this opportunity to say a few words to those of you 
who are part of Operation Uphold Democracy. For the last 2 weeks, your 
efforts to bring peace and stability to Haiti have moved all of us here 
at home. I want you to know just how proud and grateful I and all other 
Americans are for what you're doing.
    Your Nation has asked you to take responsibility for a difficult but 
important mission. The work you're doing is helping the Haitian people 
win their fight for freedom and democracy. It's making possible the 
return of an honestly elected government. It's proving to the world that 
the United States will stand up for democracy in our hemisphere, will 
honor its own commitments, and expects those who make commitments to us 
to honor them.
    You have responded brilliantly to the call of duty. In less than 2 
weeks, your presence and your professionalism have helped curb the 
violence in Haiti, given hundreds of refugees the confidence to return 
home, permitted the Haitian Parliament to resume its work, and restored 
the mayor of Port-au-Prince to his office. These are the kinds of steps 
that will help the multinational force you are leading do its job and do 
it right.
    As you carry out your demanding mission, you should know that your 
safety remains our number one concern. General Shalikashvili, Lieutenant 
General Shelton, and your other commanders have assured me that they are 
taking every possible precaution to ensure your welfare as you carry out 
your mission.
    You're the finest fighting force in the world, the best trained, the 
best equipped, the best prepared. I share the pride of every American in 
your efforts on behalf of peace and democracy. You're performing a 
difficult mission with extraordinary skill. You have our thanks, our 
praise, our admiration, and our prayers.
    On behalf of the American people, I wish each and every one of you 
Godspeed in the service of our Nation.

Note: The address was recorded at 3:43 p.m. in the Roosevelt Room at the 
White House on September 30 for broadcast on October 1. In his remarks, 
the President referred to Lt. Gen. Henry H. Shelton, USA, commander of 
U.S. forces in Haiti.