    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book I)]
    [January 1, 1996]
    [Page 1]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 1]]

    Statement on the Death of Admiral Arleigh A. Burke
    January 1, 1996

        We mourn the passing today of Adm. Arleigh A. Burke, U.S. Navy
    (Retired), whose dedicated and exceptional career is cherished by
    everyone who knew of his extraordinary courage, legendary reputation,
    and selfless service.
        Last summer, as I prepared for the 50th anniversary of the
    commemoration of V-J Day and the end of the war in the Pacific, I had
    the honor and privilege of having dinner with Admiral Burke. I benefited
    then from his wise counsel, as had previous Presidents before me.
    Courageous and gallant, he was renowned for his heroism and leadership
    during the Pacific battles of World War II, from Cape St. George and the
    Solomon Sea to Leyte Gulf and Okinawa. During his 6-year tenure as Chief
    of Naval Operations in the pivotal years of the cold war, Admiral
    Burke's vision ensured a balanced and versatile Navy to help deter world
    war and respond to whatever crises might come. The U.S. Navy, in naming
    one of its most powerful class of surface ships after ``31-Knot Burke,''
    has ensured that his name will ride the seas as a reminder in the coming
    century of an indomitable destroyerman and naval leader who stood for
    freedom and the excellence needed to defend it.
        To Admiral Burke's wife of 72 years, Roberta, his family and
    friends, and to the Navy community, I extend my heartfelt condolences.
    We will remember him as one of America's finest sailors and most capable
    military leaders.

    Note: The related proclamation of January 2 is listed in Appendix D at
    the end of this volume.