    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book II)]
    [September 22, 1997]
    [Page 1215]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the 50th Anniversary of the National Security Council
    September 22, 1997

    To Past and Present Members of the NSC Staff:
        I congratulate you on the 50th anniversary of the National Security
    Council.
        During the more than forty years of the Cold War, you guided our
    country's leaders through the brinksmanship of East-West confrontation.
    In the almost ten years since communism's collapse, the NSC Staff has
    helped identify the possibilities and protect against the perils of our
    new era.
        Indeed, at a time when the world's increasing interdependence
    challenges us all to new patterns of thought and action, the NSC's role
    is more important than ever. Your sound judgment, advice, and dedication
    are a key part of our ability to seize the opportunities of the 21st
    century. Because of your work, our lives are safer, our economy
    stronger, and our country more secure. On behalf of a grateful nation,
    congratulations and thank you.

                                                          William J. Clinton

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