[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 34, Number 34 (Monday, August 24, 1998)]
[Pages 1637-1638]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
The President's Radio Address

August 15, 1998

    Good morning. Two days ago, at Andrews Air Force Base, we welcomed 
them home: America's brave sons and daughters, carried under Stars and 
Stripes, flanked by the silent sentries of the honor guard. They had 
perished in Nairobi, cruelly and without warning, in an act of terror at 
the American Embassy. It was not the sort of homecoming any of us would 
have wished. But it was a tribute that befit their service to our 
Nation.
    Hillary and I had the honor to meet with their families on the 
morning of the ceremony. They shared stories with us, stories and 
memories, showing us photographs. Their shoulders were heavy with 
sadness; their voices sometimes shook. But anyone could tell that their 
hearts were full of pride for the brave service of their loved ones and 
pride in the Nation they so ably and faithfully represented around the 
world. Collectively, over the course of their careers, these 12 men and 
women represented the United States in more than 20 countries across the 
globe, from Brazil to Botswana, from France to the Philippines, from 
South Korea to their final post, Kenya.
    They represented America not simply by their deeds but by their 
character: by the quiet labors of a medical doctor, the careful 
diplomacy of a Foreign Service officer, the iron discipline of men and 
women in uniform. Their dedication to America was matched by their 
dedication to their families. In all these ways, they represented the 
best of our country. They showed the world our very best face and shared 
with its people our most cherished values.
    As a nation, we have lost much. These families have lost even more. 
Words cannot describe and tributes cannot begin to fill the cruel 
vacancy left by evil acts of terror. But in the example of the proud and 
grieving families I met on Thursday, we find an embodiment of American 
resolve. They made it clear to me they did not want us to give in to 
terror or to turn inward or retreat, for the world is full of promise, 
and they do not want us to try to stop resolving the misunderstandings 
that can deteriorate into the rot of hatred.
    Instead, they urged us to stand strong, as ever, for freedom and 
democracy in all countries and for all people. And our administration 
will remain committed to the fight against terror. Over the last few 
years, working with Congress, we have passed tough new criminal 
penalties, tightened security at airports, strengthened protection of 
our troops overseas. We have created an international coalition to help 
us combat terrorism and have apprehended or helped to capture more than 
40 terrorists abroad, including those involved in attacks on Pan Am 
Flight 830 and the World Trade Center and in the murder of two CIA 
employees in Virginia.
    We must continue to lead the world toward peace, freedom, and 
prosperity. That is why our diplomats are on the job today around the 
world, working to ensure our national security, working to strengthen 
the global economy, working to bring peace to troubled regions, working 
often at risk to themselves. And that is why we now must work to rebuild 
our Embassies in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam, to secure our Embassies and 
outposts around the world, to support our friends in Tanzania and Kenya 
as they rebuild.
    This week, I have spoken with leaders in Congress, Republicans and 
Democrats alike. In the finest American tradition, they have pledged to 
join me in protecting America's presence throughout the world. Today we 
think especially of those serving in our diplomatic posts. I ask all our 
citizens to say a prayer for them and to express gratitude for their 
service. The spirit of the patriots who have dedicated or lost their 
lives to service is the spirit of America. They help to keep

[[Page 1638]]

our Nation strong and free, peaceful and proud, a powerful beacon of 
hope for the world.
    Thank you for listening.

Note: The President spoke at 10:06 a.m. from the Oval Office at the 
White House.