Introduction of President Barack Obama
United States Naval Academy
2009 Graduation and Commissioning Ceremony
May 22, 2009
Mr. Secretary, Admiral Fowler, distinguished guests, officers, midshipmen, alumni, fellow Marylanders, fellow Americans, we in Maryland are very proud to be the home of the United States Naval Academy. And we are very proud of all of you,… the future of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
It is a great privilege to share this happy day with you, and a humbling honor to have been asked to introduce your most distinguished commencement speaker.
A great American once said that “responsibility is the greatest right of citizenship and service is the greatest of freedom's privileges.”
The 44th President of the United States is a living example of these words. His leadership is inspiring Americans from all walks of life to embrace our shared responsibility to advance the common good,… and his leadership is awakening a renewed sense of hope and optimism in the American spirit.
President Obama is strongly supportive of the United States military; he believes in giving you the tools and the support that you need to protect the safety and security of our families.
In a 21st century world where our national security is inextricably linked to our ability to create and innovate, President Obama is investing in the primary ingredient of innovation – public education and the skills of our workforce in science, technology, engineering and math.
In a world where our security is impacted both by global terror and by global climate change, he has called for a new wave of discovery, so that together we can build a safer and more sustainable future for our country and for our world.
Most importantly, he is unafraid to call upon the most important power we possess as a people – the power of our ideals; our shared belief in higher truths -- freedom, justice, equality of opportunity, and the dignity of every individual.
It is my honor to introduce the President of the United States of America, Barack Obama.
