After two World Wars, it became clear that American and European security were inextricably bound in a fateful embrace. The Normandy landings proved that freedom is not free. Today, that spirit reminds us that we must remain engaged in Europe and around the world. That spirit lives on, animating and infusing the NATO alliance and inspiring our efforts to help the nations of Europe shape their own future. It is alive as we build new bridges to former adversaries and widen the circle of security to encompass all of Europe.
Reserve forces are increasingly important.
The proud tradition of the citizen soldier is still with us today, and it echoes down to us through the centuries. You are the embodiment of that tradition. Today we are relying on you more than ever. You and your colleagues are enforcing the no-fly zone over Iraq. You re building new partnerships with old adversaries in Europe.