No country enjoys more rewards from the stability provided by global institutions. No country sees greater returns from the prosperity enabled by a free and open world economy. No country reaps more security from our strategic alliances. Indeed, if we value the benefits of this global system, if we appreciate all that American leadership brings, we must embrace the duties of that leadership. Responsibility comes in many forms.
Responsibility means active partnerships with our friends and allies.
It means carriers on station across the globe. It means standing firm against adversaries such as North Korea and Iraq. It means addressing the first sparks of conflict or instability before they ignite into full-scale war. And, of course, responsibility means being prepared to protect our values and interests with force, if necessary. Indeed, America must treat the selfless dedication of those of you who wear the uniform as a sacred trust, resisting the temptation to use our forces in every dispute that catches our eye or emotions, and recognizing the truth that there are times not only when we can act, but when we must.