The secrets of nature are not our monopoly. Any nation tha t is willing and able to make the effort can learn the secrets that we have learned. Our problem, therefore, is not a static one of preserving what we have. Such research alone leads to striking developments that mean leadership. Yet it is precisely in this area that we, as a nation, have been weakest.
Pure research is arduous, demanding, and difficult.
It requires unusual intellectual powers. It requires extensive and specialized training. Some of the fundamental research necessary to our national interest is being undertaken by the Federal Government. The Government has, I believe, two obligations in connection with this research if we are to obtain the results we hope for. First, it must provide truly adequate funds and facilities.