, 1958-01-08

lnition given by Lincoln in his first nauguraladdres "The
legitimate object of government is tosdo for a community
lot people Whateverthey need to be done, but can not do
at all, or can not SO well do, in their Separate and indivi-
dual capacities
We believe that no American-no one group Of Ameri-
lcans-can truly prosper unless all Americans prosper. For
We are one family made up of millions of Americans with
the same hopes for a full and happy life. We believe that
the Stun, the out-dated highway, the poor school system
deficiencies in health protection, the loss of a job; and the
lear OF poverty in old age-in fact any real injustice in the
business OF Gving-penaEZes US all. AZ L
We know that our Government stands ready to help
us to help ourselves and to do those. things for us which
we. cannot SO well do in our individual capacity strike
into this record our full appreciation for the golden mil
lions which the Federal Government has poured into our
islands to equip us with modern sewerage systems, i'm
proved communications facilities, the very latest in hospi-
tai and school plants, in loW-cost housing, airport and high
way construction, among the substantial physical improve
ments over the past. decade, On the other hand, let US
never undeFvalue or underestimate the many things, I
have here rected in part only-Whic we, in the march of
progress have done, and daily continue to do, for ourselves
as we Should, by intelligent planning, skill, and by the
sweat of our brow. VI -
Patriotism, unlimited
listened very carefully a few weeks ago to my good
friend, Col. Joseph A Christmas, SAL, the Selective
Service Officer in the Virgin Islands, as he was inter
viewed by the Women's League over radio station VISTA.
Among his many remarks commencing the spirit and
valor OF Virgin Islands servicemen, Col. Christmas
brought out the fact that there were approximately 544
volunteers of the 1918 Virgin Islands servicemen pro-
cessed through the local board, or roughly 50% of the total
enlistments. | just had to point out that fact because,
these days, we hear too little Of the patriotism and sacri-
fee Of Virgin Islanders; and hear far itooamuch these days
OF the economic benefits which these islands receive from
the Federal Government ~. although we receive such
grant-in-aid at less than par, in many instances, along
with the other territories and certain States of the Union.
Progress demands dedication
Unhestatingly, / wish to state my firm conviction that
the people of these Islands are. well advanced in the appIi-
cation of the principles of American democracy and of
self-government. We have a tremendous reservoir. of lead
ership ability just waiting toHbe tapped. But, my friends,
these times cry out loudly for more constructive sugges-
tons. e need less complaints and less criticism Of each
other Progress is not for the lazy and INDECENT. Progress
demands character, It demands will. it demands dedica-
ton. Progress requires quiet decision, selfrespect, and
se1freliance.
Let US cherish our island-home with a love that does
not court sacrifice, a concern that thrives under constant
and determined effort. Let us remember, you and /, that
OLE child and mur children,s children will henaGt.nr cuffor