Armed Forces Day
Ambassador William R. Timken, Jr.

Berlin, Allied Museum
May 23, 2007.

As prepared for delivery.

 

It is a pleasure and a privilege to welcome all of you to this celebration of Armed Forces Day.   On behalf of the Embassy, I would like to thank the Allied Museum for hosting this reception. 

Here in Berlin, the dedication of America’s armed forces underlies the city’s history – and the post-war German-American relationship.  For the world, but especially for Germans and Americans, Berlin was more than a symbol of division.  It was also a symbol of commitment and trust.   Nowhere else was the evidence of a common purpose and common values -- freedom, justice and democracy -- more obvious.  The partnership between our two countries has been described as one of the most successful  alliances in the history of contemporary diplomatic history.  That is due in no small part to the unwavering commitment of the men and women of our armed forces.

Armed Forces Day was established in 1949.  It was created to reassure Americans that the military was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.  A terrible world war had just come to an end but the times were still uncertain.  Today the threats of the Cold War lie behind us.  But the century ahead holds new and equally great challenges. The fight for freedom around the world is an ongoing battle.  Today brave men and women of the American armed forces are fighting alongside the troops of our NATO and other allies to protect the freedoms that we all value.  

This evening, our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the three German soldiers who were killed last week in Afghanistan.   The bravery and sacrifice of everyone in the Armed Services of both our countries deserve our respect and gratitude.   Today is an excellent opportunity for us to thank them. 

Thank you again to the Allied Museum for helping us to recognize Armed Forces Day 2007 and to thank our armed services for the job they do for us all.