THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON

March 18, 1987

I am proud to send greetings to everyone gathered to commemorate Patrick Henry's unique role in the founding of our Nation, and to dedicate his beloved Red Hill home as the Red Hill National Patrick Henry Memorial.

Eyewitnesses thought Patrick Henry the most electrifying orator of his age. In March 1775, he struck the spark that set the South aflame with revolutionary fervor. Ever after, Americans and all who would be free have thrilled at the words that brought Virginia into the battle: "Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it! Almighty God!" And then the cry that every schoolboy and schoolgirl once knew, and that should be burned into our hearts if we are to remain what Patrick Henry helped make us: "I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"

I take a moment to pause with you in memory of the brave legions of Americans through two centuries who have made Patrick Henry's words their own and paid the supreme sacrifice for our Nation.

Everyone connected with this Memorial deserves his countrymen's heartfelt gratitude for giving Patrick Henry, an immortal American, such an appropriate honor. Congratulations and God bless you -- and God bless America.