Letter
from President Ronald Regan
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. |
