Senator
John McCain's "Centennial Tribute to the Navy League of the
United States"
 I am pleased
to be the honorary chairman of the Navy League of the United
States' Centennial Celebration, and to stand with National
President RADM Tim Fanning, over 300 local councils, and more
than 74,000 members as "Citizens in Support of
the Sea Services." I hope you, too, will accept the challenge to
join in the 2002 Centennial celebration.
As a fellow member of the Navy League of the United States, I know that we share
some common interests. First among them, we love our country. Second, we know
that a strong national defense is essential to realizing a lasting peace - at
home and abroad. Third, we recognize the critical role that the sea services
play in making ours the greatest military in the history of the world. And more
specifically, we accept the responsibility to join with other patriotic citizens
- with the help of the Navy League - to collectively call on our fellow countrymen
to keep our sea services - and thus our nation - strong!
I am proud to be counted among the patriotic citizens who support all of those
who defend our Nation at sea. The Navy League has become a valued strategic partner
to our nation's sea services. From educating our fellow countrymen regarding
the vital importance of a strong national sea service, to programs aimed directly
at helping sea service families and their children, the Navy League has developed
a strong tradition that is uniquely its own - unwavering citizen support for
the men and women of the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and U.S. Merchant Marine.
Our Centennial year is a great opportunity for the Navy League to become THE
recognized expert in the world's sea power capabilities, and to raise awareness
of the benefits we all derive from a strong national defense.
With energized leadership and with growing membership, the Navy League is entering
its second century of service stronger than ever before. I am humbled to have
a role in the Centennial and I encourage you to join me as we celebrate with
a renewed commitment to the men and women who serve our nation.
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