A Moment in Time:

The President Speaks in 1984

In 1984, Time magazine launched its Distinguished Speakers Series with an address from Ronald Reagan at Eureka College. The series was designed to allow high profile speakers to address colleges and universities of their choice. It was his third speech to the campus community in five years, and was a major event, both for the college and for the national press.

President Reagan spoke on his 73rd birthday, February 6th, also the 129th Anniversary of the founding of Eureka College. Look closely to see the "Happy Birthday Dutch" sign on the far wall of the Reagan Center gymnasium.

Having the President on campus meant more than a speech. He brought with him his ever-present Secret Service detail, and used the field east of the Reagan Center as a landing pad for the presidential helicopter.

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