Speech

            The United States armed forces remain the most capable in the world and have demonstrated their readiness in meeting America’s many security obligations around the globe.  U.S. armed forces have successfully responded to numerous, worldwide contingency operations ranging from the ongoing mission of Operations Northern and Southern Watch patrolling the no-fly zones over Iraq to Operation Allied Force in the Balkans. In addition, there have been continuing peacekeeping and peace-enforcement operations in locations like Bosnia, new operations in Kosovo, and operations that are drawing down, as in Haiti. Simultaneously, the nation’s armed forces have effectively maintained a forward presence around the world, in such places as Europe and Korea.  In carrying out this range of missions, from small-scale contingencies, such as peacekeeping, to larger-scale operations, the Services have consistently demonstrated their versatility and unmatched capability.

            U.S. forces are the best in the world primarily because of the quality of the people. Increasing threats to U.S. security and emerging technology make quality service members indispensable.  The armed forces rebounded in 2000 to meet their recruiting goals where both the Army and the Air Force failed to meet their goals in 1999.  Attaining recruiting goals is essential to maintaining our ready forces.

            The military is also at its peak because of the outstanding equipment and technology that our superior soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines are operating.  We are more technologically advanced than any other country.  We have better jets for our navy, we have better tanks and artillery for our army, and we have better communication equipment, which serves all of our soldiers. 

            The combination of the men and women with the advanced technology is the reason why we are capable of winning battles against our adversaries with minimal loss of American lives.  We are able to attack quickly and effectively leaving our opponents with little opportunity to inflict any real damage to us.

Our military possesses the ability to protect our national interests and if necessary, win our wars because of the superb men and women who fill ranks, the equipment they have been provided, and the training they have completed.  America’s military is a force that stands ready to serve her nation.