Our nation was built and civilized by men and women who used guns in self-defense and in pursuit of peace. One wonders indeed, if the rising crime rate, isn't due as much as anything to the criminal's instinctive knowledge that the average victim no longer has means of self-protection.

Some people wonder all their lives if they've made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem.

The First Continental Congress made its first act a prayer, the beginning of a great tradition. We have then a lesson from the founders of our land. That lesson is clear: That in the winning of freedom and in the living of life, the first step is prayer.

There are some who've forgotten why we have a military. It's not to promote war. It's to be prepared for peace. There's a sign over the entrance to the Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington state, and that sign says it all: 'Peace is our profession'.

We have to realize that this country in its private sector has been fighting the most successful war on poverty the world has seen for the last 200 years.

Government's first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives.

America is still an eagle, and she's ready to soar again.