President Ford told a delegation of B’nai B’rith Women at the White House yesterday that the support of Israel by the United States is a non-partisan issue and expressed confidence that his audience have “a great sense of pride” in America.
“The United States has long had a history of supporting the government of Israel,” Ford said according to a transcript of his remarks made available at the White House today. “I think all of us recognize that this is an issue that is not partisan. Great Democratic presidents, great Republican presidents have stood firm and fast in recommending programs, recommending policies recommending appropriations for the security and survival of Israel and this Administration is doing exactly the same thing.”
Ford added: “We recognize, of course, that Israel is a democratic country in an area that is controversial, complex, volatile and the three million-plus citizens of Israel, because of their staunch and steadfast defense of freedom, need the help and assistance of 215 million Americans whether they are Democrats or Republicans.”
EMPHASIZES PRIDE IN AMERICA
Noting that “over the years America has welcomed people from all over the world” and “the net result is we have a special character, a special strength in this country,” Ford said, “we are so fortunate in this great country and it is our obligation and our responsibility, regardless of any political persuasion that we may have to stand tall and strong for America at home and America abroad.”
The President concluded, “I know that in the breasts and the minds of each and every one of you, as it is in all of your fellow Americans, a great sense of pride in this country and I literally at night when I go to sleep, say to myself, and I think you probably do too, that I am proud to be an American and I am proud of America.”
Ford made his remarks in an unscheduled appearance in the White House East Room where the B’nai B’rith Women were participating in a Bicentennial presentation.
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