WASHINGTON –
The following is a statement from DIA Director LtGen Vincent R. Stewart to the DIA workforce on August 18, 2017.
Teammates,
Truly there are times that try our souls. In the face of violence and intolerance, we can never be silent, but often we struggle with what to say. The framers of our Constitution were imperfect men, inspired to form “a more perfect Union.” Throughout our history, we’ve learned that this quest for perfection would often be challenged by forces opposed to freedom and liberty.
From the days of the revolution, we have constantly grasped at the straws of progress, often fighting for the very soul of our country. As the events of this week show, we are still a work in progress – striving for the ideals outlined in our founding documents. Hate is not easily conquered.
In these moments, filled with suspicion towards our own neighbors, we must remember one thing: we are all Americans. We are all created equal, endowed with unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We have fought for these very principles, and expanded them to all Americans with the blood of patriots and the actions of heroes.
To quote Thomas Paine, “The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives everything its value.” This is why we serve: to support and defend these foundational principles. Our values may be imperfectly implemented at times, but once unleashed our spirit cannot be intimidated, shouted, or legislated away. Our ideals will always triumph.
We are one nation: diverse and passionate, but that’s what unites us. Together we are on a journey to a more perfect union, through quarrels and crucibles that can only leave us stronger. It will take all of us to do this, fighting hatred, embracing our common beliefs, and putting our country before ourselves.
As Abraham Lincoln said, “With malice toward none, with charity for all…let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds… [and] do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.”
E Pluribus Unum,
Vincent R. Stewart
Lieutenant General, USMC
Director, DIA