Remarks by President Trump During a Roundtable on Transition to Greatness: Restoring, Rebuilding, and Renewing | Dallas, TX

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, General, and hello cadets.  On behalf of our entire nation, let me say congratulations to the incredible West Point Class of 2020.  Congratulations.  Everyone have a good time, enjoy yourselves, because we are here to celebrate your achievements, and great achievements they are.  Let us also recognize your remarkable Superintendent, General Darryl Williams, for his outstanding stewardship.  General, thank you very much.  Great job.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

Few words in the English language and few places in history have commanded as much awe and admiration as West Point.  This premier military academy produces only the best of the best, the strongest of the strong, and the bravest of the brave.  West Point is a universal symbol of American gallantry, loyalty, devotion, discipline, and great skill.  There is no place on Earth I would rather be than right here with all of you.  It’s a great honor.

Across this hallowed plain have passed many of the greatest and most fearsome soldiers that ever lived.  They were heroes who drove thundering columns of Sherman tanks into the heart of a wicked empire.  They were legends who unleashed the fury of American artillery upon our enemies on remote islands and distant shores.  They were titans who strode through cannon blast and cavalry charge, and stared down our foes through gray clouds of smoke and shrapnel.  They were the Army Rangers who led the way up jagged cliffs, the Airborne soldiers who rained down justice in the dark of night, the infantry whose very sight meant liberation was near, and the mighty forces who sent tyrants, terrorists, and sadistic monsters running scared through the gates of hell.  No evil force on Earth can match the noble power and righteous glory of the American warrior.

I have no doubt that the young men and women before me today will add your names to this eternal chronicle of American heroes.  You will go forth from this place adored by your countrymen, dreaded by your enemies, and respected by all throughout the world.  Someday, generations of future West Point cadets will study your legacy.  They will know your deeds, they will celebrate your triumphs, and they will proudly follow your example.

To the 1,107 who today become the newest officers in the most exceptional Army ever to take the field of battle, I am here to offer America’s salute.  Thank you for answering your nation’s call.

On this special occasion, we are delighted to be joined by Congressman Steve Womack, Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy, Assistant Secretary Casey Wardynski, and Army Chief of Staff General James McConville, an old grad from the class of 1981.

Let’s also express our appreciation to General Curtis Buzzard, General Cindy Jebb, and all of the wonderful instructors, coaches, and faculty members who are continuing West Point’s two-century tradition of unrivaled excellence.