Remarks in Bonn at the Signing of a Charter Establishing the German Peace Corps, 24 June 1963 – President Kennedy

May 26 2014

On Memorial Day, the nation pauses to remember and honor those who died defending this country in War. President Kennedy honored those not merely by recognizing their sacrifice but by working to make such sacrifices not necessary. In his last summer in his office, he signed the Test Ban Treaty with Russia and toured Europe, making his famous “Ich Bin a Berliner” at the Berlin Wall.Perhaps his most eloquent speech on behalf of peace, is the one he made in Bonn, Germany, heralding the beginning of the German Peace Corps. I think it is fitting to listen again to him. The President speaks of the conflict with Communism, a conflict that is now won and done. But we face new threats and challenges,” including the common enemies of mankind.” Kennedy’s words still ring true.

Here is this gem: Kennedy speaking about the creation of the German Peace Corps. It is all the more powerful because it occurred during JFK’s trip to Europe at the height of the Cold War. Surrounded by displays of military machinery and flanked by armed soldiers, JFK spoke of Peace and how unarmed Volunteers might win it, not with bombs, but with helping hands. To listen to the audio, here is the link

http://www.jfklibrary.org/Asset-Viewer/Archives/JFKWHA-196-004.aspx

Kennedy’s tour of Europe, June 23 to July 2, 1963, is captured on film and available to view. Kennedy visited Germany, Ireland, Britain and Italy.

The film records his “Ich bin ein Berliner” speech. No one knew that this was to be Kennedy’s farewell tour.

The film runs about 80 minutes. Here is the link:

http://www.jfklibrary.org/Asset-Viewer/Archives/JFKWHF-WHS1.aspx

Cancel Reply