They will test our courage, our devotion to
duty, and our concept of liberty.
But I say to all men, what we have achieved in liberty, we will
surpass in greater liberty.
Steadfast in our faith in the Almighty, we will advance toward a
world where man's freedom is secure.
To that end we will devote our strength, our resources, and our
firmness of resolve. With God's help, the future of mankind will
be assured in a world of justice, harmony, and peace.
INAUGURAL ADDRESSES OF THE PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES
Dwight D. Eisenhower
FIRST INAUGURAL ADDRESS
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 1953
***
The Republican Party successfully promoted the candidacy of the
popular General of the Army in the 1952 election over the
Democratic candidate, Adlai Stevenson. The oath of office was
administered by Chief Justice Frederick Vinson on two Bibles--the
one used by George Washington at the first inauguration, and the
one General Eisenhower received from his mother upon his
graduation from the Military Academy at West Point. A large parade
followed the ceremony, and inaugural balls were held at the
National Armory and Georgetown University's McDonough Hall.
***
My friends, before I begin the expression of those thoughts that I
deem appropriate to this moment, would you permit me the privilege
of uttering a little private prayer of my own.
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