On November 11, the President issued a statement commemorating the 107th anniversary of the end of World War I. The message highlighted the significance of the armistice signed on November 11, 1918, which ended hostilities between the Allies and Germany.
The President stated, "On this day 107 years ago, the immortal causes of liberty, sovereignty, and human dignity were secured in glory at the conclusion of World War I—one of the most extraordinary displays of U.S. military might in the history of our country. Today, we remember the sacrifice of every hero of freedom who shed his blood for the survival of our civilization, and we renew our pledge to always defend the needs, values, and interests of the American people first."
The statement described how after German submarine attacks against American interests in 1917, "America righteously entered the war to protect its citizens, defend its interests, and secure the cause of peace—triggering a decisive turning point in the conflict and signaling the unrivaled strength of the U.S. Armed Forces to the entire world." The President noted that millions left their homes to join efforts against what was called "the Central Powers’ vicious reign of conquest and oppression."
Reflecting on casualties from World War I, he said: "Over the course of the war, American Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines gave everything they had for the future of freedom. Tragically, more than 320,000 suffered casualties, but their sacrifices were not in vain. Without the heroic bravery of our American soldiers, the war would not have been won, and our world today would look drastically different."
He also mentioned several key battles such as Verdun and Belleau Wood as important moments for U.S. military development: "From the Battle of Verdun to the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, from the Somme to Belleau Wood to Flanders Fields...the Great War marked a critical turning point for U.S. military strength..."
The message connected past events with current policies: "Today my Administration is proudly upholding this hard-won legacy of Peace Through Strength. Since I took office I have negotiated a series of historic peace agreements—including a deal to end the devastating war in Gaza—helping nations around the world move beyond longstanding conflicts..."
Concluding his remarks about American service members' legacy after World War I’s end over a century ago: "No tyranny can topple...the American military...no nation can compete with...American industry...no adversary can withstand...the American spirit....we vow to never stop fighting for...our Republic...our way of life...and our birthright of freedom."
