Click on the player above to see the video or read the article below.
Dwight D. Eisenhower was a towering figure of the 20th century, whose legacy as a military leader and statesman continues to inspire people who know his story.
As the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during World War II, he orchestrated the successful D-Day invasion, a pivotal moment in the defeat of Nazi Germany.
After the surrender of Germany, he served briefly as the Military Governor of the U.S. Occupied Zone in Germany, then became the Chief of Staff of the United States Army from 1945-48. From 1948-1953 he became the President of Columbia University, although he had to take a leave of absence during that time to serve as the Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, where he helped strengthen the Western alliance against Soviet expansion.
In 1952, he was elected the 34th President of the United States and he served two terms. He focused on maintaining peace, bolstering U.S. defenses, launching the Interstate Highway System, and advocating for civil rights.
Eisenhower’s Farewell Address to the American people at the end of his presidency is often remembered for his warning about the growing military-industrial complex, but there were other points he also shared.
“As we peer into society's future, we-you and I, and our government-must avoid the impulse to live only for today, plundering, for our own ease and convenience, the precious resources of tomorrow. We cannot mortgage the material assets of our grandchildren without risking the loss also of their political and spiritual heritage. We want democracy to survive for all generations to come, not to become the insolvent phantom of tomorrow.”
President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Farewell Address, January 11, 1961.
It’s probably wise for us to consider if we have already plundered the future of our grandchildren for our ease and convenience today.
If you would like to know more about Eisenhower, here are a couple of resources you might want to check out.
President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Farewell Address (1961) - You can read a transcript of the talk at the National Archives.
General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s D-Day Message - This YouTube video contains the audio of the message Eisenhower sent to the troops before they launched the largest armada in history.
Crusade in Europe by Dwight Eisenhower. This is a classic history of World War II written by Eisenhower before he was elected President. I found this book not only fascinating for its revelations about the war, but I was really impressed with his descriptions of the decision-making process and the qualities of a leader.
Before I go, I’d like to share a blessing with you from the Old Testament.
“May the Lord bless and protect you; may the Lord’s face radiate with joy because of you; may he be gracious to you, show you his favor, and give you his peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26 (The Living Bible)
Until next time … be the reason someone smiles today
Peering into the Future