Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, Members of the Congress: First, I extend cordial greetings to the 84th Congress. We shall have much to do together; I am sure that we shall get it done--and, that we shall do it in harmony and good will. At the outset, I believe it would be well to remind ourselves of this great fundamental in our national life: our common belief that every human being is divinely endowed with dignity and worth and inalienable rights. This faith, with its corollary--that to grow and flourish people must be free--shapes the interests and aspirations of every American. From this deep faith have evolved three main purposes of our Federal Government: First, to maintain justice and freedom among ourselves and to champion them for others so that we may work effectively for enduring peace; Second, to help keep our economy vigorous and expanding, thus sustaining our international strength and assuring better jobs, better living, better opportunities for every citizen; And third, to concern ourselves with the human problems of our people so that every American may have the opportunity to lead a healthy, productive and rewarding life. Foremost among these broad purposes of government is our support of freedom, justice and peace. It is of the utmost importance, that each of us understand the true nature of the struggle now taking place in the world. It is not a struggle merely of economic theories, or of forms of government, or of military power. At issue is the true nature of man. Either man is the creature whom the Psalmist described as "a little lower than the angels," crowned with glory and honor, holding "dominion over the works" of his Creator; or man is a soulless, animated machine to be enslaved, used and consumed by the state for its own glorification. It is, therefore, a struggle which goes to the roots of the human spirit, and its shadow falls across the long sweep of man's destiny. This prize, so precious, so fraught with ultimate meaning, is the true object of the contending forces in the world. In the past year, there has been progress justifying hope, both for continuing peace and for the ultimate rule of freedom and justice in the world. Free nations are collectively stronger than at any time in recent years. Just as nations of this Hemisphere, in the historic Caracas and Rio conferences, have closed ranks against imperialistic Communism and strengthened their economic ties, so free nations elsewhere have forged new bonds of unity. Recent agreements between Turkey and Pakistan have laid a foundation for increased strength in the Middle East. With our understanding support, Egypt and Britain, Yugoslavia and Italy, Britain and Iran have resolved dangerous differences. The security of the Mediterranean has been enhanced by an alliance among Greece, Turkey and Yugoslavia. Agreements in Western Europe have paved the way for unity to replace past divisions which have undermined Europe's economic and military vitality. The defense of the West appears likely at last to include a free, democratic Germany participating as an equal in the councils of NATO. In Asia and the Pacific, the pending Manila Pact supplements our treaties with Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Korea and Japan and our prospective treaty with the Republic of China. These pacts stand as solemn warning that future military aggression and subversion against the free nations of Asia will meet united response. The Pacific Charter, also adopted at Manila, is a milestone in the development of human freedom and self-government in the Pacific area. Under the auspices of the United Nations, there is promise of progress in our country's plan for the peaceful use of atomic energy. Finally, today the world is at peace. It is, to be sure, an secure peace. Yet all humanity finds hope in the simple fact that for an appreciable time there has been no active major battlefield on earth. This same fact inspires us to work all the more effectively with other nations for the well-being, the freedom, the dignity, of every human on earth. These developments are heartening indeed, and we are hopeful of continuing progress. But sobering problems remain. The massive military machines and ambitions of the Soviet-Communist bloc still create uneasiness in the world. All of us are aware of the continuing reliance of the Soviet Communists on military force, of the power of their weapons, of their present resistance to realistic armament limitation, and of their continuing effort to dominate or intimidate free nations on their periphery. Their steadily growing power includes an increasing strength in nuclear weapons. This power, combined with the proclaimed intentions of the Communist leaders to communize the world, is the threat confronting us today. To protect our nations and our peoples from the catastrophe of a nuclear holocaust, free nations must maintain countervailing military power to persuade the Communists of the futility of seeking their ends through aggression. If Communist rulers understand that America's response to aggression will be swift and decisive--that never shall we buy peace at the expense of honor or faith--they will be powerfully deterred from launching a military venture engulfing their own peoples and many others in disaster. This, of course, is merely world stalemate. But in this stalemate each of us may and must exercise his high duty to strive in every honorable way for enduring peace. The military threat is but one menace to our freedom and security. We must not only deter aggression; we must also frustrate the effort of Communists to gain their goals by subversion. To this end, free nations must maintain and reinforce their cohesion, their internal security, their political and economic vitality, and their faith in freedom. 
In such a world, America's course is dear: 
We must tirelessly labor to make the peace more just and durable. We must strengthen the collective defense under the United Nations Charter and gird ourselves with sufficient military strength and productive capacity to discourage resort to war and protect our nation's vital interests. We must continue to support and strengthen the United Nations. At this very moment, by vote of the United Nations General Assembly, its Secretary-General is in Communist China on a mission of deepest concern to all Americans: seeking the release of our never-to-be-forgotten American aviators and all other United Nations prisoners wrongfully detained by the Communist regime. We must also encourage the efforts being made in the United Nations to limit armaments and to harness the atom to peaceful rise. We must expand international trade and investment and assist friendly nations whose own best efforts are still insufficient to provide the strength essential to the security of the free world. We must be willing to use the processes of negotiation whenever they will advance the cause of just and secure peace to which the United States and other free nations are dedicated. In respect to all these matters, we must, through a vigorous information program, keep the peoples of the world truthfully advised of our actions and purposes. This problem has been attacked with new vigor during the past months. I urge that the Congress give its earnest consideration to the great advantages that can accrue to our country through the successful operations of this program. We must also carry forward our educational exchange program. This sharing of knowledge and experience between our citizens and those of free countries is a powerful factor in the development and maintenance of true partnership among free peoples. To advance these many efforts, the Congress must act in this session on appropriations, legislation, and treaties. Today I shall mention especially our foreign economic and military programs. The recent economic progress in many free nations has been most heartening. The productivity of labor and the production of goods and services are increasing in ever-widening areas. There is a growing will to improve the living standards of all men. This progress is important to all our people. It promises us allies who are strong and self-reliant; it promises a growing world market for the products of our mines, our factories, and our farms. But only through steady effort can we hope to continue this progress. Barriers still impede trade and the flow of capital needed to develop each nation's human and material resources. Wise reduction of these barriers is a long-term objective of our foreign economic policy--a policy of an evolutionary and selective nature, assuring broad benefits to our own and other peoples. We must gradually reduce certain tariff obstacles to trade. These actions should, of course, be accompanied by a similar lowering of trade barriers by other nations, so that we may move steadily toward greater economic advantage for all. We must further simplify customs administration and procedures. We must facilitate the flow of capital and continue technical assistance, both directly and through the United Nations, to less developed countries to strengthen their independence and raise their living standards. Many another step must be taken in and among the nations of the free world to release forces of private initiative. In our own nation, these forces have brought strength and prosperity; once released, they will generate rising incomes in these other countries with which to buy the products of American industry, labor and agriculture. On January 10, by special message, I shall submit specific recommendations for carrying forward the legislative phases of our foreign economic policy. Our many efforts to build a better world include the maintenance of our military strength. This is a vast undertaking. Major national security programs consume two-thirds of the entire Federal budget. Over four million Americans--servicemen and civilians--are on the rolls of the defense establishment. During the past two years, by eliminating duplication and overstaffing, by improved procurement and inventory controls, and by concentrating on the essentials, many billions of dollars have been saved in our defense activities. I should like to mention certain fundamentals underlying this vast program. First, a realistic limitation of armaments and an enduring, just peace remain our national goals; we maintain powerful military forces because there is no present alternative--forces designed for deterrent and defensive purposes alone but able instantly to strike back with destructive power in response to an attack. Second, we must stay alert to the fact that undue reliance on one weapon or preparation for only one kind of warfare simply invites an enemy to resort to another. We must, therefore, keep in our armed forces balance and flexibility adequate for our purposes and objectives. Third, to keep our armed forces abreast of the advances of science, our military planning must be flexible enough to utilize the new weapons and techniques which flow ever more speedily from our research and development programs. The forthcoming military budget therefore emphasizes modern airpower in the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps and increases the emphasis on new weapons, especially those of rapid and destructive striking power. It assures the maintenance of effective, retaliatory force as the principal deterrent to overt aggression. It accelerates the continental defense program and the build-up of ready military reserve forces. It continues a vigorous program of stockpiling strategic and critical materials and strengthening our mobilization base. The budget also contemplates the strategic concentration of our strength through redeployment of certain forces. It provides for reduction of forces in certain categories and their expansion in others, to fit them to the military realities of our time. These emphases in our defense planning have been made at my personal direction after long and thoughtful study. In my judgment, they will give our nation a defense accurately adjusted to the national need. Fourth, pending a world agreement on armament limitation, we must continue to improve and expand our supplies of nuclear weapons for our land, naval and air forces, while, at the same time, continuing our encouraging progress in the peaceful use of atomic power. And fifth, in the administration of these costly programs, we must demand the utmost in efficiency and ingenuity. We must assure our people not only of adequate protection but also of a defense that can be carried forward from year to year until the threat of aggression has disappeared. To help maintain this kind of armed strength and improve its efficiency, I must urge the enactment of several important measures in this session. The first concerns the selective service act which expires next June 30th. For the foreseeable future, our standing forces must remain much larger than voluntary methods can sustain. We must, therefore, extend the statutory authority to induct men for two years of military service. The second kind of measure concerns the rapid turnover of our most experienced servicemen. This process seriously weakens the combat readiness of our armed forces and is exorbitantly expensive. To encourage more trained servicemen to remain in uniform, I shall, on the thirteenth of this month, propose a number of measures to increase the attractions of a military career. These measures will include more adequate medical care for dependents, survivors' benefits, more and better housing, and selective adjustments in military pay and other allowances. And third--also on January 13--I shall present a program to rebuild and strengthen the civilian components of our armed forces. This is a comprehensive program, designed to make better use of our manpower of military age. Because it will go far in assuring fair and equitable participation in military training and service, it is of particular importance to our combat veterans. In keeping with the historic military policy of our Republic, this program is designed to build and maintain powerful civilian reserves immediately capable of effective military service in an emergency in lieu of maintaining active duty forces in excess of the nation's immediate need. Maintenance of an effective defense requires continuance of our aggressive attack on subversion at home. In this effort we have, in the past two years, made excellent progress. FBI investigations have been powerfully reinforced by a new Internal Security Division in the Department of Justice; the security activities of the Immigration and Naturalization Service have been revitalized; an improved and strengthened security system is in effect throughout the government; the Department of Justice and the FBI have been armed with effective new legal weapons forged by the 83rd Congress. We shall continue to ferret out and to destroy Communist subversion. We shall, in the process, carefully preserve our traditions and the basic rights of our citizens. Our civil defense program is also a key element in the protection of our country. We are developing cooperative methods with State Governors, Mayors, and voluntary citizen groups, as well as among Federal agencies, in building the civil defense organization. Its significance in time of war is obvious; its swift assistance in disaster areas last year proved its importance in time of peace. An industry capable of rapid expansion and essential materials and facilities swiftly available in time of emergency are indispensable to our defense. I urge, therefore, a two-year extension of the Defense Production Act and Title II of the First War Powers Act of 1941. These are cornerstones of our program for the development and maintenance of an adequate mobilization base. At this point, I should like to make this additional observation. Our quest for peace and freedom necessarily presumes that we who hold positions of public trust must rise above self and section--that we must subordinate to the general good our partisan, our personal pride and prejudice. Tirelessly, with united purpose, we must fortify the material and spiritual foundations of this land of freedom and of free nations throughout the world. As never before, there is need for unhesitating cooperation among the branches of our government. At this time the executive and legislative branches are under the management of different political parties. This fact places both parties on trial before the American people. In less perilous days of the past, division of governmental responsibility among our great parties has produced a paralyzing indecision. We must not let this happen in our time. We must avoid a paralysis of the will for peace and international security. In the traditionally bipartisan areas--military security and foreign relations--I can report to you that I have already, with the leaders of this Congress, expressed assurances of unreserved cooperation. Yet, the strength of our country requires more than mere maintenance of military strength and success in foreign affairs; these vital matters are in turn dependent upon concerted and vigorous action in a number of supporting programs. I say, therefore, to the 84th Congress: In all areas basic to the strength of America, there will be--to the extent I can insure them--cooperative, constructive relations between the Executive and Legislative Branches of this government. Let the general good be our yardstick on every great issue of our time. Our efforts to defend our freedom and to secure a just peace are, of course, inseparable from the second great purpose of our government: to help maintain a strong, growing economy--an economy vigorous and free, in which there are ever-increasing opportunities, just rewards for effort, and a stable prosperity that is widely shared. In the past two years, many important governmental Actions helped our economy adjust to conditions of peace; these and other actions created a climate for renewed economic growth. Controls were removed from wages, prices and materials. Tax revisions encouraged increased private spending and employment. Federal expenditures were sharply reduced, making possible a record tax cut. These actions, together with flexible monetary and debt management policies, helped to halt inflation and stabilize the value of the dollar. A program of cooperation and partnership in resource development was begun. Social security and unemployment insurance laws were broadened and strengthened. New laws started the long process of balancing farm production with farm markets. Expanded shipbuilding and stockpiling programs strengthened key sectors of the economy, while improving our mobilization base. A comprehensive new housing law brought impressive progress in an area fundamental to our economic strength and closed loopholes in the old laws permitting dishonest manipulation. Many of these programs are just beginning to exert their main stimulating effect upon the economy generally and upon specific communities and industries throughout the country. The past year--1954--was one of the most prosperous years in our history. Business activity now surges with new strength. Production is rising. Employment is high. Toward the end of last year average weekly wages in manufacturing were higher than ever before. Personal income after taxes is at a record level. So is consumer spending. Construction activity is reaching new peaks. Export demand for our goods is strong. State and local government expenditures on public works are rising. Savings are high, and credit is readily available. So, today, the transition to a peacetime economy is largely behind us. 
The economic outlook is good. The many promising factors I have mentioned do not guarantee sustained economic expansion; however, they do give us a strong position from which to carry forward our economic growth. If we as a people act wisely, within ten years our annual national output can rise from its present level of about $360 billion to $500 billion, measured in dollars of stable buying power. My Budget Message on January 17, the Economic Report on the 20th of this month, and several special messages will set forth in detail major programs to foster the growth of our economy and to protect the integrity of the people's money. Today I shall discuss these programs only in general terms. Government efficiency and economy remain essential to steady progress toward a balanced budget. More than ten billion dollars were cut from the spending program proposed in the budget of January 9, 1953. Expenditures of that year were six and a half billion below those of the previous year. In the current fiscal year, government spending will be nearly four and a half billion dollars less than in the fiscal year which ended last June 30. New spending authority has been held below expenditures, reducing government obligations accumulated over the years. Last year we had a large tax cut and, for the first time in seventy-five years a basic revision of Federal tax laws. It is now clear that defense and other essential government costs must remain at a level precluding further tax reductions this year. Although excise and corporation income taxes must, therefore, be continued at their present rates, further tax cuts will be possible when justified by lower expenditures and by revenue increases arising from the nation's economic growth. I am hopeful that such reductions can be made next year. At the foundation of our economic growth are the raw materials and energy produced from our minerals and fuels, lands and forests, and water resources. With respect to them, I believe that the nation must adhere to three fundamental policies: first, to develop, wisely use and conserve basic resources from generation to generation; second, to follow the historic pattern of developing these resources primarily by private citizens under fair provisions of law, including restraints for proper conservation; and third, to treat resource development as a partnership undertaking--a partnership in which the participation of private citizens and State and local governments is as necessary as Federal participation. This policy of partnership and cooperation is producing good results, most immediately noticeable in respect to water resources. First, it has encouraged local public bodies and private citizens to plan their own power sources. Increasing numbers of applications to the Federal Power Commission to conduct surveys and prepare plans for power development, notably in the Columbia River Basin, are evidence of local response. Second, the Federal Government and local and private organizations have been encouraged to coordinate their developments. This is important because Federal hydroelectric developments supply but a small fraction of the nation's power needs. Such partnership projects as Priest Rapids in Washington, the Coosa River development in Alabama, and Markham Ferry in Oklahoma already have the approval of the Congress. This year justifiable projects of a similar nature will again have Administration support. Third, the Federal Government must shoulder its own partnership obligations by undertaking projects of such complexity and size that their success requires Federal development. In keeping with this principle, I again urge the Congress to approve the development of the Upper Colorado River Basin to conserve and assure better use of precious water essential to the future of the West. In addition, the 1956 budget will recommend appropriations to start six new reclamation and more than thirty new Corps of Engineers projects of varying size. Going projects and investigations of potential new resource developments will be continued. Although this partnership approach is producing encouraging results, its full success requires a nation-wide comprehensive water resources policy firmly based in law. Such a policy is under preparation and when completed will be submitted to the Congress. In the interest of their proper conservation, development and use, continued vigilance will be maintained over our fisheries, wildlife resources, the national parks and forests, and the public lands; and we shall continue to encourage an orderly development of the nation's mineral resources. A modern, efficient highway system is essential to meet the needs of our growing population, our expanding economy, and our national security. We are accelerating our highway improvement program as rapidly as possible under existing State and Federal laws and authorizations. However, this effort will not in itself assure our people of an adequate highway system. On my recommendation, this problem has been carefully considered by the Conference of State Governors and by a special Advisory Committee on a National Highway Program, composed of leading private citizens. I have received the recommendations of the Governors' Conference and will shortly receive the views of the special Advisory Committee. Aided by their findings, I shall submit on January 27th detailed recommendations which will meet our most pressing national highway needs. In further recognition of the importance of transportation to our economic strength and security, the Administration, through a Cabinet committee, is thoroughly examining existing Federal transportation policies to determine their effect on the adequacy of transportation services. This is the first such comprehensive review directly undertaken by the Executive Branch of the government in modern times. We are not only examining major problems facing the various modes of transport; we are also studying closely the inter-relationships of civilian and government requirements for transportation. Legislation will be recommended to correct policy deficiencies which we may find. The nation's public works activities are tremendous in scope. It is expected that more than $ 12 billion will be expended in 1955 for the development of land, water and other resources; control of floods, and navigation and harbor improvements; construction of roads, schools, and municipal water supplies, and disposal of domestic and industrial wastes. Many of the Federal, State and local agencies responsible for this work are, in their separate capacities, highly efficient. But public works activities are closely inter-related and have a substantial influence on the growth of the country. Moreover, in times of threatening economic contraction, they may become a valuable sustaining force. To these ends, efficient planning and execution of the nation's public works require both the coordination of Federal activities and effective cooperation with State and local governments. The Council of Economic Advisers, through its public works planning section, has made important advances during the past year in effecting this coordination and cooperation. In view of the success of these initial efforts, and to give more emphasis and continuity to this essential coordination, I shall request the Congress to appropriate funds for the support of an Office of Coordinator of Public Works in the Executive Office of the President. A most significant element in our growing economy is an agriculture that is stable, prosperous and free. The problems of our agriculture have evolved over many years and cannot be solved overnight; nevertheless, governmental actions last year hold great promise of fostering a better balance between production and markets and, consequently, a better and more stable income for our farmers. Through vigorous administration and through new authority provided by the 83rd Congress, surplus farm products are now moving into consumption. From February 1953 through November 1954, the rate of increase of government-held surpluses has been reduced by our moving into use more than 2.3 billion dollars' worth of government-owned farm commodities; this amount is equal to more than seven percent of a year's production of all our farms and ranches. Domestic consumption remains high, and farm exports will be higher than last year. As a result of the flexibility provided by the Agricultural Act of 1954, we can move toward less restrictive acreage controls. Thus, farm production is gradually adjusting to markets, markets are being expanded, and stocks are moving into use. We can now look forward to an easing of the influences depressing farm prices, to reduced government expenditures for purchase of surplus products, and to less Federal intrusion into the lives and plans of our farm people. Agricultural programs have been redirected toward better balance, greater stability and sustained prosperity. We are headed in the right direction. I urgently recommend to the Congress that we continue resolutely on this road. Greater attention must be directed to the needs of low-income farm families. Twenty-eight per cent of our farm-operator families have net cash incomes of less than $1,000 per year. Last year, at my request, careful studies were made of the problems of these farm people. I shall later submit recommendations designed to assure the steady alleviation of their most pressing concerns. Because drought also remains a serious agricultural problem, I shall recommend legislation to strengthen Federal disaster assistance programs. This legislation will prescribe an improved appraisal of need, better adjustment of the various programs to local conditions, and a more equitable sharing of costs between the States and the Federal Government. The prosperity of our small business enterprises is an indispensable element in the maintenance of our economic strength. Creation of the Small Business Administration and recently enacted tax laws facilitating small business expansion are but two of many important steps we have taken to encourage our smaller enterprises. I recommend that the Congress extend the Small Business Act of 1953 which is due to expire next June. We come now to the third great purpose of our government-its concern for the health, productivity and well-being of all our people. Every citizen wants to give full expression to his God-given talents and abilities and to have the recognition and respect accorded under our religious and political traditions. Americans also want a good material standard of living--not simply to accumulate possessions, but to fulfill a legitimate aspiration for an environment in which their families may live meaningful and happy lives. Our people are committed, therefore, to the creation and preservation of opportunity for every citizen to lead a more rewarding life. They are equally committed to the alleviation of misfortune and distress among their fellow citizens. The aspirations of most of our people can best be fulfilled through their own enterprise and initiative, without government interference. This Administration, therefore, follows two simple rules: first, the Federal Government should perform an essential task only when it cannot otherwise be adequately performed; and second, in performing that task, our government must not impair the self-respect, freedom and incentive of the individual. So long as these two rules are observed, the government can fully meet its obligation without creating a dependent population or a domineering bureaucracy. During the past two years, notable advances were made in these functions of government. Protection of old-age and survivors' insurance was extended to an additional ten million of our people, and the benefits were substantially increased. Legislation was enacted to provide unemployment insurance protection to some four million additional Americans. Stabilization of living costs and the halting of inflation protected the value of pensions and savings. A broad program now helps to bring good homes within the reach of the great majority of our people. With the States, we are providing rehabilitation facilities and more clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes for patients with chronic illnesses. Also with the States, we have begun a great and fruitful expansion in the restoration of disabled persons to employment and useful lives. In the areas of Federal responsibility, we have made historic progress in eliminating from among our people demeaning practices based on race or color. All of us may be proud of these achievements during the past two years. Yet essential Federal tasks remain to be done. As part of our efforts to provide decent, safe and sanitary housing for low-income families, we must carry forward the housing program authorized during the 83rd Congress. We must also authorize contracts for a firm program of 35,000 additional public housing units in each of the next two fiscal years. This program will meet the most pressing obligations of the Federal Government into the 1958 fiscal year for planning and building public housing. By that time the private building industry, aided by the Housing Act of 1954, will have had the opportunity to assume its full role in providing adequate housing for our low income families. The health of our people is one of our most precious assets. Preventable sickness should be prevented; knowledge available to combat disease and disability should be fully used. Otherwise, we as a people are guilty not only of neglect of human suffering but also of wasting our national strength. Constant advances in medical care are not available to enough of our citizens. Clearly our nation must do more to reduce the impact of accident and disease. Two fundamental problems confront us: first, high and ever-rising costs of health services; second, serious gaps and shortages in these services. By special message on January 24, I shall propose a coordinated program to strengthen and improve existing health services. This program will continue to reject socialized medicine. It will emphasize individual and local responsibility. Under it the Federal Government will neither dominate nor direct, but serve as a helpful partner. Within this framework, the program can be broad in scope. My recommendations will include a Federal health reinsurance service to encourage the development of more and better voluntary health insurance coverage by private organizations. I shall also recommend measures to improve the medical care of that group of our citizens who, because of need, receive Federal-State public assistance. These two proposals will help more of our people to meet the costs of health services. 
To reduce the gaps in these services, I shall propose: New measures to facilitate construction of needed health facilities and help reduce shortages of trained health personnel; 
Vigorous steps to combat the misery and national loss involved in mental illness; 
Improved services for crippled children and for maternal and child health; Better consumer protection under our existing pure food and drug laws; and, finally, 
Strengthened programs to combat the increasingly serious pollution of our rivers and streams and the growing problem of air pollution. These measures together constitute a comprehensive program holding rich promise for better health for all of our people. Last year's expansion of social security coverage and our new program of improved medical care for public assistance recipients together suggest modification of the formula for Federal sharing in old age assistance payments. I recommend modification of the formula where such payments will, in the future, supplement benefits received under the old age and survivors insurance system. It is the inalienable right of every person, from childhood on, to have access to knowledge. In our form of society, this right of the individual takes on a special meaning, for the education of all our citizens is imperative to the maintenance and invigoration of America's free institutions. Today, we face grave educational problems. Effective and up-to-date analyses of these problems and their solutions are being carried forward through the individual State conferences and the White House Conference to be completed this year. However, such factors as population growth, additional responsibilities of schools, and increased and longer school attendance have produced an unprecedented classroom shortage. This shortage is of immediate concern to all of our people. Positive, affirmative action must be taken now. Without impairing in any way the responsibilities of our States, localities, communities, or families, the Federal government can and should serve as an effective-catalyst in dealing with this problem. I shall forward a special message to the Congress on February 15, presenting an affirmative program dealing with this shortage. To help the States do a better and more timely job, we must strengthen their resources for preventing and dealing with juvenile delinquency. I shall propose Federal legislation to assist the States to promote concerted action in dealing with this nationwide problem. I shall carry forward the vigorous efforts of the Administration to improve the international control of the traffic in narcotics and, in cooperation with State and local agencies, to combat narcotic addiction in our country. I should like to speak now of additional matters of importance to all our people and especially to our wage earners. During the past year certain industrial changes and the readjustment of the economy to conditions of peace brought unemployment and other difficulties to various localities and industries. These problems are engaging our most earnest attention. But for the overwhelming majority of our working people, the past year has meant good jobs. Moreover, the earnings and savings of our wage earners are no longer depreciating in value. Because of cooperative relations between labor and management, fewer working days were lost through strikes in 1954 than in any year in the past decade. The outlook for our wage earners can be made still more promising by several legislative actions. First, in the past five years we have had economic growth which will support an increase in the Federal minimum wage. In the light of present economic conditions, I recommend its increase to ninety cents an hour. I also recommend that many others, at present excluded, be given the protection of a minimum wage. Second, I renew my recommendation of last year for amendment of the Labor Management Relations Act of 1947 to further the basic objectives of this statute. I especially call to the attention of the Congress amendments dealing with the right of economic strikers to vote in representation elections and the need for equalizing the obligation under the Act to file disclaimers of Communist affiliation. Third, the Administration will propose other important measures including occupational safety, workmen's compensation for longshoremen and harbor workers, and the "Eight Hour Laws" applicable to Federal contractors. Legislation will also be proposed respecting nonoccupational disability insurance and unemployment compensation in the District of Columbia. In considering human needs, the Federal Government must take special responsibility for citizens in its direct employ. On January 11 I shall propose a pay adjustment plan for civilian employees outside the Postal Field Service to correct inequities and increase individual pay rates. I shall also recommend voluntary health insurance on a contributory basis for Federal employees and their dependents. In keeping with the Group Life Insurance Act passed in the 83rd Congress, this protection should be provided on the group insurance principle and purchased from private facilities. Also on January 11 I shall recommend a modern pay plan, including pay increases, for postal field employees. As part of this program, and to carry forward our progress toward elimination of the large annual postal deficit. I shall renew my request for an increase in postal rates. Again I urge that in the future the fixing of rates be delegated to an impartial, independent body. More adequate training programs to equip career employees of the government to render improved public service will be recommended, as will improvements in the laws affecting employees serving on foreign assignments. Needed improvements in survivor, disability, and retirement benefits for Federal civilian and military personnel have been extensively considered by the Committee on Retirement Policy for Federal personnel. The Committee's proposals would strengthen and improve benefits for our career people in government, and I endorse their broad objectives. Full contributory coverage under old-age and survivors' insurance should be made available to all Federal personnel, just as in private industry. For career military personnel, the protection of the old-age and survivors' insurance system would be an important and long-needed addition, especially to their present unequal and inadequate survivorship protection. The military retirement pay system should remain separate and unchanged. Certain adjustments in the present civilian personnel retirement systems will be needed to reflect the additional protection of old-age and survivors' insurance. However, these systems also are a basic part of a total compensation and should be separately and independently retained. I also urge the Congress to approve a long overdue increase in the salaries of Members of the Congress and of the Federal judiciary to a level commensurate with their heavy responsibilities. Our concern for the individual in our country requires that we consider several additional problems. We must continue our program to help our Indian citizens improve their lot and make their full contribution to national life. Two years ago I advised the Congress of injustices under existing immigration laws. Through humane administration, the Department of Justice is doing what it legally can to alleviate hardships. Clearance of aliens before arrival has been initiated, and except for criminal offenders, the imprisonment of aliens awaiting admission or deportation has been stopped. Certain provisions of law, however, have the effect of compelling action in respect to aliens which are inequitable in some instances and discriminatory in others. These provisions should be corrected in this session of the Congress. As the complex problems of Alaska are resolved, that Territory should expect to achieve statehood. In the meantime, there is no justification for deferring the admission to statehood of Hawaii. I again urge approval of this measure. We have three splendid opportunities to demonstrate the strength of our belief in the right of suffrage. First, I again urge that a Constitutional amendment be submitted to the States to reduce the voting age for Federal elections. Second, I renew my request that the principle of self-government be extended and the right of suffrage granted to the citizens of the District of Columbia. Third, I again recommend that we work with the States to preserve the voting fights of citizens in the nation's service overseas. In our determination to keep faith with those who in the past have met the highest call of citizenship, we now have under study the system of benefits for veterans and for surviving dependents of deceased veterans and servicemen. Studies will be undertaken to determine the need for measures to ease the readjustment to civilian life of men required to enter the armed forces for two years of service. In the advancement of the various activities which will make our civilization endure and flourish, the Federal Government should do more to give official recognition to the importance of the arts and other cultural activities. I shall recommend the establishment of a Federal Advisory Commission on the Arts within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, to advise the Federal Government on ways to encourage artistic endeavor and appreciation. I shall also propose that awards of merit be established whereby we can honor our fellow citizens who make great contribution to the advancement of our civilization. Every citizen rightly expects efficient and economical administration of these many government programs I have outlined today. I strongly recommend extension of the Reorganization Act and the law establishing the Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, both of which expire this spring. Thus the Congress will assure continuation of the excellent progress recently made in improving government organization and administration. In this connection we are looking forward with great interest to the reports which will soon be going to the Congress from the Commission on Organization of the Executive Branch of the Government. I am sure that these studies, made under the chairmanship of former President Herbert Hoover with the assistance of more than two hundred distinguished citizens, will be of great value in paving the way toward more efficiency and economy in the government. And now, I return to the point at which I began--the faith of our people. 
The many programs here summarized are, I believe, in full keeping with their needs, interests and aspirations. The obligations upon us are clear: To labor earnestly, patiently, prayerfully, for peace, for freedom, for justice, throughout the world; 
To keep our economy vigorous and free, that our people may lead fuller, happier lives; To advance, not merely by our words but by our acts, the determination of our government that every citizen shall have opportunity to develop to his fullest capacity. 
As we do these things, before us is a future filled with opportunity and hope. That future will be ours if in our time we keep alive the patience, the courage, the confidence in tomorrow, the deep faith, of the millions who, in years past, made and preserved us this nation. A decade ago, in the death and desolation of European battlefields, I saw the courage and resolution, I felt the inspiration, of American youth. In these young men I felt America's buoyant confidence and irresistible will-to-do. In them I saw, too, a devout America, humble before God. And so, I know with all my heart--and I deeply believe that all Americans know--that, despite the anxieties of this divided world, our faith, and the cause in which we all believe, will surely prevail. DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER
Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, Members of the Congress: First, I extend cordial greetings to the 84th Congress. We shall have much to do together; I am sure that we shall get it done--and, that we shall do it in harmony and good will. At the outset, I believe it would be well to remind ourselves of this great fundamental in our national life: our common belief that every human being is divinely endowed with dignity and worth and inalienable rights. This faith, with its corollary--that to grow and flourish people must be free--shapes the interests and aspirations of every American. From this deep faith have evolved three main purposes of our Federal Government: First, to maintain justice and freedom among ourselves and to champion them for others so that we may work effectively for enduring peace; Second, to help keep our economy vigorous and expanding, thus sustaining our international strength and assuring better jobs, better living, better opportunities for every citizen; And third, to concern ourselves with the human problems of our people so that every American may have the opportunity to lead a healthy, productive and rewarding life. Foremost among these broad purposes of government is our support of freedom, justice and peace. It is of the utmost importance, that each of us understand the true nature of the struggle now taking place in the world. It is not a struggle merely of economic theories, or of forms of government, or of military power. At issue is the true nature of man. Either man is the creature whom the Psalmist described as "a little lower than the angels," crowned with glory and honor, holding "dominion over the works" of his Creator; or man is a soulless, animated machine to be enslaved, used and consumed by the state for its own glorification. It is, therefore, a struggle which goes to the roots of the human spirit, and its shadow falls across the long sweep of man's destiny. This prize, so precious, so fraught with ultimate meaning, is the true object of the contending forces in the world. In the past year, there has been progress justifying hope, both for continuing peace and for the ultimate rule of freedom and justice in the world. Free nations are collectively stronger than at any time in recent years. Just as nations of this Hemisphere, in the historic Caracas and Rio conferences, have closed ranks against imperialistic Communism and strengthened their economic ties, so free nations elsewhere have forged new bonds of unity. Recent agreements between Turkey and Pakistan have laid a foundation for increased strength in the Middle East. With our understanding support, Egypt and Britain, Yugoslavia and Italy, Britain and Iran have resolved dangerous differences. The security of the Mediterranean has been enhanced by an alliance among Greece, Turkey and Yugoslavia. Agreements in Western Europe have paved the way for unity to replace past divisions which have undermined Europe's economic and military vitality. The defense of the West appears likely at last to include a free, democratic Germany participating as an equal in the councils of NATO. In Asia and the Pacific, the pending Manila Pact supplements our treaties with Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Korea and Japan and our prospective treaty with the Republic of China. These pacts stand as solemn warning that future military aggression and subversion against the free nations of Asia will meet united response. The Pacific Charter, also adopted at Manila, is a milestone in the development of human freedom and self-government in the Pacific area. Under the auspices of the United Nations, there is promise of progress in our country's plan for the peaceful use of atomic energy. Finally, today the world is at peace. It is, to be sure, an secure peace. Yet all humanity finds hope in the simple fact that for an appreciable time there has been no active major battlefield on earth. This same fact inspires us to work all the more effectively with other nations for the well-being, the freedom, the dignity, of every human on earth. These developments are heartening indeed, and we are hopeful of continuing progress. But sobering problems remain. The massive military machines and ambitions of the Soviet-Communist bloc still create uneasiness in the world. All of us are aware of the continuing reliance of the Soviet Communists on military force, of the power of their weapons, of their present resistance to realistic armament limitation, and of their continuing effort to dominate or intimidate free nations on their periphery. Their steadily growing power includes an increasing strength in nuclear weapons. This power, combined with the proclaimed intentions of the Communist leaders to communize the world, is the threat confronting us today. To protect our nations and our peoples from the catastrophe of a nuclear holocaust, free nations must maintain countervailing military power to persuade the Communists of the futility of seeking their ends through aggression. If Communist rulers understand that America's response to aggression will be swift and decisive--that never shall we buy peace at the expense of honor or faith--they will be powerfully deterred from launching a military venture engulfing their own peoples and many others in disaster. This, of course, is merely world stalemate. But in this stalemate each of us may and must exercise his high duty to strive in every honorable way for enduring peace. The military threat is but one menace to our freedom and security. We must not only deter aggression; we must also frustrate the effort of Communists to gain their goals by subversion. To this end, free nations must maintain and reinforce their cohesion, their internal security, their political and economic vitality, and their faith in freedom. In such a world, America's course is dear: We must tirelessly labor to make the peace more just and durable. We must strengthen the collective defense under the United Nations Charter and gird ourselves with sufficient military strength and productive capacity to discourage resort to war and protect our nation's vital interests. We must continue to support and strengthen the United Nations. At this very moment, by vote of the United Nations General Assembly, its Secretary-General is in Communist China on a mission of deepest concern to all Americans: seeking the release of our never-to-be-forgotten American aviators and all other United Nations prisoners wrongfully detained by the Communist regime. We must also encourage the efforts being made in the United Nations to limit armaments and to harness the atom to peaceful rise. We must expand international trade and investment and assist friendly nations whose own best efforts are still insufficient to provide the strength essential to the security of the free world. We must be willing to use the processes of negotiation whenever they will advance the because of just and secure peace to which the United States and other free nations are dedicated. In respect to all these matters, we must, through a vigorous information program, keep the peoples of the world truthfully advised of our actions and purposes. This problem has been attacked with new vigor during the past months. I urge that the Congress give its earnest consideration to the great advantages that can accrue to our country through the successful operations of this program. We must also carry forward our educational exchange program. This sharing of knowledge and experience between our citizens and those of free countries is a powerful factor in the development and maintenance of true partnership among free peoples. To advance these many efforts, the Congress must act in this session on appropriations, legislation, and treaties. Today I shall mention especially our foreign economic and military programs. The recent economic progress in many free nations has been most heartening. The productivity of labor and the production of goods and services are increasing in ever-widening areas. There is a growing will to improve the living standards of all men. This progress is important to all our people. It promises us allies who are strong and self-reliant; it promises a growing world market for the products of our mines, our factories, and our farms. But only through steady effort can we hope to continue this progress. Barriers still impede trade and the flow of capital needed to develop each nation's human and material resources. Wise reduction of these barriers is a long-term objective of our foreign economic policy--a policy of an evolutionary and selective nature, assuring broad benefits to our own and other peoples. We must gradually reduce certain tariff obstacles to trade. These actions should, of course, be accompanied by a similar lowering of trade barriers by other nations, so that we may move steadily toward greater economic advantage for all. We must further simplify customs administration and procedures. We must facilitate the flow of capital and continue technical assistance, both directly and through the United Nations, to less developed countries to strengthen their independence and raise their living standards. Many another step must be taken in and among the nations of the free world to release forces of private initiative. In our own nation, these forces have brought strength and prosperity; once released, they will generate rising incomes in these other countries with which to buy the products of American industry, labor and agriculture. On January 10, by special message, I shall submit specific recommendations for carrying forward the legislative phases of our foreign economic policy. Our many efforts to build a better world include the maintenance of our military strength. This is a vast undertaking. Major national security programs consume two-thirds of the entire Federal budget. Over four million Americans--servicemen and civilians--are on the rolls of the defense establishment. During the past two years, by eliminating duplication and overstaffing, by improved procurement and inventory controls, and by concentrating on the essentials, many billions of dollars have been saved in our defense activities. I should like to mention certain fundamentals underlying this vast program. First, a realistic limitation of armaments and an enduring, just peace remain our national goals; we maintain powerful military forces because there is no present alternative--forces designed for deterrent and defensive purposes alone but able instantly to strike back with destructive power in response to an attack. Second, we must stay alert to the fact that undue reliance on one weapon or preparation for only one kind of warfare simply invites an enemy to resort to another. We must, therefore, keep in our armed forces balance and flexibility adequate for our purposes and objectives. Third, to keep our armed forces abreast of the advances of science, our military planning must be flexible enough to utilize the new weapons and techniques which flow ever more speedily from our research and development programs. The forthcoming military budget therefore emphasizes modern airpower in the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps and increases the emphasis on new weapons, especially those of rapid and destructive striking power. It assures the maintenance of effective, retaliatory force as the principal deterrent to overt aggression. It accelerates the continental defense program and the build-up of ready military reserve forces. It continues a vigorous program of stockpiling strategic and critical materials and strengthening our mobilization base. The budget also contemplates the strategic concentration of our strength through redeployment of certain forces. It provides for reduction of forces in certain categories and their expansion in others, to fit them to the military realities of our time. These emphases in our defense planning have been made at my personal direction after long and thoughtful study. In my judgment, they will give our nation a defense accurately adjusted to the national need. Fourth, pending a world agreement on armament limitation, we must continue to improve and expand our supplies of nuclear weapons for our land, naval and air forces, while, at the same time, continuing our encouraging progress in the peaceful use of atomic power. And fifth, in the administration of these costly programs, we must demand the utmost in efficiency and ingenuity. We must assure our people not only of adequate protection but also of a defense that can be carried forward from year to year until the threat of aggression has disappeared. To help maintain this kind of armed strength and improve its efficiency, I must urge the enactment of several important measures in this session. The first concerns the selective service act which expires next June 30th. For the foreseeable future, our standing forces must remain much larger than voluntary methods can sustain. We must, therefore, extend the statutory authority to induct men for two years of military service. The second kind of measure concerns the rapid turnover of our most experienced servicemen. This process seriously weakens the combat readiness of our armed forces and is exorbitantly expensive. To encourage more trained servicemen to remain in uniform, I shall, on the thirteenth of this month, propose a number of measures to increase the attractions of a military career. These measures will include more adequate medical care for dependents, survivors' benefits, more and better housing, and selective adjustments in military pay and other allowances. And third--also on January 13--I shall present a program to rebuild and strengthen the civilian components of our armed forces. This is a comprehensive program, designed to make better use of our manpower of military age. Because it will go far in assuring fair and equitable participation in military training and service, it is of particular importance to our combat veterans. In keeping with the historic military policy of our Republic, this program is designed to build and maintain powerful civilian reserves immediately capable of effective military service in an emergency in lieu of maintaining active duty forces in excess of the nation's immediate need. Maintenance of an effective defense requires continuance of our aggressive attack on subversion at home. In this effort we have, in the past two years, made excellent progress. FBI investigations have been powerfully reinforced by a new Internal Security Division in the Department of Justice; the security activities of the Immigration and Naturalization Service have been revitalized; an improved and strengthened security system is in effect throughout the government; the Department of Justice and the FBI have been armed with effective new legal weapons forged by the 83rd Congress. We shall continue to ferret out and to destroy Communist subversion. We shall, in the process, carefully preserve our traditions and the basic rights of our citizens. Our civil defense program is also a key element in the protection of our country. We are developing cooperative methods with State Governors, Mayors, and voluntary citizen groups, as well as among Federal agencies, in building the civil defense organization. Its significance in time of war is obvious; its swift assistance in disaster areas last year proved its importance in time of peace. An industry capable of rapid expansion and essential materials and facilities swiftly available in time of emergency are indispensable to our defense. I urge, therefore, a two-year extension of the Defense Production Act and Title II of the First War Powers Act of 1941. These are cornerstones of our program for the development and maintenance of an adequate mobilization base. At this point, I should like to make this additional observation. Our quest for peace and freedom necessarily presumes that we who hold positions of public trust must rise above self and section--that we must subordinate to the general good our partisan, our personal pride and prejudice. Tirelessly, with united purpose, we must fortify the material and spiritual foundations of this land of freedom and of free nations throughout the world. As never before, there is need for unhesitating cooperation among the branches of our government. At this time the executive and legislative branches are under the management of different political parties. This fact places both parties on trial before the American people. In less perilous days of the past, division of governmental responsibility among our great parties has produced a paralyzing indecision. We must not let this happen in our time. We must avoid a paralysis of the will for peace and international security. In the traditionally bipartisan areas--military security and foreign relations--I can report to you that I have already, with the leaders of this Congress, expressed assurances of unreserved cooperation. Yet, the strength of our country requires more than mere maintenance of military strength and success in foreign affairs; these vital matters are in turn dependent upon concerted and vigorous action in a number of supporting programs. I say, therefore, to the 84th Congress: In all areas basic to the strength of America, there will be--to the extent I can insure them--cooperative, constructive relations between the Executive and Legislative Branches of this government. Let the general good be our yardstick on every great issue of our time. Our efforts to defend our freedom and to secure a just peace are, of course, inseparable from the second great purpose of our government: to help maintain a strong, growing economy--an economy vigorous and free, in which there are ever-increasing opportunities, just rewards for effort, and a stable prosperity that is widely shared. In the past two years, many important governmental Actions helped our economy adjust to conditions of peace; these and other actions created a climate for renewed economic growth. Controls were removed from wages, prices and materials. Tax revisions encouraged increased private spending and employment. Federal expenditures were sharply reduced, making possible a record tax cut. These actions, together with flexible monetary and debt management policies, helped to halt inflation and stabilize the value of the dollar. A program of cooperation and partnership in resource development was begun. Social security and unemployment insurance laws were broadened and strengthened. New laws started the long process of balancing farm production with farm markets. Expanded shipbuilding and stockpiling programs strengthened key sectors of the economy, while improving our mobilization base. A comprehensive new housing law brought impressive progress in an area fundamental to our economic strength and closed loopholes in the old laws permitting dishonest manipulation. Many of these programs are just beginning to exert their main stimulating effect upon the economy generally and upon specific communities and industries throughout the country. The past year--1954--was one of the most prosperous years in our history. Business activity now surges with new strength. Production is rising. Employment is high. Toward the end of last year average weekly wages in manufacturing were higher than ever before. Personal income after taxes is at a record level. So is consumer spending. Construction activity is reaching new peaks. Export demand for our goods is strong. State and local government expenditures on public works are rising. Savings are high, and credit is readily available. So, today, the transition to a peacetime economy is largely behind us. The economic outlook is good. The many promising factors I have mentioned do not guarantee sustained economic expansion; however, they do give us a strong position from which to carry forward our economic growth. If we as a people act wisely, within ten years our annual national output can rise from its present level of about $360 billion to $500 billion, measured in dollars of stable buying power. My Budget Message on January 17, the Economic Report on the 20th of this month, and several special messages will set forth in detail major programs to foster the growth of our economy and to protect the integrity of the people's money. Today I shall discuss these programs only in general terms. Government efficiency and economy remain essential to steady progress toward a balanced budget. More than ten billion dollars were cut from the spending program proposed in the budget of January 9, 1953. Expenditures of that year were six and a half billion below those of the previous year. In the current fiscal year, government spending will be nearly four and a half billion dollars less than in the fiscal year which ended last June 30. New spending authority has been held below expenditures, reducing government obligations accumulated over the years. Last year we had a large tax cut and, for the first time in seventy-five years a basic revision of Federal tax laws. It is now clear that defense and other essential government costs must remain at a level precluding further tax reductions this year. Although excise and corporation income taxes must, therefore, be continued at their present rates, further tax cuts will be possible when justified by lower expenditures and by revenue increases arising from the nation's economic growth. I am hopeful that such reductions can be made next year. At the foundation of our economic growth are the raw materials and energy produced from our minerals and fuels, lands and forests, and water resources. With respect to them, I believe that the nation must adhere to three fundamental policies: first, to develop, wisely use and conserve basic resources from generation to generation; second, to follow the historic pattern of developing these resources primarily by private citizens under fair provisions of law, including restraints for proper conservation; and third, to treat resource development as a partnership undertaking--a partnership in which the participation of private citizens and State and local governments is as necessary as Federal participation. This policy of partnership and cooperation is producing good results, most immediately noticeable in respect to water resources. First, it has encouraged local public bodies and private citizens to plan their own power sources. Increasing numbers of applications to the Federal Power Commission to conduct surveys and prepare plans for power development, notably in the Columbia River Basin, are evidence of local response. Second, the Federal Government and local and private organizations have been encouraged to coordinate their developments. This is important because Federal hydroelectric developments supply but a small fraction of the nation's power needs. Such partnership projects as Priest Rapids in Washington, the Coosa River development in Alabama, and Markham Ferry in Oklahoma already have the approval of the Congress. This year justifiable projects of a similar nature will again have Administration support. Third, the Federal Government must shoulder its own partnership obligations by undertaking projects of such complexity and size that their success requires Federal development. In keeping with this principle, I again urge the Congress to approve the development of the Upper Colorado River Basin to conserve and assure better use of precious water essential to the future of the West. In addition, the 1956 budget will recommend appropriations to start six new reclamation and more than thirty new Corps of Engineers projects of varying size. Going projects and investigations of potential new resource developments will be continued. Although this partnership approach is producing encouraging results, its full success requires a nation-wide comprehensive water resources policy firmly based in law. Such a policy is under preparation and when completed will be submitted to the Congress. In the interest of their proper conservation, development and use, continued vigilance will be maintained over our fisheries, wildlife resources, the national parks and forests, and the public lands; and we shall continue to encourage an orderly development of the nation's mineral resources. A modern, efficient highway system is essential to meet the needs of our growing population, our expanding economy, and our national security. We are accelerating our highway improvement program as rapidly as possible under existing State and Federal laws and authorizations. However, this effort will not in itself assure our people of an adequate highway system. On my recommendation, this problem has been carefully considered by the Conference of State Governors and by a special Advisory Committee on a National Highway Program, composed of leading private citizens. I have received the recommendations of the Governors' Conference and will shortly receive the views of the special Advisory Committee. Aided by their findings, I shall submit on January 27th detailed recommendations which will meet our most pressing national highway needs. In further recognition of the importance of transportation to our economic strength and security, the Administration, through a Cabinet committee, is thoroughly examining existing Federal transportation policies to determine their effect on the adequacy of transportation services. This is the first such comprehensive review directly undertaken by the Executive Branch of the government in modern times. We are not only examining major problems facing the various modes of transport; we are also studying closely the inter-relationships of civilian and government requirements for transportation. Legislation will be recommended to correct policy deficiencies which we may find. The nation's public works activities are tremendous in scope. It is expected that more than $ 12 billion will be expended in 1955 for the development of land, water and other resources; control of floods, and navigation and harbor improvements; construction of roads, schools, and municipal water supplies, and disposal of domestic and industrial wastes. Many of the Federal, State and local agencies responsible for this work are, in their separate capacities, highly efficient. But public works activities are closely inter-related and have a substantial influence on the growth of the country. Moreover, in times of threatening economic contraction, they may become a valuable sustaining force. To these ends, efficient planning and execution of the nation's public works require both the coordination of Federal activities and effective cooperation with State and local governments. The Council of Economic Advisers, through its public works planning section, has made important advances during the past year in effecting this coordination and cooperation. In view of the success of these initial efforts, and to give more emphasis and continuity to this essential coordination, I shall request the Congress to appropriate funds for the support of an Office of Coordinator of Public Works in the Executive Office of the President. A most significant element in our growing economy is an agriculture that is stable, prosperous and free. The problems of our agriculture have evolved over many years and cannot be solved overnight; nevertheless, governmental actions last year hold great promise of fostering a better balance between production and markets and, consequently, a better and more stable income for our farmers. Through vigorous administration and through new authority provided by the 83rd Congress, surplus farm products are now moving into consumption. From February 1953 through November 1954, the rate of increase of government-held surpluses has been reduced by our moving into use more than 2.3 billion dollars' worth of government-owned farm commodities; this amount is equal to more than seven percent of a year's production of all our farms and ranches. Domestic consumption remains high, and farm exports will be higher than last year. As a result of the flexibility provided by the Agricultural Act of 1954, we can move toward less restrictive acreage controls. Thus, farm production is gradually adjusting to markets, markets are being expanded, and stocks are moving into use. We can now look forward to an easing of the influences depressing farm prices, to reduced government expenditures for purchase of surplus products, and to less Federal intrusion into the lives and plans of our farm people. Agricultural programs have been redirected toward better balance, greater stability and sustained prosperity. We are headed in the right direction. I urgently recommend to the Congress that we continue resolutely on this road. Greater attention must be directed to the needs of low-income farm families. Twenty-eight per cent of our farm-operator families have net cash incomes of less than $1,000 per year. Last year, at my request, careful studies were made of the problems of these farm people. I shall later submit recommendations designed to assure the steady alleviation of their most pressing concerns. Because drought also remains a serious agricultural problem, I shall recommend legislation to strengthen Federal disaster assistance programs. This legislation will prescribe an improved appraisal of need, better adjustment of the various programs to local conditions, and a more equitable sharing of costs between the States and the Federal Government. The prosperity of our small business enterprises is an indispensable element in the maintenance of our economic strength. Creation of the Small Business Administration and recently enacted tax laws facilitating small business expansion are but two of many important steps we have taken to encourage our smaller enterprises. I recommend that the Congress extend the Small Business Act of 1953 which is due to expire next June. We come now to the third great purpose of our government-its concern for the health, productivity and well-being of all our people. Every citizen wants to give full expression to his God-given talents and abilities and to have the recognition and respect accorded under our religious and political traditions. Americans also want a good material standard of living--not simply to accumulate possessions, but to fulfill a legitimate aspiration for an environment in which their families may live meaningful and happy lives. Our people are committed, therefore, to the creation and preservation of opportunity for every citizen to lead a more rewarding life. They are equally committed to the alleviation of misfortune and distress among their fellow citizens. The aspirations of most of our people can best be fulfilled through their own enterprise and initiative, without government interference. This Administration, therefore, follows two simple rules: first, the Federal Government should perform an essential task only when it cannot otherwise be adequately performed; and second, in performing that task, our government must not impair the self-respect, freedom and incentive of the individual. So long as these two rules are observed, the government can fully meet its obligation without creating a dependent population or a domineering bureaucracy. During the past two years, notable advances were made in these functions of government. Protection of old-age and survivors' insurance was extended to an additional ten million of our people, and the benefits were substantially increased. Legislation was enacted to provide unemployment insurance protection to some four million additional Americans. Stabilization of living costs and the halting of inflation protected the value of pensions and savings. A broad program now helps to bring good homes within the reach of the great majority of our people. With the States, we are providing rehabilitation facilities and more clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes for patients with chronic illnesses. Also with the States, we have begun a great and fruitful expansion in the restoration of disabled persons to employment and useful lives. In the areas of Federal responsibility, we have made historic progress in eliminating from among our people demeaning practices based on race or color. All of us may be proud of these achievements during the past two years. Yet essential Federal tasks remain to be done. As part of our efforts to provide decent, safe and sanitary housing for low-income families, we must carry forward the housing program authorized during the 83rd Congress. We must also authorize contracts for a firm program of 35,000 additional public housing units in each of the next two fiscal years. This program will meet the most pressing obligations of the Federal Government into the 1958 fiscal year for planning and building public housing. By that time the private building industry, aided by the Housing Act of 1954, will have had the opportunity to assume its full role in providing adequate housing for our low income families. The health of our people is one of our most precious assets. Preventable sickness should be prevented; knowledge available to combat disease and disability should be fully used. Otherwise, we as a people are guilty not only of neglect of human suffering but also of wasting our national strength. Constant advances in medical care are not available to enough of our citizens. Clearly our nation must do more to reduce the impact of accident and disease. Two fundamental problems confront us: first, high and ever-rising costs of health services; second, serious gaps and shortages in these services. By special message on January 24, I shall propose a coordinated program to strengthen and improve existing health services. This program will continue to reject socialized medicine. It will emphasize individual and local responsibility. Under it the Federal Government will neither dominate nor direct, but serve as a helpful partner. Within this framework, the program can be broad in scope. My recommendations will include a Federal health reinsurance service to encourage the development of more and better voluntary health insurance coverage by private organizations. I shall also recommend measures to improve the medical care of that group of our citizens who, because of need, receive Federal-State public assistance. These two proposals will help more of our people to meet the costs of health services. To reduce the gaps in these services, I shall propose: New measures to facilitate construction of needed health facilities and help reduce shortages of trained health personnel; Vigorous steps to combat the misery and national loss involved in mental illness; Improved services for crippled children and for maternal and child health; Better consumer protection under our existing pure food and drug laws; and, finally, Strengthened programs to combat the increasingly serious pollution of our rivers and streams and the growing problem of air pollution. These measures together constitute a comprehensive program holding rich promise for better health for all of our people. Last year's expansion of social security coverage and our new program of improved medical care for public assistance recipients together suggest modification of the formula for Federal sharing in old age assistance payments. I recommend modification of the formula where such payments will, in the future, supplement benefits received under the old age and survivors insurance system. It is the inalienable right of every person, from childhood on, to have access to knowledge. In our form of society, this right of the individual takes on a special meaning, for the education of all our citizens is imperative to the maintenance and invigoration of America's free institutions. Today, we face grave educational problems. Effective and up-to-date analyses of these problems and their solutions are being carried forward through the individual State conferences and the White House Conference to be completed this year. However, such factors as population growth, additional responsibilities of schools, and increased and longer school attendance have produced an unprecedented classroom shortage. This shortage is of immediate concern to all of our people. Positive, affirmative action must be taken now. Without impairing in any way the responsibilities of our States, localities, communities, or families, the Federal government can and should serve as an effective-catalyst in dealing with this problem. I shall forward a special message to the Congress on February 15, presenting an affirmative program dealing with this shortage. To help the States do a better and more timely job, we must strengthen their resources for preventing and dealing with juvenile delinquency. I shall propose Federal legislation to assist the States to promote concerted action in dealing with this nationwide problem. I shall carry forward the vigorous efforts of the Administration to improve the international control of the traffic in narcotics and, in cooperation with State and local agencies, to combat narcotic addiction in our country. I should like to speak now of additional matters of importance to all our people and especially to our wage earners. During the past year certain industrial changes and the readjustment of the economy to conditions of peace brought unemployment and other difficulties to various localities and industries. These problems are engaging our most earnest attention. But for the overwhelming majority of our working people, the past year has meant good jobs. Moreover, the earnings and savings of our wage earners are no longer depreciating in value. Because of cooperative relations between labor and management, fewer working days were lost through strikes in 1954 than in any year in the past decade. The outlook for our wage earners can be made still more promising by several legislative actions. First, in the past five years we have had economic growth which will support an increase in the Federal minimum wage. In the light of present economic conditions, I recommend its increase to ninety cents an hour. I also recommend that many others, at present excluded, be given the protection of a minimum wage. Second, I renew my recommendation of last year for amendment of the Labor Management Relations Act of 1947 to further the basic objectives of this statute. I especially call to the attention of the Congress amendments dealing with the right of economic strikers to vote in representation elections and the need for equalizing the obligation under the Act to file disclaimers of Communist affiliation. Third, the Administration will propose other important measures including occupational safety, workmen's compensation for longshoremen and harbor workers, and the "Eight Hour Laws" applicable to Federal contractors. Legislation will also be proposed respecting nonoccupational disability insurance and unemployment compensation in the District of Columbia. In considering human needs, the Federal Government must take special responsibility for citizens in its direct employ. On January 11 I shall propose a pay adjustment plan for civilian employees outside the Postal Field Service to correct inequities and increase individual pay rates. I shall also recommend voluntary health insurance on a contributory basis for Federal employees and their dependents. In keeping with the Group Life Insurance Act passed in the 83rd Congress, this protection should be provided on the group insurance principle and purchased from private facilities. Also on January 11 I shall recommend a modern pay plan, including pay increases, for postal field employees. As part of this program, and to carry forward our progress toward elimination of the large annual postal deficit. I shall renew my request for an increase in postal rates. Again I urge that in the future the fixing of rates be delegated to an impartial, independent body. More adequate training programs to equip career employees of the government to render improved public service will be recommended, as will improvements in the laws affecting employees serving on foreign assignments. Needed improvements in survivor, disability, and retirement benefits for Federal civilian and military personnel have been extensively considered by the Committee on Retirement Policy for Federal personnel. The Committee's proposals would strengthen and improve benefits for our career people in government, and I endorse their broad objectives. Full contributory coverage under old-age and survivors' insurance should be made available to all Federal personnel, just as in private industry. For career military personnel, the protection of the old-age and survivors' insurance system would be an important and long-needed addition, especially to their present unequal and inadequate survivorship protection. The military retirement pay system should remain separate and unchanged. Certain adjustments in the present civilian personnel retirement systems will be needed to reflect the additional protection of old-age and survivors' insurance. However, these systems also are a basic part of a total compensation and should be separately and independently retained. I also urge the Congress to approve a long overdue increase in the salaries of Members of the Congress and of the Federal judiciary to a level commensurate with their heavy responsibilities. Our concern for the individual in our country requires that we consider several additional problems. We must continue our program to help our Indian citizens improve their lot and make their full contribution to national life. Two years ago I advised the Congress of injustices under existing immigration laws. Through humane administration, the Department of Justice is doing what it legally can to alleviate hardships. Clearance of aliens before arrival has been initiated, and except for criminal offenders, the imprisonment of aliens awaiting admission or deportation has been stopped. Certain provisions of law, however, have the effect of compelling action in respect to aliens which are inequitable in some instances and discriminatory in others. These provisions should be corrected in this session of the Congress. As the complex problems of Alaska are resolved, that Territory should expect to achieve statehood. In the meantime, there is no justification for deferring the admission to statehood of Hawaii. I again urge approval of this measure. We have three splendid opportunities to demonstrate the strength of our belief in the right of suffrage. First, I again urge that a Constitutional amendment be submitted to the States to reduce the voting age for Federal elections. Second, I renew my request that the principle of self-government be extended and the right of suffrage granted to the citizens of the District of Columbia. Third, I again recommend that we work with the States to preserve the voting fights of citizens in the nation's service overseas. In our determination to keep faith with those who in the past have met the highest call of citizenship, we now have under study the system of benefits for veterans and for surviving dependents of deceased veterans and servicemen. Studies will be undertaken to determine the need for measures to ease the readjustment to civilian life of men required to enter the armed forces for two years of service. In the advancement of the various activities which will make our civilization endure and flourish, the Federal Government should do more to give official recognition to the importance of the arts and other cultural activities. I shall recommend the establishment of a Federal Advisory Commission on the Arts within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, to advise the Federal Government on ways to encourage artistic endeavor and appreciation. I shall also propose that awards of merit be established whereby we can honor our fellow citizens who make great contribution to the advancement of our civilization. Every citizen rightly expects efficient and economical administration of these many government programs I have outlined today. I strongly recommend extension of the Reorganization Act and the law establishing the Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, both of which expire this spring. Thus the Congress will assure continuation of the excellent progress recently made in improving government organization and administration. In this connection we are looking forward with great interest to the reports which will soon be going to the Congress from the Commission on Organization of the Executive Branch of the Government. I am sure that these studies, made under the chairmanship of former President Herbert Hoover with the assistance of more than two hundred distinguished citizens, will be of great value in paving the way toward more efficiency and economy in the government. And now, I return to the point at which I began--the faith of our people. The many programs here summarized are, I believe, in full keeping with their needs, interests and aspirations. The obligations upon us are clear: To labor earnestly, patiently, prayerfully, for peace, for freedom, for justice, throughout the world; To keep our economy vigorous and free, that our people may lead fuller, happier lives; To advance, not merely by our words but by our acts, the determination of our government that every citizen shall have opportunity to develop to his fullest capacity. As we do these things, before us is a future filled with opportunity and hope. That future will be ours if in our time we keep alive the patience, the courage, the confidence in tomorrow, the deep faith, of the millions who, in years past, made and preserved us this nation. A decade ago, in the death and desolation of European battlefields, I saw the courage and resolution, I felt the inspiration, of American youth. In these young men I felt America's buoyant confidence and irresistible will-to-do. In them I saw, too, a devout America, humble before God. And so, I know with all my heart--and I deeply believe that all Americans know--that, despite the anxieties of this divided world, our faith, and the because in which we all believe, will surely prevail. DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER
president speaker members of the congress first i extend cordial greetings to the 84th congress we shall have much to do together i am sure that we shall get it done and that we shall do it in harmony and good will at the outset i believe it would be well to remind ourselves of this great fundamental in our national life our common belief that every human being is divinely endowed with dignity and worth and inalienable rights this faith with its corollary that to grow and flourish people must be free shapes the interests and aspirations of every american from this deep faith have evolved three main purposes of our federal government first to maintain justice and freedom among ourselves and to champion them for others so that we may work effectively for enduring peace second to help keep our economy vigorous and expanding thus sustaining our international strength and assuring better jobs better living better opportunities for every citizen and third to concern ourselves with the human problems of our people so that every american may have the opportunity to lead a healthy productive and rewarding life foremost among these broad purposes of government is our support of freedom justice and peace it is of the utmost importance that each of us understand the true nature of the struggle now taking place in the world it is not a struggle merely of economic theories or of forms of government or of military power at issue is the true nature of man either man is the creature whom the psalmist described as a little lower than the angels crowned with glory and honor holding dominion over the works of his creator or man is a soulless animated machine to be enslaved used and consumed by the state for its own glorification it is therefore a struggle which goes to the roots of the human spirit and its shadow falls across the long sweep of man destiny this prize so precious so fraught with ultimate meaning is the true object of the contending forces in the world in the past year there has been progress justifying hope both for continuing peace and for the ultimate rule of freedom and justice in the world free nations are collectively stronger than at any time in recent years just as nations of this hemisphere in the historic caracas and rio conferences have closed ranks against imperialistic communism and strengthened their economic ties so free nations elsewhere have forged new bonds of unity recent agreements between turkey and pakistan have laid a foundation for increased strength in the middle east with our understanding support egypt and britain yugoslavia and italy britain and iran have resolved dangerous differences the security of the mediterranean has been enhanced by an alliance among greece turkey and yugoslavia agreements in western europe have paved the way for unity to replace past divisions which have undermined europe economic and military vitality the defense of the west appears likely at last to include a free democratic germany participating as an equal in the councils of nato in asia and the pacific the pending manila pact supplements our treaties with australia new zealand the philippines korea and japan and our prospective treaty with the republic of china these pacts stand as solemn warning that future military aggression and subversion against the free nations of asia will meet united response the pacific charter also adopted at manila is a milestone in the development of human freedom and in the pacific area under the auspices of the united nations there is promise of progress in our country plan for the peaceful use of atomic energy finally today the world is at peace it is to be sure an secure peace yet all humanity finds hope in the simple fact that for an appreciable time there has been no active major battlefield on earth this same fact inspires us to work all the more effectively with other nations for the the freedom the dignity of every human on earth these developments are heartening indeed and we are hopeful of continuing progress but sobering problems remain the massive military machines and ambitions of the bloc still create uneasiness in the world all of us are aware of the continuing reliance of the soviet communists on military force of the power of their weapons of their present resistance to realistic armament limitation and of their continuing effort to dominate or intimidate free nations on their periphery their steadily growing power includes an increasing strength in nuclear weapons this power combined with the proclaimed intentions of the communist leaders to communize the world is the threat confronting us today to protect our nations and our peoples from the catastrophe of a nuclear holocaust free nations must maintain countervailing military power to persuade the communists of the futility of seeking their ends through aggression if communist rulers understand that america response to aggression will be swift and decisive that never shall we buy peace at the expense of honor or faith they will be powerfully deterred from launching a military venture engulfing their own peoples and many others in disaster this of course is merely world stalemate but in this stalemate each of us may and must exercise his high duty to strive in every honorable way for enduring peace the military threat is but one menace to our freedom and security we must not only deter aggression we must also frustrate the effort of communists to gain their goals by subversion to this end free nations must maintain and reinforce their cohesion their internal security their political and economic vitality and their faith in freedom in such a world america course is dear we must tirelessly labor to make the peace more just and durable we must strengthen the collective defense under the united nations charter and gird ourselves with sufficient military strength and productive capacity to discourage resort to war and protect our nation vital interests we must continue to support and strengthen the united nations at this very moment by vote of the united nations general assembly its is in communist china on a mission of deepest concern to all americans seeking the release of our american aviators and all other united nations prisoners wrongfully detained by the communist regime we must also encourage the efforts being made in the united nations to limit armaments and to harness the atom to peaceful rise we must expand international trade and investment and assist friendly nations whose own best efforts are still insufficient to provide the strength essential to the security of the free world we must be willing to use the processes of negotiation whenever they will advance the because of just and secure peace to which the united states and other free nations are dedicated in respect to all these matters we must through a vigorous information program keep the peoples of the world truthfully advised of our actions and purposes this problem has been attacked with new vigor during the past months i urge that the congress give its earnest consideration to the great advantages that can accrue to our country through the successful operations of this program we must also carry forward our educational exchange program this sharing of knowledge and experience between our citizens and those of free countries is a powerful factor in the development and maintenance of true partnership among free peoples to advance these many efforts the congress must act in this session on appropriations legislation and treaties today i shall mention especially our foreign economic and military programs the recent economic progress in many free nations has been most heartening the productivity of labor and the production of goods and services are increasing in areas there is a growing will to improve the living standards of all men this progress is important to all our people it promises us allies who are strong and it promises a growing world market for the products of our mines our factories and our farms but only through steady effort can we hope to continue this progress barriers still impede trade and the flow of capital needed to develop each nation human and material resources wise reduction of these barriers is a objective of our foreign economic policy a policy of an evolutionary and selective nature assuring broad benefits to our own and other peoples we must gradually reduce certain tariff obstacles to trade these actions should of course be accompanied by a similar lowering of trade barriers by other nations so that we may move steadily toward greater economic advantage for all we must further simplify customs administration and procedures we must facilitate the flow of capital and continue technical assistance both directly and through the united nations to less developed countries to strengthen their independence and raise their living standards many another step must be taken in and among the nations of the free world to release forces of private initiative in our own nation these forces have brought strength and prosperity once released they will generate rising incomes in these other countries with which to buy the products of american industry labor and agriculture on january 10 by special message i shall submit specific recommendations for carrying forward the legislative phases of our foreign economic policy our many efforts to build a better world include the maintenance of our military strength this is a vast undertaking major national security programs consume of the entire federal budget over four million americans servicemen and civilians are on the rolls of the defense establishment during the past two years by eliminating duplication and overstaffing by improved procurement and inventory controls and by concentrating on the essentials many billions of dollars have been saved in our defense activities i should like to mention certain fundamentals underlying this vast program first a realistic limitation of armaments and an enduring just peace remain our national goals we maintain powerful military forces because there is no present alternative forces designed for deterrent and defensive purposes alone but able instantly to strike back with destructive power in response to an attack second we must stay alert to the fact that undue reliance on one weapon or preparation for only one kind of warfare simply invites an enemy to resort to another we must therefore keep in our armed forces balance and flexibility adequate for our purposes and objectives third to keep our armed forces abreast of the advances of science our military planning must be flexible enough to utilize the new weapons and techniques which flow ever more speedily from our research and development programs the forthcoming military budget therefore emphasizes modern airpower in the air force navy and marine corps and increases the emphasis on new weapons especially those of rapid and destructive striking power it assures the maintenance of effective retaliatory force as the principal deterrent to overt aggression it accelerates the continental defense program and the of ready military reserve forces it continues a vigorous program of stockpiling strategic and critical materials and strengthening our mobilization base the budget also contemplates the strategic concentration of our strength through redeployment of certain forces it provides for reduction of forces in certain categories and their expansion in others to fit them to the military realities of our time these emphases in our defense planning have been made at my personal direction after long and thoughtful study in my judgment they will give our nation a defense accurately adjusted to the national need fourth pending a world agreement on armament limitation we must continue to improve and expand our supplies of nuclear weapons for our land naval and air forces while at the same time continuing our encouraging progress in the peaceful use of atomic power and fifth in the administration of these costly programs we must demand the utmost in efficiency and ingenuity we must assure our people not only of adequate protection but also of a defense that can be carried forward from year to year until the threat of aggression has disappeared to help maintain this kind of armed strength and improve its efficiency i must urge the enactment of several important measures in this session the first concerns the selective service act which expires next june 30th for the foreseeable future our standing forces must remain much larger than voluntary methods can sustain we must therefore extend the statutory authority to induct men for two years of military service the second kind of measure concerns the rapid turnover of our most experienced servicemen this process seriously weakens the combat readiness of our armed forces and is exorbitantly expensive to encourage more trained servicemen to remain in uniform i shall on the thirteenth of this month propose a number of measures to increase the attractions of a military career these measures will include more adequate medical care for dependents survivors benefits more and better housing and selective adjustments in military pay and other allowances and third also on january 13 i shall present a program to rebuild and strengthen the civilian components of our armed forces this is a comprehensive program designed to make better use of our manpower of military age because it will go far in assuring fair and equitable participation in military training and service it is of particular importance to our combat veterans in keeping with the historic military policy of our republic this program is designed to build and maintain powerful civilian reserves immediately capable of effective military service in an emergency in lieu of maintaining active duty forces in excess of the nation immediate need maintenance of an effective defense requires continuance of our aggressive attack on subversion at home in this effort we have in the past two years made excellent progress fbi investigations have been powerfully reinforced by a new internal security division in the department of justice the security activities of the immigration and naturalization service have been revitalized an improved and strengthened security system is in effect throughout the government the department of justice and the fbi have been armed with effective new legal weapons forged by the 83rd congress we shall continue to ferret out and to destroy communist subversion we shall in the process carefully preserve our traditions and the basic rights of our citizens our civil defense program is also a key element in the protection of our country we are developing cooperative methods with state governors mayors and voluntary citizen groups as well as among federal agencies in building the civil defense organization its significance in time of war is obvious its swift assistance in disaster areas last year proved its importance in time of peace an industry capable of rapid expansion and essential materials and facilities swiftly available in time of emergency are indispensable to our defense i urge therefore a extension of the defense production act and title ii of the first war powers act of 1941 these are cornerstones of our program for the development and maintenance of an adequate mobilization base at this point i should like to make this additional observation our quest for peace and freedom necessarily presumes that we who hold positions of public trust must rise above self and section that we must subordinate to the general good our partisan our personal pride and prejudice tirelessly with united purpose we must fortify the material and spiritual foundations of this land of freedom and of free nations throughout the world as never before there is need for unhesitating cooperation among the branches of our government at this time the executive and legislative branches are under the management of different political parties this fact places both parties on trial before the american people in less perilous days of the past division of governmental responsibility among our great parties has produced a paralyzing indecision we must not let this happen in our time we must avoid a paralysis of the will for peace and international security in the traditionally bipartisan areas military security and foreign relations i can report to you that i have already with the leaders of this congress expressed assurances of unreserved cooperation yet the strength of our country requires more than mere maintenance of military strength and success in foreign affairs these vital matters are in turn dependent upon concerted and vigorous action in a number of supporting programs i say therefore to the 84th congress in all areas basic to the strength of america there will be to the extent i can insure them cooperative constructive relations between the executive and legislative branches of this government let the general good be our yardstick on every great issue of our time our efforts to defend our freedom and to secure a just peace are of course inseparable from the second great purpose of our government to help maintain a strong growing economy an economy vigorous and free in which there are opportunities just rewards for effort and a stable prosperity that is widely shared in the past two years many important governmental actions helped our economy adjust to conditions of peace these and other actions created a climate for renewed economic growth controls were removed from wages prices and materials tax revisions encouraged increased private spending and employment federal expenditures were sharply reduced making possible a record tax cut these actions together with flexible monetary and debt management policies helped to halt inflation and stabilize the value of the dollar a program of cooperation and partnership in resource development was begun social security and unemployment insurance laws were broadened and strengthened new laws started the long process of balancing farm production with farm markets expanded shipbuilding and stockpiling programs strengthened key sectors of the economy while improving our mobilization base a comprehensive new housing law brought impressive progress in an area fundamental to our economic strength and closed loopholes in the old laws permitting dishonest manipulation many of these programs are just beginning to exert their main stimulating effect upon the economy generally and upon specific communities and industries throughout the country the past year 1954 was one of the most prosperous years in our history business activity now surges with new strength production is rising employment is high toward the end of last year average weekly wages in manufacturing were higher than ever before personal income after taxes is at a record level so is consumer spending construction activity is reaching new peaks export demand for our goods is strong state and local government expenditures on public works are rising savings are high and credit is readily available so today the transition to a peacetime economy is largely behind us the economic outlook is good the many promising factors i have mentioned do not guarantee sustained economic expansion however they do give us a strong position from which to carry forward our economic growth if we as a people act wisely within ten years our annual national output can rise from its present level of about 360 billion to 500 billion measured in dollars of stable buying power my budget message on january 17 the economic report on the 20th of this month and several special messages will set forth in detail major programs to foster the growth of our economy and to protect the integrity of the people money today i shall discuss these programs only in general terms government efficiency and economy remain essential to steady progress toward a balanced budget more than ten billion dollars were cut from the spending program proposed in the budget of january 9 1953 expenditures of that year were six and a half billion below those of the previous year in the current fiscal year government spending will be nearly four and a half billion dollars less than in the fiscal year which ended last june 30 new spending authority has been held below expenditures reducing government obligations accumulated over the years last year we had a large tax cut and for the first time in years a basic revision of federal tax laws it is now clear that defense and other essential government costs must remain at a level precluding further tax reductions this year although excise and corporation income taxes must therefore be continued at their present rates further tax cuts will be possible when justified by lower expenditures and by revenue increases arising from the nation economic growth i am hopeful that such reductions can be made next year at the foundation of our economic growth are the raw materials and energy produced from our minerals and fuels lands and forests and water resources with respect to them i believe that the nation must adhere to three fundamental policies first to develop wisely use and conserve basic resources from generation to generation second to follow the historic pattern of developing these resources primarily by private citizens under fair provisions of law including restraints for proper conservation and third to treat resource development as a partnership undertaking a partnership in which the participation of private citizens and state and local governments is as necessary as federal participation this policy of partnership and cooperation is producing good results most immediately noticeable in respect to water resources first it has encouraged local public bodies and private citizens to plan their own power sources increasing numbers of applications to the federal power commission to conduct surveys and prepare plans for power development notably in the columbia river basin are evidence of local response second the federal government and local and private organizations have been encouraged to coordinate their developments this is important because federal hydroelectric developments supply but a small fraction of the nation power needs such partnership projects as priest rapids in washington the coosa river development in alabama and markham ferry in oklahoma already have the approval of the congress this year justifiable projects of a similar nature will again have administration support third the federal government must shoulder its own partnership obligations by undertaking projects of such complexity and size that their success requires federal development in keeping with this principle i again urge the congress to approve the development of the upper colorado river basin to conserve and assure better use of precious water essential to the future of the west in addition the 1956 budget will recommend appropriations to start six new reclamation and more than thirty new corps of engineers projects of varying size going projects and investigations of potential new resource developments will be continued although this partnership approach is producing encouraging results its full success requires a comprehensive water resources policy firmly based in law such a policy is under preparation and when completed will be submitted to the congress in the interest of their proper conservation development and use continued vigilance will be maintained over our fisheries wildlife resources the national parks and forests and the public lands and we shall continue to encourage an orderly development of the nation mineral resources a modern efficient highway system is essential to meet the needs of our growing population our expanding economy and our national security we are accelerating our highway improvement program as rapidly as possible under existing state and federal laws and authorizations however this effort will not in itself assure our people of an adequate highway system on my recommendation this problem has been carefully considered by the conference of state governors and by a special advisory committee on a national highway program composed of leading private citizens i have received the recommendations of the governors conference and will shortly receive the views of the special advisory committee aided by their findings i shall submit on january 27th detailed recommendations which will meet our most pressing national highway needs in further recognition of the importance of transportation to our economic strength and security the administration through a cabinet committee is thoroughly examining existing federal transportation policies to determine their effect on the adequacy of transportation services this is the first such comprehensive review directly undertaken by the executive branch of the government in modern times we are not only examining major problems facing the various modes of transport we are also studying closely the of civilian and government requirements for transportation legislation will be recommended to correct policy deficiencies which we may find the nation public works activities are tremendous in scope it is expected that more than 12 billion will be expended in 1955 for the development of land water and other resources control of floods and navigation and harbor improvements construction of roads schools and municipal water supplies and disposal of domestic and industrial wastes many of the federal state and local agencies responsible for this work are in their separate capacities highly efficient but public works activities are closely and have a substantial influence on the growth of the country moreover in times of threatening economic contraction they may become a valuable sustaining force to these ends efficient planning and execution of the nation public works require both the coordination of federal activities and effective cooperation with state and local governments the council of economic advisers through its public works planning section has made important advances during the past year in effecting this coordination and cooperation in view of the success of these initial efforts and to give more emphasis and continuity to this essential coordination i shall request the congress to appropriate funds for the support of an office of coordinator of public works in the executive office of the president a most significant element in our growing economy is an agriculture that is stable prosperous and free the problems of our agriculture have evolved over many years and can not be solved overnight nevertheless governmental actions last year hold great promise of fostering a better balance between production and markets and consequently a better and more stable income for our farmers through vigorous administration and through new authority provided by the 83rd congress surplus farm products are now moving into consumption from february 1953 through november 1954 the rate of increase of surpluses has been reduced by our moving into use more than billion dollars worth of farm commodities this amount is equal to more than seven percent of a year production of all our farms and ranches domestic consumption remains high and farm exports will be higher than last year as a result of the flexibility provided by the agricultural act of 1954 we can move toward less restrictive acreage controls thus farm production is gradually adjusting to markets markets are being expanded and stocks are moving into use we can now look forward to an easing of the influences depressing farm prices to reduced government expenditures for purchase of surplus products and to less federal intrusion into the lives and plans of our farm people agricultural programs have been redirected toward better balance greater stability and sustained prosperity we are headed in the right direction i urgently recommend to the congress that we continue resolutely on this road greater attention must be directed to the needs of farm families per cent of our families have net cash incomes of less than per year last year at my request careful studies were made of the problems of these farm people i shall later submit recommendations designed to assure the steady alleviation of their most pressing concerns because drought also remains a serious agricultural problem i shall recommend legislation to strengthen federal disaster assistance programs this legislation will prescribe an improved appraisal of need better adjustment of the various programs to local conditions and a more equitable sharing of costs between the states and the federal government the prosperity of our small business enterprises is an indispensable element in the maintenance of our economic strength creation of the small business administration and recently enacted tax laws facilitating small business expansion are but two of many important steps we have taken to encourage our smaller enterprises i recommend that the congress extend the small business act of 1953 which is due to expire next june we come now to the third great purpose of our concern for the health productivity and of all our people every citizen wants to give full expression to his talents and abilities and to have the recognition and respect accorded under our religious and political traditions americans also want a good material standard of living not simply to accumulate possessions but to fulfill a legitimate aspiration for an environment in which their families may live meaningful and happy lives our people are committed therefore to the creation and preservation of opportunity for every citizen to lead a more rewarding life they are equally committed to the alleviation of misfortune and distress among their fellow citizens the aspirations of most of our people can best be fulfilled through their own enterprise and initiative without government interference this administration therefore follows two simple rules first the federal government should perform an essential task only when it can not otherwise be adequately performed and second in performing that task our government must not impair the freedom and incentive of the individual so long as these two rules are observed the government can fully meet its obligation without creating a dependent population or a domineering bureaucracy during the past two years notable advances were made in these functions of government protection of and survivors insurance was extended to an additional ten million of our people and the benefits were substantially increased legislation was enacted to provide unemployment insurance protection to some four million additional americans stabilization of living costs and the halting of inflation protected the value of pensions and savings a broad program now helps to bring good homes within the reach of the great majority of our people with the states we are providing rehabilitation facilities and more clinics hospitals and nursing homes for patients with chronic illnesses also with the states we have begun a great and fruitful expansion in the restoration of disabled persons to employment and useful lives in the areas of federal responsibility we have made historic progress in eliminating from among our people demeaning practices based on race or color all of us may be proud of these achievements during the past two years yet essential federal tasks remain to be done as part of our efforts to provide decent safe and sanitary housing for families we must carry forward the housing program authorized during the 83rd congress we must also authorize contracts for a firm program of additional public housing units in each of the next two fiscal years this program will meet the most pressing obligations of the federal government into the 1958 fiscal year for planning and building public housing by that time the private building industry aided by the housing act of 1954 will have had the opportunity to assume its full role in providing adequate housing for our low income families the health of our people is one of our most precious assets preventable sickness should be prevented knowledge available to combat disease and disability should be fully used otherwise we as a people are guilty not only of neglect of human suffering but also of wasting our national strength constant advances in medical care are not available to enough of our citizens clearly our nation must do more to reduce the impact of accident and disease two fundamental problems confront us first high and costs of health services second serious gaps and shortages in these services by special message on january 24 i shall propose a coordinated program to strengthen and improve existing health services this program will continue to reject socialized medicine it will emphasize individual and local responsibility under it the federal government will neither dominate nor direct but serve as a helpful partner within this framework the program can be broad in scope my recommendations will include a federal health reinsurance service to encourage the development of more and better voluntary health insurance coverage by private organizations i shall also recommend measures to improve the medical care of that group of our citizens who because of need receive public assistance these two proposals will help more of our people to meet the costs of health services to reduce the gaps in these services i shall propose new measures to facilitate construction of needed health facilities and help reduce shortages of trained health personnel vigorous steps to combat the misery and national loss involved in mental illness improved services for crippled children and for maternal and child health better consumer protection under our existing pure food and drug laws and finally strengthened programs to combat the increasingly serious pollution of our rivers and streams and the growing problem of air pollution these measures together constitute a comprehensive program holding rich promise for better health for all of our people last year expansion of social security coverage and our new program of improved medical care for public assistance recipients together suggest modification of the formula for federal sharing in old age assistance payments i recommend modification of the formula where such payments will in the future supplement benefits received under the old age and survivors insurance system it is the inalienable right of every person from childhood on to have access to knowledge in our form of society this right of the individual takes on a special meaning for the education of all our citizens is imperative to the maintenance and invigoration of america free institutions today we face grave educational problems effective and analyses of these problems and their solutions are being carried forward through the individual state conferences and the white house conference to be completed this year however such factors as population growth additional responsibilities of schools and increased and longer school attendance have produced an unprecedented classroom shortage this shortage is of immediate concern to all of our people positive affirmative action must be taken now without impairing in any way the responsibilities of our states localities communities or families the federal government can and should serve as an in dealing with this problem i shall forward a special message to the congress on february 15 presenting an affirmative program dealing with this shortage to help the states do a better and more timely job we must strengthen their resources for preventing and dealing with juvenile delinquency i shall propose federal legislation to assist the states to promote concerted action in dealing with this nationwide problem i shall carry forward the vigorous efforts of the administration to improve the international control of the traffic in narcotics and in cooperation with state and local agencies to combat narcotic addiction in our country i should like to speak now of additional matters of importance to all our people and especially to our wage earners during the past year certain industrial changes and the readjustment of the economy to conditions of peace brought unemployment and other difficulties to various localities and industries these problems are engaging our most earnest attention but for the overwhelming majority of our working people the past year has meant good jobs moreover the earnings and savings of our wage earners are no longer depreciating in value because of cooperative relations between labor and management fewer working days were lost through strikes in 1954 than in any year in the past decade the outlook for our wage earners can be made still more promising by several legislative actions first in the past five years we have had economic growth which will support an increase in the federal minimum wage in the light of present economic conditions i recommend its increase to ninety cents an hour i also recommend that many others at present excluded be given the protection of a minimum wage second i renew my recommendation of last year for amendment of the labor management relations act of 1947 to further the basic objectives of this statute i especially call to the attention of the congress amendments dealing with the right of economic strikers to vote in representation elections and the need for equalizing the obligation under the act to file disclaimers of communist affiliation third the administration will propose other important measures including occupational safety workmen compensation for longshoremen and harbor workers and the eight hour laws applicable to federal contractors legislation will also be proposed respecting nonoccupational disability insurance and unemployment compensation in the district of columbia in considering human needs the federal government must take special responsibility for citizens in its direct employ on january 11 i shall propose a pay adjustment plan for civilian employees outside the postal field service to correct inequities and increase individual pay rates i shall also recommend voluntary health insurance on a contributory basis for federal employees and their dependents in keeping with the group life insurance act passed in the 83rd congress this protection should be provided on the group insurance principle and purchased from private facilities also on january 11 i shall recommend a modern pay plan including pay increases for postal field employees as part of this program and to carry forward our progress toward elimination of the large annual postal deficit i shall renew my request for an increase in postal rates again i urge that in the future the fixing of rates be delegated to an impartial independent body more adequate training programs to equip career employees of the government to render improved public service will be recommended as will improvements in the laws affecting employees serving on foreign assignments needed improvements in survivor disability and retirement benefits for federal civilian and military personnel have been extensively considered by the committee on retirement policy for federal personnel the committee proposals would strengthen and improve benefits for our career people in government and i endorse their broad objectives full contributory coverage under and survivors insurance should be made available to all federal personnel just as in private industry for career military personnel the protection of the and survivors insurance system would be an important and addition especially to their present unequal and inadequate survivorship protection the military retirement pay system should remain separate and unchanged certain adjustments in the present civilian personnel retirement systems will be needed to reflect the additional protection of and survivors insurance however these systems also are a basic part of a total compensation and should be separately and independently retained i also urge the congress to approve a long overdue increase in the salaries of members of the congress and of the federal judiciary to a level commensurate with their heavy responsibilities our concern for the individual in our country requires that we consider several additional problems we must continue our program to help our indian citizens improve their lot and make their full contribution to national life two years ago i advised the congress of injustices under existing immigration laws through humane administration the department of justice is doing what it legally can to alleviate hardships clearance of aliens before arrival has been initiated and except for criminal offenders the imprisonment of aliens awaiting admission or deportation has been stopped certain provisions of law however have the effect of compelling action in respect to aliens which are inequitable in some instances and discriminatory in others these provisions should be corrected in this session of the congress as the complex problems of alaska are resolved that territory should expect to achieve statehood in the meantime there is no justification for deferring the admission to statehood of hawaii i again urge approval of this measure we have three splendid opportunities to demonstrate the strength of our belief in the right of suffrage first i again urge that a constitutional amendment be submitted to the states to reduce the voting age for federal elections second i renew my request that the principle of be extended and the right of suffrage granted to the citizens of the district of columbia third i again recommend that we work with the states to preserve the voting fights of citizens in the nation service overseas in our determination to keep faith with those who in the past have met the highest call of citizenship we now have under study the system of benefits for veterans and for surviving dependents of deceased veterans and servicemen studies will be undertaken to determine the need for measures to ease the readjustment to civilian life of men required to enter the armed forces for two years of service in the advancement of the various activities which will make our civilization endure and flourish the federal government should do more to give official recognition to the importance of the arts and other cultural activities i shall recommend the establishment of a federal advisory commission on the arts within the department of health education and welfare to advise the federal government on ways to encourage artistic endeavor and appreciation i shall also propose that awards of merit be established whereby we can honor our fellow citizens who make great contribution to the advancement of our civilization every citizen rightly expects efficient and economical administration of these many government programs i have outlined today i strongly recommend extension of the reorganization act and the law establishing the commission on intergovernmental relations both of which expire this spring thus the congress will assure continuation of the excellent progress recently made in improving government organization and administration in this connection we are looking forward with great interest to the reports which will soon be going to the congress from the commission on organization of the executive branch of the government i am sure that these studies made under the chairmanship of former president herbert hoover with the assistance of more than two hundred distinguished citizens will be of great value in paving the way toward more efficiency and economy in the government and now i return to the point at which i began the faith of our people the many programs here summarized are i believe in full keeping with their needs interests and aspirations the obligations upon us are clear to labor earnestly patiently prayerfully for peace for freedom for justice throughout the world to keep our economy vigorous and free that our people may lead fuller happier lives to advance not merely by our words but by our acts the determination of our government that every citizen shall have opportunity to develop to his fullest capacity as we do these things before us is a future filled with opportunity and hope that future will be ours if in our time we keep alive the patience the courage the confidence in tomorrow the deep faith of the millions who in years past made and preserved us this nation a decade ago in the death and desolation of european battlefields i saw the courage and resolution i felt the inspiration of american youth in these young men i felt america buoyant confidence and irresistible in them i saw too a devout america humble before god and so i know with all my heart and i deeply believe that all americans know that despite the anxieties of this divided world our faith and the because in which we all believe will surely prevail dwight eisenhower
president speaker members congress first extend cordial greetings 84th congress shall much together sure shall get done shall harmony good outset believe would well remind great fundamental national life common belief every human divinely endowed dignity worth inalienable rights faith corollary grow flourish people must free shapes interests aspirations every american deep faith evolved three main purposes federal government first maintain justice freedom among champion others may work effectively enduring peace second help keep economy vigorous expanding thus sustaining international strength assuring better jobs better living better opportunities every citizen third concern human problems people every american may opportunity lead healthy productive rewarding life foremost among broad purposes government support freedom justice peace utmost importance us understand true nature struggle taking place world struggle merely economic theories forms government military power issue true nature man either man creature psalmist described little lower angels crowned glory honor holding dominion works creator man soulless animated machine enslaved used consumed state glorification therefore struggle goes roots human spirit shadow falls across long sweep man destiny prize precious fraught ultimate meaning true object contending forces world past year progress justifying hope continuing peace ultimate rule freedom justice world free nations collectively stronger time recent years nations hemisphere historic caracas rio conferences closed ranks imperialistic communism strengthened economic ties free nations elsewhere forged new bonds unity recent agreements turkey pakistan laid foundation increased strength middle east understanding support egypt britain yugoslavia italy britain iran resolved dangerous differences security mediterranean enhanced alliance among greece turkey yugoslavia agreements western europe paved way unity replace past divisions undermined europe economic military vitality defense west appears likely last include free democratic germany participating equal councils nato asia pacific pending manila pact supplements treaties australia new zealand philippines korea japan prospective treaty republic china pacts stand solemn warning future military aggression subversion free nations asia meet united response pacific charter also adopted manila milestone development human freedom pacific area auspices united nations promise progress country plan peaceful use atomic energy finally today world peace sure secure peace yet humanity finds hope simple fact appreciable time active major battlefield earth fact inspires us work effectively nations freedom dignity every human earth developments heartening indeed hopeful continuing progress sobering problems remain massive military machines ambitions bloc still create uneasiness world us aware continuing reliance soviet communists military force power weapons present resistance realistic armament limitation continuing effort dominate intimidate free nations periphery steadily growing power includes increasing strength nuclear weapons power combined proclaimed intentions communist leaders communize world threat confronting us today protect nations peoples catastrophe nuclear holocaust free nations must maintain countervailing military power persuade communists futility seeking ends aggression communist rulers understand america response aggression swift decisive never shall buy peace expense honor faith powerfully deterred launching military venture engulfing peoples many others disaster course merely world stalemate stalemate us may must exercise high duty strive every honorable way enduring peace military threat one menace freedom security must deter aggression must also frustrate effort communists gain goals subversion end free nations must maintain reinforce cohesion internal security political economic vitality faith freedom world america course dear must tirelessly labor make peace durable must strengthen collective defense united nations charter gird sufficient military strength productive capacity discourage resort war protect nation vital interests must continue support strengthen united nations moment vote united nations general assembly communist china mission deepest concern americans seeking release american aviators united nations prisoners wrongfully detained communist regime must also encourage efforts made united nations limit armaments harness atom peaceful rise must expand international trade investment assist friendly nations whose best efforts still insufficient provide strength essential security free world must willing use processes negotiation whenever advance secure peace united states free nations dedicated respect matters must vigorous information program keep peoples world truthfully advised actions purposes problem attacked new vigor past months urge congress give earnest consideration great advantages accrue country successful operations program must also carry forward educational exchange program sharing knowledge experience citizens free countries powerful factor development maintenance true partnership among free peoples advance many efforts congress must act session appropriations legislation treaties today shall mention especially foreign economic military programs recent economic progress many free nations heartening productivity labor production goods services increasing areas growing improve living standards men progress important people promises us allies strong promises growing world market products mines factories farms steady effort hope continue progress barriers still impede trade flow capital needed develop nation human material resources wise reduction barriers objective foreign economic policy policy evolutionary selective nature assuring broad benefits peoples must gradually reduce certain tariff obstacles trade actions course accompanied similar lowering trade barriers nations may move steadily toward greater economic advantage must simplify customs administration procedures must facilitate flow capital continue technical assistance directly united nations less developed countries strengthen independence raise living standards many another step must taken among nations free world release forces private initiative nation forces brought strength prosperity released generate rising incomes countries buy products american industry labor agriculture january 10 special message shall submit specific recommendations carrying forward legislative phases foreign economic policy many efforts build better world include maintenance military strength vast undertaking major national security programs consume entire federal budget four million americans servicemen civilians rolls defense establishment past two years eliminating duplication overstaffing improved procurement inventory controls concentrating essentials many billions dollars saved defense activities like mention certain fundamentals underlying vast program first realistic limitation armaments enduring peace remain national goals maintain powerful military forces present alternative forces designed deterrent defensive purposes alone able instantly strike back destructive power response attack second must stay alert fact undue reliance one weapon preparation one kind warfare simply invites enemy resort another must therefore keep armed forces balance flexibility adequate purposes objectives third keep armed forces abreast advances science military planning must flexible enough utilize new weapons techniques flow ever speedily research development programs forthcoming military budget therefore emphasizes modern airpower air force navy marine corps increases emphasis new weapons especially rapid destructive striking power assures maintenance effective retaliatory force principal deterrent overt aggression accelerates continental defense program ready military reserve forces continues vigorous program stockpiling strategic critical materials strengthening mobilization base budget also contemplates strategic concentration strength redeployment certain forces provides reduction forces certain categories expansion others fit military realities time emphases defense planning made personal direction long thoughtful study judgment give nation defense accurately adjusted national need fourth pending world agreement armament limitation must continue improve expand supplies nuclear weapons land naval air forces time continuing encouraging progress peaceful use atomic power fifth administration costly programs must demand utmost efficiency ingenuity must assure people adequate protection also defense carried forward year year threat aggression disappeared help maintain kind armed strength improve efficiency must urge enactment several important measures session first concerns selective service act expires next june 30th foreseeable future standing forces must remain much larger voluntary methods sustain must therefore extend statutory authority induct men two years military service second kind measure concerns rapid turnover experienced servicemen process seriously weakens combat readiness armed forces exorbitantly expensive encourage trained servicemen remain uniform shall thirteenth month propose number measures increase attractions military career measures include adequate medical care dependents survivors benefits better housing selective adjustments military pay allowances third also january 13 shall present program rebuild strengthen civilian components armed forces comprehensive program designed make better use manpower military age go far assuring fair equitable participation military training service particular importance combat veterans keeping historic military policy republic program designed build maintain powerful civilian reserves immediately capable effective military service emergency lieu maintaining active duty forces excess nation immediate need maintenance effective defense requires continuance aggressive attack subversion home effort past two years made excellent progress fbi investigations powerfully reinforced new internal security division department justice security activities immigration naturalization service revitalized improved strengthened security system effect throughout government department justice fbi armed effective new legal weapons forged 83rd congress shall continue ferret destroy communist subversion shall process carefully preserve traditions basic rights citizens civil defense program also key element protection country developing cooperative methods state governors mayors voluntary citizen groups well among federal agencies building civil defense organization significance time war obvious swift assistance disaster areas last year proved importance time peace industry capable rapid expansion essential materials facilities swiftly available time emergency indispensable defense urge therefore extension defense production act title ii first war powers act 1941 cornerstones program development maintenance adequate mobilization base point like make additional observation quest peace freedom necessarily presumes hold positions public trust must rise self section must subordinate general good partisan personal pride prejudice tirelessly united purpose must fortify material spiritual foundations land freedom free nations throughout world never need unhesitating cooperation among branches government time executive legislative branches management different political parties fact places parties trial american people less perilous days past division governmental responsibility among great parties produced paralyzing indecision must let happen time must avoid paralysis peace international security traditionally bipartisan areas military security foreign relations report already leaders congress expressed assurances unreserved cooperation yet strength country requires mere maintenance military strength success foreign affairs vital matters turn dependent upon concerted vigorous action number supporting programs say therefore 84th congress areas basic strength america extent insure cooperative constructive relations executive legislative branches government let general good yardstick every great issue time efforts defend freedom secure peace course inseparable second great purpose government help maintain strong growing economy economy vigorous free opportunities rewards effort stable prosperity widely shared past two years many important governmental actions helped economy adjust conditions peace actions created climate renewed economic growth controls removed wages prices materials tax revisions encouraged increased private spending employment federal expenditures sharply reduced making possible record tax cut actions together flexible monetary debt management policies helped halt inflation stabilize value dollar program cooperation partnership resource development begun social security unemployment insurance laws broadened strengthened new laws started long process balancing farm production farm markets expanded shipbuilding stockpiling programs strengthened key sectors economy improving mobilization base comprehensive new housing law brought impressive progress area fundamental economic strength closed loopholes old laws permitting dishonest manipulation many programs beginning exert main stimulating effect upon economy generally upon specific communities industries throughout country past year 1954 one prosperous years history business activity surges new strength production rising employment high toward end last year average weekly wages manufacturing higher ever personal income taxes record level consumer spending construction activity reaching new peaks export demand goods strong state local government expenditures public works rising savings high credit readily available today transition peacetime economy largely behind us economic outlook good many promising factors mentioned guarantee sustained economic expansion however give us strong position carry forward economic growth people act wisely within ten years annual national output rise present level 360 billion 500 billion measured dollars stable buying power budget message january 17 economic report 20th month several special messages set forth detail major programs foster growth economy protect integrity people money today shall discuss programs general terms government efficiency economy remain essential steady progress toward balanced budget ten billion dollars cut spending program proposed budget january 9 1953 expenditures year six half billion previous year current fiscal year government spending nearly four half billion dollars less fiscal year ended last june 30 new spending authority held expenditures reducing government obligations accumulated years last year large tax cut first time years basic revision federal tax laws clear defense essential government costs must remain level precluding tax reductions year although excise corporation income taxes must therefore continued present rates tax cuts possible justified lower expenditures revenue increases arising nation economic growth hopeful reductions made next year foundation economic growth raw materials energy produced minerals fuels lands forests water resources respect believe nation must adhere three fundamental policies first develop wisely use conserve basic resources generation generation second follow historic pattern developing resources primarily private citizens fair provisions law including restraints proper conservation third treat resource development partnership undertaking partnership participation private citizens state local governments necessary federal participation policy partnership cooperation producing good results immediately noticeable respect water resources first encouraged local public bodies private citizens plan power sources increasing numbers applications federal power commission conduct surveys prepare plans power development notably columbia river basin evidence local response second federal government local private organizations encouraged coordinate developments important federal hydroelectric developments supply small fraction nation power needs partnership projects priest rapids washington coosa river development alabama markham ferry oklahoma already approval congress year justifiable projects similar nature administration support third federal government must shoulder partnership obligations undertaking projects complexity size success requires federal development keeping principle urge congress approve development upper colorado river basin conserve assure better use precious water essential future west addition 1956 budget recommend appropriations start six new reclamation thirty new corps engineers projects varying size going projects investigations potential new resource developments continued although partnership approach producing encouraging results full success requires comprehensive water resources policy firmly based law policy preparation completed submitted congress interest proper conservation development use continued vigilance maintained fisheries wildlife resources national parks forests public lands shall continue encourage orderly development nation mineral resources modern efficient highway system essential meet needs growing population expanding economy national security accelerating highway improvement program rapidly possible existing state federal laws authorizations however effort assure people adequate highway system recommendation problem carefully considered conference state governors special advisory committee national highway program composed leading private citizens received recommendations governors conference shortly receive views special advisory committee aided findings shall submit january 27th detailed recommendations meet pressing national highway needs recognition importance transportation economic strength security administration cabinet committee thoroughly examining existing federal transportation policies determine effect adequacy transportation services first comprehensive review directly undertaken executive branch government modern times examining major problems facing various modes transport also studying closely civilian government requirements transportation legislation recommended correct policy deficiencies may find nation public works activities tremendous scope expected 12 billion expended 1955 development land water resources control floods navigation harbor improvements construction roads schools municipal water supplies disposal domestic industrial wastes many federal state local agencies responsible work separate capacities highly efficient public works activities closely substantial influence growth country moreover times threatening economic contraction may become valuable sustaining force ends efficient planning execution nation public works require coordination federal activities effective cooperation state local governments council economic advisers public works planning section made important advances past year effecting coordination cooperation view success initial efforts give emphasis continuity essential coordination shall request congress appropriate funds support office coordinator public works executive office president significant element growing economy agriculture stable prosperous free problems agriculture evolved many years solved overnight nevertheless governmental actions last year hold great promise fostering better balance production markets consequently better stable income farmers vigorous administration new authority provided 83rd congress surplus farm products moving consumption february 1953 november 1954 rate increase surpluses reduced moving use billion dollars worth farm commodities amount equal seven percent year production farms ranches domestic consumption remains high farm exports higher last year result flexibility provided agricultural act 1954 move toward less restrictive acreage controls thus farm production gradually adjusting markets markets expanded stocks moving use look forward easing influences depressing farm prices reduced government expenditures purchase surplus products less federal intrusion lives plans farm people agricultural programs redirected toward better balance greater stability sustained prosperity headed right direction urgently recommend congress continue resolutely road greater attention must directed needs farm families per cent families net cash incomes less per year last year request careful studies made problems farm people shall later submit recommendations designed assure steady alleviation pressing concerns drought also remains serious agricultural problem shall recommend legislation strengthen federal disaster assistance programs legislation prescribe improved appraisal need better adjustment various programs local conditions equitable sharing costs states federal government prosperity small business enterprises indispensable element maintenance economic strength creation small business administration recently enacted tax laws facilitating small business expansion two many important steps taken encourage smaller enterprises recommend congress extend small business act 1953 due expire next june come third great purpose concern health productivity people every citizen wants give full expression talents abilities recognition respect accorded religious political traditions americans also want good material standard living simply accumulate possessions fulfill legitimate aspiration environment families may live meaningful happy lives people committed therefore creation preservation opportunity every citizen lead rewarding life equally committed alleviation misfortune distress among fellow citizens aspirations people best fulfilled enterprise initiative without government interference administration therefore follows two simple rules first federal government perform essential task otherwise adequately performed second performing task government must impair freedom incentive individual long two rules observed government fully meet obligation without creating dependent population domineering bureaucracy past two years notable advances made functions government protection survivors insurance extended additional ten million people benefits substantially increased legislation enacted provide unemployment insurance protection four million additional americans stabilization living costs halting inflation protected value pensions savings broad program helps bring good homes within reach great majority people states providing rehabilitation facilities clinics hospitals nursing homes patients chronic illnesses also states begun great fruitful expansion restoration disabled persons employment useful lives areas federal responsibility made historic progress eliminating among people demeaning practices based race color us may proud achievements past two years yet essential federal tasks remain done part efforts provide decent safe sanitary housing families must carry forward housing program authorized 83rd congress must also authorize contracts firm program additional public housing units next two fiscal years program meet pressing obligations federal government 1958 fiscal year planning building public housing time private building industry aided housing act 1954 opportunity assume full role providing adequate housing low income families health people one precious assets preventable sickness prevented knowledge available combat disease disability fully used otherwise people guilty neglect human suffering also wasting national strength constant advances medical care available enough citizens clearly nation must reduce impact accident disease two fundamental problems confront us first high costs health services second serious gaps shortages services special message january 24 shall propose coordinated program strengthen improve existing health services program continue reject socialized medicine emphasize individual local responsibility federal government neither dominate direct serve helpful partner within framework program broad scope recommendations include federal health reinsurance service encourage development better voluntary health insurance coverage private organizations shall also recommend measures improve medical care group citizens need receive public assistance two proposals help people meet costs health services reduce gaps services shall propose new measures facilitate construction needed health facilities help reduce shortages trained health personnel vigorous steps combat misery national loss involved mental illness improved services crippled children maternal child health better consumer protection existing pure food drug laws finally strengthened programs combat increasingly serious pollution rivers streams growing problem air pollution measures together constitute comprehensive program holding rich promise better health people last year expansion social security coverage new program improved medical care public assistance recipients together suggest modification formula federal sharing old age assistance payments recommend modification formula payments future supplement benefits received old age survivors insurance system inalienable right every person childhood access knowledge form society right individual takes special meaning education citizens imperative maintenance invigoration america free institutions today face grave educational problems effective analyses problems solutions carried forward individual state conferences white house conference completed year however factors population growth additional responsibilities schools increased longer school attendance produced unprecedented classroom shortage shortage immediate concern people positive affirmative action must taken without impairing way responsibilities states localities communities families federal government serve dealing problem shall forward special message congress february 15 presenting affirmative program dealing shortage help states better timely job must strengthen resources preventing dealing juvenile delinquency shall propose federal legislation assist states promote concerted action dealing nationwide problem shall carry forward vigorous efforts administration improve international control traffic narcotics cooperation state local agencies combat narcotic addiction country like speak additional matters importance people especially wage earners past year certain industrial changes readjustment economy conditions peace brought unemployment difficulties various localities industries problems engaging earnest attention overwhelming majority working people past year meant good jobs moreover earnings savings wage earners longer depreciating value cooperative relations labor management fewer working days lost strikes 1954 year past decade outlook wage earners made still promising several legislative actions first past five years economic growth support increase federal minimum wage light present economic conditions recommend increase ninety cents hour also recommend many others present excluded given protection minimum wage second renew recommendation last year amendment labor management relations act 1947 basic objectives statute especially call attention congress amendments dealing right economic strikers vote representation elections need equalizing obligation act file disclaimers communist affiliation third administration propose important measures including occupational safety workmen compensation longshoremen harbor workers eight hour laws applicable federal contractors legislation also proposed respecting nonoccupational disability insurance unemployment compensation district columbia considering human needs federal government must take special responsibility citizens direct employ january 11 shall propose pay adjustment plan civilian employees outside postal field service correct inequities increase individual pay rates shall also recommend voluntary health insurance contributory basis federal employees dependents keeping group life insurance act passed 83rd congress protection provided group insurance principle purchased private facilities also january 11 shall recommend modern pay plan including pay increases postal field employees part program carry forward progress toward elimination large annual postal deficit shall renew request increase postal rates urge future fixing rates delegated impartial independent body adequate training programs equip career employees government render improved public service recommended improvements laws affecting employees serving foreign assignments needed improvements survivor disability retirement benefits federal civilian military personnel extensively considered committee retirement policy federal personnel committee proposals would strengthen improve benefits career people government endorse broad objectives full contributory coverage survivors insurance made available federal personnel private industry career military personnel protection survivors insurance system would important addition especially present unequal inadequate survivorship protection military retirement pay system remain separate unchanged certain adjustments present civilian personnel retirement systems needed reflect additional protection survivors insurance however systems also basic part total compensation separately independently retained also urge congress approve long overdue increase salaries members congress federal judiciary level commensurate heavy responsibilities concern individual country requires consider several additional problems must continue program help indian citizens improve lot make full contribution national life two years ago advised congress injustices existing immigration laws humane administration department justice legally alleviate hardships clearance aliens arrival initiated except criminal offenders imprisonment aliens awaiting admission deportation stopped certain provisions law however effect compelling action respect aliens inequitable instances discriminatory others provisions corrected session congress complex problems alaska resolved territory expect achieve statehood meantime justification deferring admission statehood hawaii urge approval measure three splendid opportunities demonstrate strength belief right suffrage first urge constitutional amendment submitted states reduce voting age federal elections second renew request principle extended right suffrage granted citizens district columbia third recommend work states preserve voting fights citizens nation service overseas determination keep faith past met highest call citizenship study system benefits veterans surviving dependents deceased veterans servicemen studies undertaken determine need measures ease readjustment civilian life men required enter armed forces two years service advancement various activities make civilization endure flourish federal government give official recognition importance arts cultural activities shall recommend establishment federal advisory commission arts within department health education welfare advise federal government ways encourage artistic endeavor appreciation shall also propose awards merit established whereby honor fellow citizens make great contribution advancement civilization every citizen rightly expects efficient economical administration many government programs outlined today strongly recommend extension reorganization act law establishing commission intergovernmental relations expire spring thus congress assure continuation excellent progress recently made improving government organization administration connection looking forward great interest reports soon going congress commission organization executive branch government sure studies made chairmanship former president herbert hoover assistance two hundred distinguished citizens great value paving way toward efficiency economy government return point began faith people many programs summarized believe full keeping needs interests aspirations obligations upon us clear labor earnestly patiently prayerfully peace freedom justice throughout world keep economy vigorous free people may lead fuller happier lives advance merely words acts determination government every citizen shall opportunity develop fullest capacity things us future filled opportunity hope future time keep alive patience courage confidence tomorrow deep faith millions years past made preserved us nation decade ago death desolation european battlefields saw courage resolution felt inspiration american youth young men felt america buoyant confidence irresistible saw devout america humble god know heart deeply believe americans know despite anxieties divided world faith believe surely prevail dwight eisenhower
president speaker member congress first extend cordial greeting 84th congress shall much together sure shall get do shall harmony good outset believe would well remind great fundamental national life common belief every human divinely endow dignity worth inalienable right faith corollary grow flourish people must free shape interest aspiration every american deep faith evolve three main purpose federal government first maintain justice freedom among champion others may work effectively endure peace second help keep economy vigorous expand thus sustain international strength assure good job well live good opportunity every citizen third concern human problem people every american may opportunity lead healthy productive reward life foremost among broad purpose government support freedom justice peace utmost importance u understand true nature struggle take place world struggle merely economic theory form government military power issue true nature man either man creature psalmist describe little low angel crown glory honor hold dominion work creator man soulless animate machine enslave use consume state glorification therefore struggle go root human spirit shadow fall across long sweep man destiny prize precious fraught ultimate meaning true object contend force world past year progress justify hope continue peace ultimate rule freedom justice world free nation collectively strong time recent year nation hemisphere historic caracas rio conference close rank imperialistic communism strengthen economic tie free nation elsewhere forge new bond unity recent agreement turkey pakistan lay foundation increase strength middle east understanding support egypt britain yugoslavia italy britain iran resolve dangerous difference security mediterranean enhance alliance among greece turkey yugoslavia agreement western europe pave way unity replace past division undermine europe economic military vitality defense west appear likely last include free democratic germany participate equal council nato asia pacific pending manila pact supplement treaty australia new zealand philippine korea japan prospective treaty republic china pact stand solemn warning future military aggression subversion free nation asia meet united response pacific charter also adopt manila milestone development human freedom pacific area auspex united nation promise progress country plan peaceful use atomic energy finally today world peace sure secure peace yet humanity find hope simple fact appreciable time active major battlefield earth fact inspire u work effectively nation freedom dignity every human earth development hearten indeed hopeful continue progress sober problem remain massive military machine ambition bloc still create uneasiness world u aware continue reliance soviet communist military force power weapon present resistance realistic armament limitation continue effort dominate intimidate free nation periphery steadily grow power include increase strength nuclear weapon power combine proclaimed intention communist leader communize world threat confront u today protect nation people catastrophe nuclear holocaust free nation must maintain countervail military power persuade communist futility seek end aggression communist ruler understand america response aggression swift decisive never shall buy peace expense honor faith powerfully deter launching military venture engulf people many others disaster course merely world stalemate stalemate u may must exercise high duty strive every honorable way endure peace military threat one menace freedom security must deter aggression must also frustrate effort communist gain goal subversion end free nation must maintain reinforce cohesion internal security political economic vitality faith freedom world america course dear must tirelessly labor make peace durable must strengthen collective defense united nation charter gird sufficient military strength productive capacity discourage resort war protect nation vital interest must continue support strengthen unite nation moment vote unite nation general assembly communist china mission deepest concern americans seek release american aviator unite nation prisoner wrongfully detain communist regime must also encourage effort make united nation limit armament harness atom peaceful rise must expand international trade investment assist friendly nation whose best effort still insufficient provide strength essential security free world must willing use process negotiation whenever advance secure peace united state free nation dedicate respect matter must vigorous information program keep people world truthfully advised action purpose problem attack new vigor past month urge congress give earnest consideration great advantage accrue country successful operation program must also carry forward educational exchange program share knowledge experience citizen free country powerful factor development maintenance true partnership among free people advance many effort congress must act session appropriation legislation treaty today shall mention especially foreign economic military program recent economic progress many free nation hearten productivity labor production good service increase area grow improve living standard men progress important people promise u ally strong promise grow world market product mine factory farm steady effort hope continue progress barrier still impede trade flow capital need develop nation human material resource wise reduction barrier objective foreign economic policy policy evolutionary selective nature assure broad benefit people must gradually reduce certain tariff obstacle trade action course accompany similar lower trade barrier nation may move steadily toward great economic advantage must simplify custom administration procedure must facilitate flow capital continue technical assistance directly united nation less developed country strengthen independence raise living standard many another step must take among nation free world release force private initiative nation force bring strength prosperity release generate rise income country buy product american industry labor agriculture january 10 special message shall submit specific recommendation carry forward legislative phase foreign economic policy many effort build good world include maintenance military strength vast undertaking major national security program consume entire federal budget four million american serviceman civilian roll defense establishment past two year eliminate duplication overstaffing improve procurement inventory control concentrate essential many billion dollar save defense activity like mention certain fundamental underlie vast program first realistic limitation armament endure peace remain national goal maintain powerful military force present alternative force design deterrent defensive purpose alone able instantly strike back destructive power response attack second must stay alert fact undue reliance one weapon preparation one kind warfare simply invite enemy resort another must therefore keep armed force balance flexibility adequate purpose objective third keep arm force abreast advance science military planning must flexible enough utilize new weapon technique flow ever speedily research development program forthcoming military budget therefore emphasize modern airpower air force navy marine corp increase emphasis new weapon especially rapid destructive strike power assures maintenance effective retaliatory force principal deterrent overt aggression accelerate continental defense program ready military reserve force continue vigorous program stockpile strategic critical material strengthen mobilization base budget also contemplate strategic concentration strength redeployment certain force provide reduction force certain category expansion others fit military reality time emphases defense planning make personal direction long thoughtful study judgment give nation defense accurately adjust national need fourth pending world agreement armament limitation must continue improve expand supply nuclear weapon land naval air force time continue encouraging progress peaceful use atomic power fifth administration costly program must demand utmost efficiency ingenuity must assure people adequate protection also defense carry forward year year threat aggression disappear help maintain kind armed strength improve efficiency must urge enactment several important measure session first concern selective service act expire next june 30th foreseeable future stand force must remain much large voluntary method sustain must therefore extend statutory authority induct men two year military service second kind measure concern rapid turnover experience serviceman process seriously weaken combat readiness arm force exorbitantly expensive encourage train serviceman remain uniform shall thirteenth month propose number measure increase attraction military career measure include adequate medical care dependent survivor benefit well housing selective adjustment military pay allowance third also january 13 shall present program rebuild strengthen civilian component arm force comprehensive program design make good use manpower military age go far assure fair equitable participation military training service particular importance combat veteran keep historic military policy republic program design build maintain powerful civilian reserve immediately capable effective military service emergency lieu maintain active duty force excess nation immediate need maintenance effective defense require continuance aggressive attack subversion home effort past two year make excellent progress fbi investigation powerfully reinforce new internal security division department justice security activity immigration naturalization service revitalize improved strengthen security system effect throughout government department justice fbi arm effective new legal weapon forge 83rd congress shall continue ferret destroy communist subversion shall process carefully preserve tradition basic right citizen civil defense program also key element protection country develop cooperative method state governor mayor voluntary citizen group well among federal agency build civil defense organization significance time war obvious swift assistance disaster area last year prove importance time peace industry capable rapid expansion essential material facility swiftly available time emergency indispensable defense urge therefore extension defense production act title ii first war power act 1941 cornerstone program development maintenance adequate mobilization base point like make additional observation quest peace freedom necessarily presume hold position public trust must rise self section must subordinate general good partisan personal pride prejudice tirelessly united purpose must fortify material spiritual foundation land freedom free nation throughout world never need unhesitating cooperation among branches government time executive legislative branch management different political party fact place party trial american people less perilous day past division governmental responsibility among great party produce paralyze indecision must let happen time must avoid paralysis peace international security traditionally bipartisan area military security foreign relation report already leader congress express assurance unreserved cooperation yet strength country require mere maintenance military strength success foreign affair vital matter turn dependent upon concert vigorous action number support program say therefore 84th congress area basic strength america extent insure cooperative constructive relation executive legislative branch government let general good yardstick every great issue time effort defend freedom secure peace course inseparable second great purpose government help maintain strong grow economy economy vigorous free opportunity reward effort stable prosperity widely share past two year many important governmental action help economy adjust condition peace action create climate renew economic growth control remove wage price material tax revision encourage increased private spending employment federal expenditure sharply reduce make possible record tax cut action together flexible monetary debt management policy help halt inflation stabilize value dollar program cooperation partnership resource development begin social security unemployment insurance law broaden strengthen new law start long process balance farm production farm market expand shipbuilding stockpile program strengthen key sector economy improve mobilization base comprehensive new housing law bring impressive progress area fundamental economic strength close loophole old law permit dishonest manipulation many program begin exert main stimulating effect upon economy generally upon specific community industry throughout country past year 1954 one prosperous year history business activity surge new strength production rise employment high toward end last year average weekly wage manufacture high ever personal income tax record level consumer spending construction activity reach new peak export demand good strong state local government expenditures public work rise saving high credit readily available today transition peacetime economy largely behind u economic outlook good many promise factor mention guarantee sustain economic expansion however give u strong position carry forward economic growth people act wisely within ten year annual national output rise present level 360 billion 500 billion measured dollar stable buying power budget message january 17 economic report 20th month several special message set forth detail major program foster growth economy protect integrity people money today shall discuss program general term government efficiency economy remain essential steady progress toward balanced budget ten billion dollar cut spend program propose budget january 9 1953 expenditure year six half billion previous year current fiscal year government spend nearly four half billion dollar less fiscal year end last june 30 new spending authority hold expenditure reduce government obligation accumulate year last year large tax cut first time year basic revision federal tax law clear defense essential government cost must remain level preclude tax reduction year although excise corporation income tax must therefore continued present rate tax cut possible justified low expenditure revenue increase arise nation economic growth hopeful reduction make next year foundation economic growth raw material energy produce mineral fuel land forest water resource respect believe nation must adhere three fundamental policy first develop wisely use conserve basic resource generation generation second follow historic pattern develop resource primarily private citizen fair provision law include restraint proper conservation third treat resource development partnership undertake partnership participation private citizen state local government necessary federal participation policy partnership cooperation produce good result immediately noticeable respect water resource first encourage local public body private citizen plan power source increase number application federal power commission conduct survey prepare plan power development notably columbia river basin evidence local response second federal government local private organization encourage coordinate development important federal hydroelectric development supply small fraction nation power need partnership project priest rapid washington coosa river development alabama markham ferry oklahoma already approval congress year justifiable project similar nature administration support third federal government must shoulder partnership obligation undertake project complexity size success require federal development keep principle urge congress approve development upper colorado river basin conserve assure well use precious water essential future west addition 1956 budget recommend appropriation start six new reclamation thirty new corp engineer project vary size go project investigation potential new resource development continue although partnership approach produce encouraging result full success require comprehensive water resource policy firmly base law policy preparation complete submitted congress interest proper conservation development use continue vigilance maintain fishery wildlife resource national park forest public land shall continue encourage orderly development nation mineral resource modern efficient highway system essential meet need grow population expand economy national security accelerate highway improvement program rapidly possible exist state federal law authorization however effort assure people adequate highway system recommendation problem carefully consider conference state governor special advisory committee national highway program compose lead private citizen receive recommendation governor conference shortly receive view special advisory committee aid finding shall submit january 27th detailed recommendation meet pressing national highway need recognition importance transportation economic strength security administration cabinet committee thoroughly examine exist federal transportation policy determine effect adequacy transportation service first comprehensive review directly undertaken executive branch government modern time examine major problem face various mode transport also study closely civilian government requirement transportation legislation recommend correct policy deficiency may find nation public work activity tremendous scope expect 12 billion expended 1955 development land water resource control flood navigation harbor improvement construction roads school municipal water supply disposal domestic industrial waste many federal state local agency responsible work separate capacity highly efficient public work activity closely substantial influence growth country moreover time threaten economic contraction may become valuable sustain force end efficient plan execution nation public work require coordination federal activity effective cooperation state local government council economic adviser public work plan section make important advance past year effect coordination cooperation view success initial effort give emphasis continuity essential coordination shall request congress appropriate fund support office coordinator public work executive office president significant element grow economy agriculture stable prosperous free problem agriculture evolve many year solve overnight nevertheless governmental action last year hold great promise foster good balance production market consequently well stable income farmer vigorous administration new authority provide 83rd congress surplus farm product move consumption february 1953 november 1954 rate increase surplus reduce move use billion dollar worth farm commodity amount equal seven percent year production farm ranch domestic consumption remain high farm export higher last year result flexibility provide agricultural act 1954 move toward less restrictive acreage control thus farm production gradually adjust market market expand stock move use look forward ease influence depress farm price reduce government expenditure purchase surplus product less federal intrusion life plan farm people agricultural program redirect toward good balance great stability sustain prosperity head right direction urgently recommend congress continue resolutely road great attention must direct need farm family per cent family net cash income less per year last year request careful study make problem farm people shall later submit recommendation design assure steady alleviation press concern drought also remain serious agricultural problem shall recommend legislation strengthen federal disaster assistance program legislation prescribe improve appraisal need well adjustment various program local condition equitable share cost state federal government prosperity small business enterprise indispensable element maintenance economic strength creation small business administration recently enact tax law facilitate small business expansion two many important step take encourage small enterprise recommend congress extend small business act 1953 due expire next june come third great purpose concern health productivity people every citizen want give full expression talent abilities recognition respect accord religious political tradition american also want good material standard living simply accumulate possession fulfill legitimate aspiration environment family may live meaningful happy live people commit therefore creation preservation opportunity every citizen lead reward life equally committed alleviation misfortune distress among fellow citizen aspiration people best fulfil enterprise initiative without government interference administration therefore follow two simple rule first federal government perform essential task otherwise adequately perform second perform task government must impair freedom incentive individual long two rule observed government fully meet obligation without create dependent population domineer bureaucracy past two year notable advance make function government protection survivor insurance extend additional ten million people benefit substantially increase legislation enact provide unemployment insurance protection four million additional american stabilization live cost halt inflation protect value pension savings broad program help bring good home within reach great majority people state provide rehabilitation facility clinics hospital nurse home patient chronic illness also state begin great fruitful expansion restoration disable person employment useful life area federal responsibility make historic progress eliminate among people demean practice base race color u may proud achievement past two year yet essential federal task remain do part effort provide decent safe sanitary housing family must carry forward housing program authorize 83rd congress must also authorize contract firm program additional public housing unit next two fiscal year program meet press obligation federal government 1958 fiscal year plan building public housing time private building industry aid housing act 1954 opportunity assume full role provide adequate housing low income family health people one precious asset preventable sickness prevent knowledge available combat disease disability fully use otherwise people guilty neglect human suffering also waste national strength constant advance medical care available enough citizen clearly nation must reduce impact accident disease two fundamental problem confront u first high cost health service second serious gap shortage service special message january 24 shall propose coordinated program strengthen improve exist health service program continue reject socialized medicine emphasize individual local responsibility federal government neither dominate direct serve helpful partner within framework program broad scope recommendation include federal health reinsurance service encourage development well voluntary health insurance coverage private organization shall also recommend measure improve medical care group citizen need receive public assistance two proposal help people meet cost health service reduce gap service shall propose new measure facilitate construction need health facility help reduce shortage train health personnel vigorous step combat misery national loss involve mental illness improve service cripple child maternal child health well consumer protection exist pure food drug law finally strengthen program combat increasingly serious pollution river stream grow problem air pollution measure together constitute comprehensive program hold rich promise well health people last year expansion social security coverage new program improve medical care public assistance recipient together suggest modification formula federal sharing old age assistance payment recommend modification formula payment future supplement benefit receive old age survivor insurance system inalienable right every person childhood access knowledge form society right individual take special mean education citizen imperative maintenance invigoration america free institution today face grave educational problem effective analysis problem solution carry forward individual state conference white house conference complete year however factor population growth additional responsibility school increase long school attendance produce unprecedented classroom shortage shortage immediate concern people positive affirmative action must take without impair way responsibility state locality community family federal government serve deal problem shall forward special message congress february 15 present affirmative program dealing shortage help state well timely job must strengthen resource prevent deal juvenile delinquency shall propose federal legislation assist state promote concert action deal nationwide problem shall carry forward vigorous effort administration improve international control traffic narcotic cooperation state local agency combat narcotic addiction country like speak additional matter importance people especially wage earner past year certain industrial change readjustment economy condition peace brought unemployment difficulty various locality industry problem engage earnest attention overwhelm majority work people past year meant good job moreover earnings saving wage earner longer depreciate value cooperative relation labor management few work day lose strike 1954 year past decade outlook wage earner make still promising several legislative action first past five year economic growth support increase federal minimum wage light present economic condition recommend increase ninety cent hour also recommend many others present exclude give protection minimum wage second renew recommendation last year amendment labor management relation act 1947 basic objective statute especially call attention congress amendment deal right economic striker vote representation election need equalize obligation act file disclaimer communist affiliation third administration propose important measure include occupational safety workman compensation longshoreman harbor worker eight hour law applicable federal contractor legislation also propose respect nonoccupational disability insurance unemployment compensation district columbia consider human need federal government must take special responsibility citizen direct employ january 11 shall propose pay adjustment plan civilian employee outside postal field service correct inequity increase individual pay rate shall also recommend voluntary health insurance contributory basis federal employee dependent keep group life insurance act pass 83rd congress protection provide group insurance principle purchase private facility also january 11 shall recommend modern pay plan include pay increase postal field employee part program carry forward progress toward elimination large annual postal deficit shall renew request increase postal rate urge future fix rate delegate impartial independent body adequate training program equip career employee government render improve public service recommend improvement law affect employee serve foreign assignment need improvement survivor disability retirement benefit federal civilian military personnel extensively consider committee retirement policy federal personnel committee proposal would strengthen improve benefit career people government endorse broad objective full contributory coverage survivor insurance make available federal personnel private industry career military personnel protection survivor insurance system would important addition especially present unequal inadequate survivorship protection military retirement pay system remain separate unchanged certain adjustment present civilian personnel retirement system need reflect additional protection survivor insurance however system also basic part total compensation separately independently retain also urge congress approve long overdue increase salary member congress federal judiciary level commensurate heavy responsibility concern individual country require consider several additional problem must continue program help indian citizen improve lot make full contribution national life two year ago advise congress injustice exist immigration law humane administration department justice legally alleviate hardship clearance alien arrival initiate except criminal offender imprisonment alien await admission deportation stop certain provision law however effect compel action respect alien inequitable instance discriminatory others provision correct session congress complex problem alaska resolve territory expect achieve statehood meantime justification defer admission statehood hawaii urge approval measure three splendid opportunity demonstrate strength belief right suffrage first urge constitutional amendment submit state reduce vote age federal election second renew request principle extend right suffrage grant citizen district columbia third recommend work state preserve vote fight citizen nation service overseas determination keep faith past meet high call citizenship study system benefit veteran survive dependent decease veteran servicemen study undertake determine need measure ease readjustment civilian life men require enter arm force two year service advancement various activity make civilization endure flourish federal government give official recognition importance art cultural activity shall recommend establishment federal advisory commission art within department health education welfare advise federal government way encourage artistic endeavor appreciation shall also propose award merit establish whereby honor fellow citizen make great contribution advancement civilization every citizen rightly expect efficient economical administration many government program outline today strongly recommend extension reorganization act law establish commission intergovernmental relation expire spring thus congress assure continuation excellent progress recently make improving government organization administration connection look forward great interest report soon go congress commission organization executive branch government sure study make chairmanship former president herbert hoover assistance two hundred distinguish citizen great value pave way toward efficiency economy government return point begin faith people many program summarize believe full keep needs interest aspiration obligation upon u clear labor earnestly patiently prayerfully peace freedom justice throughout world keep economy vigorous free people may lead fuller happy life advance merely word act determination government every citizen shall opportunity develop full capacity thing u future fill opportunity hope future time keep alive patience courage confidence tomorrow deep faith million year past make preserve u nation decade ago death desolation european battlefield saw courage resolution felt inspiration american youth young men felt america buoyant confidence irresistible saw devout america humble god know heart deeply believe american know despite anxiety divide world faith believe surely prevail dwight eisenhower