Lamentation and Regrets

"Even today, there is little value in insuring the survival of our nation if our traditions do not survive with it. And there is very grave danger that an announced need for increased security will be seized upon by those anxious to expand its meaning to the very limits of official censorship and concealment. That, I do not intend to permit to the extent that it's in my control. And no official of my Administration, whether his rank is high or low, civilian or military, should interpret my words here tonight as an excuse to censor the news, to stifle dissent to cover up our mistakes or to with hold from the press and public the facts they deserve to know."

On April 27, 1961, right after the Bay of Pigs debacle, President Kennedy made these comments at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City... if only he had survived and was heeded, then July 4 would be a much more celebratory holiday instead of the lamentation and regrets that course through our electorate!