Message to Selective Service Registrants.

I WISH I could personally talk to each one of you about our country's pressing need for a stronger defense, and its vital meaning to you, your family, and the whole Nation. I would tell you that the task before us today is as compelling as any that ever confronted our people, and I would add that each of us must willingly do his bit if we are to hold fast our heritage of freedom and our American way of life—our national existence itself.

And whether or not you are to be among those selected, I welcome you as one whose name has been inscribed on the roll of honor of those Americans ready, if need be, to join in the common defense of all.