Remarks at the Congressional Barbecue

Thank you all for coming. So the Vice President and I were sitting around saying, "I wonder if we can get some people to come to a barbecue here on the South Lawn." We're glad you came. Laura and I and Lynne and Dick are really pleased to host you all for the annual Congressional Barbecue. We want to thank the Rich Davisfamily from Kansas City for providing the barbecue and the White House staff for providing the napkins. [Laughter]

I think the best thing I can tell you is how much I appreciate the families of the Members of Congress for supporting your husbands and wives and moms and dads as they serve our great country. It is a— the Members of Congress work really hard on behalf of the people of the country. And they're gone a lot from their homes, and I know it's hard. It's hard to wonder whether or not the service is worth it. I'm telling you, the service is worth it. We are a great nation because men and women from all walks of life are willing to serve our country. So we really appreciate you being here.

I also want to thank the Marine Band, the Army Band, the Navy Band, the Air Force Band, and the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps for providing the entertainment tonight.

And our wish is that you enjoy yourself on the beautiful South Lawn of this majestic house that Laura and I are fortunate to live in. Every day we are reminded about the greatness of our country, and we are a great country. We're a great country because we believe in human dignity and the rights of every person. We're a great country because we believe that no matter who you are or where you're from, you can succeed in America. We're a great country because free men and women can self-govern in a peaceful way, and we're a great country because we are blessed by the Almighty God.

Thank you all for coming. May God bless. Enjoy yourself.