President Donald Trump delivered the commencement speech at the U.S. Naval Academy last week and personally congratulated the more than 1,000 newly commissioned U.S. Navy and Marine Corps officers.
Following the commencement speech, President Trump shook the hands of every single man and woman who crossed the stage to receive their diplomas.
The graduates will now begin their five year service, usually as either ensigns in the Navy or second lieutenants in the Marine Corps.
The commencement address, a tradition for sitting presidents, included high praise for the men and women who have committed to serving in “the mightiest fighting forces of the air, the land and the sea.”
These are the top five quotes from Trump’s speech:
“Four years ago, each of you made the most important decision of your lives,” Trump said. “You chose the path of hard work, sweat, and sacrifice. You chose the life of honor, courage, and commitment. You chose to serve the nation and defend our great American flag.”
“You are now leaders in the most powerful and righteous force on the face of the planet. The United States military. And we are respected again, I can tell you that. We are respected again,” Trump said.
“America is the greatest fighting force for peace, justice, and freedom in the history of the world. And in case you have not noticed, we have become a lot stronger lately. A lot.”
“We are not going to apologize for America,” Trump proclaimed. “We are going to stand up for America. No more apologies. We are going to stand up for our citizens. We are going to stand up for our values. And we are going to stand up for our men and women in uniform.”
“Each of you enters service at a truly exciting time for our country. For we are witnessing the great reawakening of the American spirit and of American might. We have rediscovered our identity, regained our stride, and we are proud again. Prosperity is booming at home. Our economy is the strongest it has ever been. And our country has regained the respect that we used to have long ago abroad. Yes, they are respecting us again. Yes, America is back.”
