2009 Intrepid Freedom Award.(Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates)(Speech)

As delivered by secretary of defense Robert M. Gates, New York City, NY, Thursday, May 21, 2009.

Brent [Scowcroft] is an example of patriotism, dedication, and total integrity that has inspired me for three-and-a-half decades. He is my friend and he is my role model. This event reminds me of a quote from Benjamin Franklin in talking about public service said one day people will raise him up and praise him and say Hosanna and the next day will say crucify him. And that is Washington today.

I'm honored to receive this year's Intrepid Freedom Award, and join an honor roll that includes, in part, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and four presidents of the United States. And it is especially amazing to be on this ship, with its storied history, in the presence of a number of its former crew.

Of course, it is "Fleet Week" in New York harbor, and let me especially welcome all the naval officers from our allied and partner nations, as well as members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard who are with us tonight. With the festivities in full swing, I can tell that many of you have been enjoying "the city that never sleeps." In fact, for many of you, this may have served as your personal motto this week. Ah, to be young.

My thanks to the Fisher family and the Intrepid Museum co-chairs and trustees for this honor, and more importantly, for everything you do to support our troops and their families through the Intrepid family of charitable organizations. In addition to the museum foundation, which gave this ship new life as a treasured landmark and educational center, there is:

* The Fisher House program, a unique public-private partnership that supports military families in their time of need;

* The Intrepid Relief Fund, which provides hardship and education assistance to troops and their families; and