Socialist Squirrel

Families United For Our Troops And Their Mission

Families United For Our Troops And Their Mission

Families United For Our Troops And Their Mission invited members to St. Paul Minnesota during the Republican National Convention to show support for our Troops, and their families, and to receive leadership training.

It all started afer arriving in The Twin Cities with a day at The Mall Of America, and a tour of Minneapolis / St. Paul on Friday August 29, 2008 by one of the Minnesota Families United members, Janet Biehoffer.

Saturday, was a day of leadership training for Emery and Queenie McClendon of Fort Wayne members of the Families United Group. Afterwards we were treated to a dinner at the Outback Steakhouse of Coon Rapids, Mn.

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On Sunday Morning we had breakfast and were then invited to a banquet at the Minneapolis Convention Center and a special screening of “An American Carol” A movie featuring Kevin Farley, Leslie Nielson, and John Voight. Lee Greenwood performed the music.

The hall was filled with food, celeberties, Delegates, Politicians, special guests, and I had the opportunity to shake Lee Greenwods hand and say a few words to him.

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On Monday morning we went to Triangle Park, located up the hill from the St. Paul Convention Center, the site of the RNC where we held a rally from 10:00 A.M. untill Noon. Attending were all of the leadership trainies and some Blue and Gold Star families from around the United States. Their stories were amazing, and touching as they spoke about the loss of their loved ones and the service and dedication of our Troops. Merrilee Carlson, the President of Families United was the Emcee, and we were treated to a surprise visit by John Voight, who gave an inspiring speech, and spent time with us signing autographs, and shaking hands.

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After his speech the anti protesters came to our area. We stood our ground letting those that serve our country know that we support them in the War On Terror. Even though over 300 people were arrested, and a lot of damage was done to downtown St. Paul by the anti-war groups, the Families United Group remained calm and peaceful in our support.

Families United For Our Troops and Their Mission is a nation wide group and has chapters in most States. NE Indiana now has a new Chair person serving so that we can become more involved helping the Troops and families from our area. One year ago Emery McClendon was a guest at The Breakfast at the White House with Families United.

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If you want to show your support for those that serve, our Gold and Blue Star Families, and our Veterans visit http://www.familiesunitedmission.com/

Together we can make a difference and show support to our military families and Troops.

Emery McClendon / KB9IBW
www.armad.net

To comment on this story, email to comment@newsblaze.com

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Update: Additional Remarks as Prepared for Delivery

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Below is the text of additional remarks that will be delivered as part of the 2008 Republican National Convention’s program this evening. The text is “as prepared for delivery” and it is embargoed until delivery. Full text will also be available later tonight on the 2008 Republican National Convention’s media portal at portal.GOPConvention2008.com under “Speeches.”

The full text of Cindy McCain’s remarks and John McCain’s acceptance speech will be made available later this evening.

This release includes remarks to be delivered by:

* Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention
* U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn (Tenn.)
* The Honorable Rosario Marin, Secretary of the California State and Consumer Services Agency
* Joe Watkins
* Joe Gibbs
* Bryan Clay

MARIA CINO

Good evening.

I’m Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

Hosting a convention for over 45,000 delegates, alternates, party officials, volunteers and media guests requires a lot of help.

So, let me thank all the staff, and volunteers that have worked so hard to bring the first Republican convention back to Minnesota in 116 years.

You know, putting on a convention is a lot like holding a circus.

You need a really big tent, elephants are always the star attraction, and from all over the country, young people have run away from home to join us.

I am talking about the young people who have come from all across the U.S. to become part of this convention staff.

Mix their youthful energy and a host of experienced professionals, and you have the winning team for putting on a great convention.

These young Republicans have also brought an energy and spirit that is visible throughout the region.

Just last month, GOP Convention staff completed over 1,000 hours of Community Service as part of the 2008 Republican National Convention’s American Neighbor volunteer Program.

Touched by the generosity of our host cities, the American Neighbor program is our small way of saying thank you for the hospitality shown to us by the people of Minneapolis - Saint Paul.

And over the past 18 months, convention staff has served meals at the Dorothy Day Center, shipped donations of food at Second Harvest Heartland, assisted in an Earth Day Watershed Cleanup event and volunteered at the Special Olympics.

We also helped send more than 80,000 comfort packets to Gulf Coast area.

We not only wanted to serve the Minneapolis-Saint Paul community, but we wanted to inspire and challenge Americans across the nation to take action in their own communities.

Our staff has embodied John McCain’s call to serving something greater than ourselves.

Last night, I was also grateful to be in the hall with all of you for the historic nomination of Sarah Palin.

Did you hear that roaring sound after her acceptance speech?

That was the sound of unstoppable Republican momentum.

And tonight, after John McCain accepts his nomination, we are going to launch McCain and Palin directly to Washington … with a speed that breaks barriers of glass and sound.

So on behalf of the entire convention team, my thanks to all of you for attending the 39th Republican National Convention and helping change our country.

U.S. REP. MARSHA BLACKBURN

Last night, for the first time in a long time, millions like me whispered to themselves, “thank God, someone finally gets it.” We heard a voice that spoke with the accent of real America, not the washed-out, mainstream TV-speak that sometimes soothes the soul, but never solves the problem.

We met a woman who, with the bravery that only the mother of five can summon, said “thanks but no thanks” to the good ole’ boy earmarks. And, it’s an honor for me to quote those constituents I heard from today when I say “It’s about damn time!”

To all the gray suits in the booths, who had their backs turned last night facing Washington, on behalf of the great gals in this room, I tell you — “listen up boys!”

As a wife, mother, business woman, and public servant; neither Governor Palin nor I need you to tell us what our limitations are, or when we might have taken on too much or reached too far.

Every working mother knows the value of action over deliberation and decision over debate.

Vice President Sarah Palin is going to be the most action-oriented, problem-solving, revolutionary second-in-command this country has ever known.

Tennesseans already know and respect John McCain, and love his “straight-talk” and unyielding sense of honor.

Last night my NASCAR dads fell in love with our hockey mom.

We are the gun totin’, God fearin,’ flag wavin’ Americans who are excited to see two crack shots on the ticket with the status quo in their sights. We don’t need to elect someone to install an ATM machine on Pennsylvania Avenue that debits your liberty to fund wasteful programs, and won’t do the one thing that can drive down gas prices.

We know the only place Senator Obama wants to drill is your wallet.

Leadership is not about creating perceptions, it’s about creating results.

And leadership is honed and tested on Alaska’s frontier, on the deck of an aircraft carrier and in a dark, squalid cell in Vietnam.

Last night, when I saw John and Sarah on the stage, I saw the brilliant spark of leadership catch fire illuminating the path to a brighter tomorrow.

THE HONORABLE ROSARIO MARIN

Buenas noches.

I am so thrilled to be here … especially after hearing last night from our Vice Presidential candidate, Sarah Palin!

You know, I was supposed to talk to you tonight about government reform and taxes.

But having seen how the media and our opponents have treated our nominee this week, I am compelled to talk about Sarah Palin.

After all, we have a few things in common.

Like her - and millions of women across this land - I am a working mom. I have three wonderful children who have blessed my life.

Like her, I have been underestimated.

Who would have thought the girl who came to this country from Mexico when she was 14-years-old without speaking English would become the first immigrant to serve as Treasurer of the United States?

Like her, I have been the mayor of a small town. I served Huntington Park - in the glorious state of California!

But most importantly - like her, I have had the privilege of raising a son with Down Syndrome.

Eric, my first-born, is now 23. He has been and will always be the Wind Beneath My Wings. As a matter of fact, my desire to impact government and make a positive difference in my community started, almost immediately, after Eric was born.

When I was running for office, I was criticized as Sarah Palin has been. And while painful, I knew that was the price I’d have to pay to leave this country a better place for Eric and others like him.

I know I speak for the millions of families that have a child with a disability: Who better than Sarah Palin to understand the daily challenges of raising a family while holding a job, working on a career or managing your own business?

Who better than her to understand our fears, our hopes and our dreams for all our children but especially those with disabilities?

Sarah Palin will serve alongside John McCain as a passionate advocate for Americans with special needs - breaking down both physical obstacles and false perceptions of people with disabilities and ensuring that all of our children have access to the jobs, education, and privileges that Americans enjoy. Senator McCain, thank you for your choosing Sarah Palin as our next Vice President.

You have given families like mine an accomplished leader, a true advocate and a clear voice.

I know in my heart that there could be no better champions in the White House for people with disabilities and their families than John McCain and Sarah Palin.

So let’s get them there!

Gracias!

JOE WATKINS

Ladies and Gentleman, I’m Joe Watkins from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

I’ve traveled the world on business to Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

But nothing compares with these United States of America.

This place is special, our people are special.

We are blessed to live in the greatest country on earth.

But do you know what makes us special? It’s our generosity of spirit.

Each night you’ve been asked to remember the people of the Gulf Coast who were put in harm’s way by recent hurricanes. Tonight, it’s my turn to make that same plea.

In the spirit of John McCain’s powerful belief in the good of America and his determination to restore its greatness, we take time to remember those in need.

He has sounded the call.

He has set the standard.

It is up to us to give what we can, in our thoughts, in our prayers, in our time … and in our dollars.

On Monday, Laura Bush and Cindy McCain asked us to support our fellow Americans in the Gulf States facing Hurricane Gustav.

In the coming days, our neighbors in the southern states of Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina are facing similar — and possibly more serious — challenges.

We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers. And we can also act.

On the screen behind me, we have listed two websites www.aidmatrix.com and www.causegreater.com. Please log on and make a commitment to help.

You can also text the American Red Cross at GIVE 2 HELP.

That number is 448-322-4375.

When you leave here tonight, don’t leave behind the people of the Gulf States or those along the Eastern seaboard who may be affected by coming storms.

Continue giving.

Continue volunteering.

Continue caring.

We leave this convention with outstanding nominees.

Let’s also leave with a renewed spirit of community and country that will last long after our convention and long after the election of John McCain.

JOE GIBBS

It’s a little awkward for me to put on a partisan hat. But, with all the media hype, I feel compelled to tell you where I stand.

Tonight, I’m supporting … the Washington Redskins, who are taking on the New York Giants!

Actually, I’m not here to cheer on my favorite football team. I’m here to share with you some observations based on my personal experience, which included financial disaster, a serious health problem, and yes, putting together the teams that went to three Super Bowls and won three NASCAR championships.

These lessons can help us in any competition - whether it takes place in a stadium or in the political arena. In troubled times, it’s human nature to feel vulnerable and weak — like nothing is going your way and it never will.

But I’ve found that the greatest challenges in life have the potential to call out our best virtues - to inspire and strengthen us.

I have seen it play out on the football field.

I have seen it happen on the racetrack.

I’ve seen it in the eyes of a child suffering from cancer.

And the world saw it when John McCain was released from the grip of evil in Vietnam.

It truly is a paradox that those who suffer can overcome extreme adversity and give the rest of us strength.

Faith is the reason.

Faith in family and friends - our first team, who we can rely on for support and protection.

Faith in God - he has the game plan and always sends in the right plays, if only we tune in our headsets.

And faith in oneself.

Applying these lessons to our everyday lives can help us overcome any obstacle.

They can even propel an average person to greatness.

America is blessed with an abundance of these uncommon heroes.

American icon Will Rogers observed that “We can’t all be heroes, because somebody has to sit on the curb and clap when they go by.”

I ask you to step onto the curb with me as we honor a true American hero - Senator John McCain!

By supporting the McCain-Palin ticket, I am confident that we are choosing the right game plan for America!

I believe that electing John McCain and Sarah Palin will spark a return to God’s Word and a spiritual revival that will bring our nation together. God bless you, and God bless America!

BRYAN CLAY

Aloha and good evening.

I am proud to be a gold medal winner representing the United States of America.

But my proudest accomplishment is being a dad to Jacob and Katherine.

For me, family values are the most important thing.

My priorities are: God first, family second, and track third. I can tell you that without my faith — in God, the support of my family and friends, and my strong work ethic — I would not be standing before you today with a Gold medal hanging around my neck.

Politicians and athletes have a lot in common.

Both are competitors — challenging one another.

And neither wins on his or her own.

Some of the best support I’ve received has come from one of my fiercest competitors, Roman Sebrele.

Roman is from the Czech Republic and is the current decathlon world record holder and 2004 Olympic gold medalist.

We were in Beijing on the second day of competition. I was exhausted. I walked over to Roman, who was not in a position to medal.

We began to chat about the next event, which was the dreaded 1500m run.

Roman said to me in his broken English, “I don’t run.” And I said, “You have to run.

You are the world record holder and a gold medalist - you have to run and finish.

I was with you in Athens and I want you to be with me when I win tonight.”

And he said “ok fine I run, but not fast.”

Roman helped pace me through the race.

After I crossed the finish line, it was Roman who walked over and held my arm up to celebrate this victory.

I’m the one competing in those 10 events, but I’m never alone.

My coaches, mentors, and most importantly, God and my family are a big part of my success, on and off the field.

Now, the big difference between the decathlon and politics is that when my race ends, I go back home and start training for the next Olympics.

But when the election ends, that’s when the real work begins.

And whether your platform is — a classroom, a conference room, a track or the White House, we all must stay true to our principles.

Whether you’re a decathlete or a politician, we must stand together and believe in each other, and this great nation.

Mahalo. God Bless you and may God Bless America.

About the Republican National Convention
The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul’s Xcel Energy Center from Sept. 1-4, 2008. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, members of the media and other guests are expected to attend the convention. Minneapolis-Saint Paul is expected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost from the four-day event. For more information about the 2008 Republican National Convention, please visit our website at www.GOPConvention2008.com and join our social network sites on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Sphere: Related Content

Update: Additional Remarks as Prepared for Delivery

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Below is the text of additional remarks that will be delivered as part of the 2008 Republican National Convention’s program this evening. The text is “as prepared for delivery” and it is embargoed until delivery. Full text will also be available later tonight on the 2008 Republican National Convention’s media portal at portal.GOPConvention2008.com under “Speeches.”

The full text of Cindy McCain’s remarks and John McCain’s acceptance speech will be made available later this evening.

This release includes remarks to be delivered by:

* Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention
* U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn (Tenn.)
* The Honorable Rosario Marin, Secretary of the California State and Consumer Services Agency
* Joe Watkins
* Joe Gibbs
* Bryan Clay

MARIA CINO

Good evening.

I’m Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

Hosting a convention for over 45,000 delegates, alternates, party officials, volunteers and media guests requires a lot of help.

So, let me thank all the staff, and volunteers that have worked so hard to bring the first Republican convention back to Minnesota in 116 years.

You know, putting on a convention is a lot like holding a circus.

You need a really big tent, elephants are always the star attraction, and from all over the country, young people have run away from home to join us.

I am talking about the young people who have come from all across the U.S. to become part of this convention staff.

Mix their youthful energy and a host of experienced professionals, and you have the winning team for putting on a great convention.

These young Republicans have also brought an energy and spirit that is visible throughout the region.

Just last month, GOP Convention staff completed over 1,000 hours of Community Service as part of the 2008 Republican National Convention’s American Neighbor volunteer Program.

Touched by the generosity of our host cities, the American Neighbor program is our small way of saying thank you for the hospitality shown to us by the people of Minneapolis - Saint Paul.

And over the past 18 months, convention staff has served meals at the Dorothy Day Center, shipped donations of food at Second Harvest Heartland, assisted in an Earth Day Watershed Cleanup event and volunteered at the Special Olympics.

We also helped send more than 80,000 comfort packets to Gulf Coast area.

We not only wanted to serve the Minneapolis-Saint Paul community, but we wanted to inspire and challenge Americans across the nation to take action in their own communities.

Our staff has embodied John McCain’s call to serving something greater than ourselves.

Last night, I was also grateful to be in the hall with all of you for the historic nomination of Sarah Palin.

Did you hear that roaring sound after her acceptance speech?

That was the sound of unstoppable Republican momentum.

And tonight, after John McCain accepts his nomination, we are going to launch McCain and Palin directly to Washington … with a speed that breaks barriers of glass and sound.

So on behalf of the entire convention team, my thanks to all of you for attending the 39th Republican National Convention and helping change our country.

U.S. REP. MARSHA BLACKBURN

Last night, for the first time in a long time, millions like me whispered to themselves, “thank God, someone finally gets it.” We heard a voice that spoke with the accent of real America, not the washed-out, mainstream TV-speak that sometimes soothes the soul, but never solves the problem.

We met a woman who, with the bravery that only the mother of five can summon, said “thanks but no thanks” to the good ole’ boy earmarks. And, it’s an honor for me to quote those constituents I heard from today when I say “It’s about damn time!”

To all the gray suits in the booths, who had their backs turned last night facing Washington, on behalf of the great gals in this room, I tell you — “listen up boys!”

As a wife, mother, business woman, and public servant; neither Governor Palin nor I need you to tell us what our limitations are, or when we might have taken on too much or reached too far.

Every working mother knows the value of action over deliberation and decision over debate.

Vice President Sarah Palin is going to be the most action-oriented, problem-solving, revolutionary second-in-command this country has ever known.

Tennesseans already know and respect John McCain, and love his “straight-talk” and unyielding sense of honor.

Last night my NASCAR dads fell in love with our hockey mom.

We are the gun totin’, God fearin,’ flag wavin’ Americans who are excited to see two crack shots on the ticket with the status quo in their sights. We don’t need to elect someone to install an ATM machine on Pennsylvania Avenue that debits your liberty to fund wasteful programs, and won’t do the one thing that can drive down gas prices.

We know the only place Senator Obama wants to drill is your wallet.

Leadership is not about creating perceptions, it’s about creating results.

And leadership is honed and tested on Alaska’s frontier, on the deck of an aircraft carrier and in a dark, squalid cell in Vietnam.

Last night, when I saw John and Sarah on the stage, I saw the brilliant spark of leadership catch fire illuminating the path to a brighter tomorrow.

THE HONORABLE ROSARIO MARIN

Buenas noches.

I am so thrilled to be here … especially after hearing last night from our Vice Presidential candidate, Sarah Palin!

You know, I was supposed to talk to you tonight about government reform and taxes.

But having seen how the media and our opponents have treated our nominee this week, I am compelled to talk about Sarah Palin.

After all, we have a few things in common.

Like her - and millions of women across this land - I am a working mom. I have three wonderful children who have blessed my life.

Like her, I have been underestimated.

Who would have thought the girl who came to this country from Mexico when she was 14-years-old without speaking English would become the first immigrant to serve as Treasurer of the United States?

Like her, I have been the mayor of a small town. I served Huntington Park - in the glorious state of California!

But most importantly - like her, I have had the privilege of raising a son with Down Syndrome.

Eric, my first-born, is now 23. He has been and will always be the Wind Beneath My Wings. As a matter of fact, my desire to impact government and make a positive difference in my community started, almost immediately, after Eric was born.

When I was running for office, I was criticized as Sarah Palin has been. And while painful, I knew that was the price I’d have to pay to leave this country a better place for Eric and others like him.

I know I speak for the millions of families that have a child with a disability: Who better than Sarah Palin to understand the daily challenges of raising a family while holding a job, working on a career or managing your own business?

Who better than her to understand our fears, our hopes and our dreams for all our children but especially those with disabilities?

Sarah Palin will serve alongside John McCain as a passionate advocate for Americans with special needs - breaking down both physical obstacles and false perceptions of people with disabilities and ensuring that all of our children have access to the jobs, education, and privileges that Americans enjoy. Senator McCain, thank you for your choosing Sarah Palin as our next Vice President.

You have given families like mine an accomplished leader, a true advocate and a clear voice.

I know in my heart that there could be no better champions in the White House for people with disabilities and their families than John McCain and Sarah Palin.

So let’s get them there!

Gracias!

JOE WATKINS

Ladies and Gentleman, I’m Joe Watkins from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

I’ve traveled the world on business to Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

But nothing compares with these United States of America.

This place is special, our people are special.

We are blessed to live in the greatest country on earth.

But do you know what makes us special? It’s our generosity of spirit.

Each night you’ve been asked to remember the people of the Gulf Coast who were put in harm’s way by recent hurricanes. Tonight, it’s my turn to make that same plea.

In the spirit of John McCain’s powerful belief in the good of America and his determination to restore its greatness, we take time to remember those in need.

He has sounded the call.

He has set the standard.

It is up to us to give what we can, in our thoughts, in our prayers, in our time … and in our dollars.

On Monday, Laura Bush and Cindy McCain asked us to support our fellow Americans in the Gulf States facing Hurricane Gustav.

In the coming days, our neighbors in the southern states of Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina are facing similar — and possibly more serious — challenges.

We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers. And we can also act.

On the screen behind me, we have listed two websites www.aidmatrix.com and www.causegreater.com. Please log on and make a commitment to help.

You can also text the American Red Cross at GIVE 2 HELP.

That number is 448-322-4375.

When you leave here tonight, don’t leave behind the people of the Gulf States or those along the Eastern seaboard who may be affected by coming storms.

Continue giving.

Continue volunteering.

Continue caring.

We leave this convention with outstanding nominees.

Let’s also leave with a renewed spirit of community and country that will last long after our convention and long after the election of John McCain.

JOE GIBBS

It’s a little awkward for me to put on a partisan hat. But, with all the media hype, I feel compelled to tell you where I stand.

Tonight, I’m supporting … the Washington Redskins, who are taking on the New York Giants!

Actually, I’m not here to cheer on my favorite football team. I’m here to share with you some observations based on my personal experience, which included financial disaster, a serious health problem, and yes, putting together the teams that went to three Super Bowls and won three NASCAR championships.

These lessons can help us in any competition - whether it takes place in a stadium or in the political arena. In troubled times, it’s human nature to feel vulnerable and weak — like nothing is going your way and it never will.

But I’ve found that the greatest challenges in life have the potential to call out our best virtues - to inspire and strengthen us.

I have seen it play out on the football field.

I have seen it happen on the racetrack.

I’ve seen it in the eyes of a child suffering from cancer.

And the world saw it when John McCain was released from the grip of evil in Vietnam.

It truly is a paradox that those who suffer can overcome extreme adversity and give the rest of us strength.

Faith is the reason.

Faith in family and friends - our first team, who we can rely on for support and protection.

Faith in God - he has the game plan and always sends in the right plays, if only we tune in our headsets.

And faith in oneself.

Applying these lessons to our everyday lives can help us overcome any obstacle.

They can even propel an average person to greatness.

America is blessed with an abundance of these uncommon heroes.

American icon Will Rogers observed that “We can’t all be heroes, because somebody has to sit on the curb and clap when they go by.”

I ask you to step onto the curb with me as we honor a true American hero - Senator John McCain!

By supporting the McCain-Palin ticket, I am confident that we are choosing the right game plan for America!

I believe that electing John McCain and Sarah Palin will spark a return to God’s Word and a spiritual revival that will bring our nation together. God bless you, and God bless America!

BRYAN CLAY

Aloha and good evening.

I am proud to be a gold medal winner representing the United States of America.

But my proudest accomplishment is being a dad to Jacob and Katherine.

For me, family values are the most important thing.

My priorities are: God first, family second, and track third. I can tell you that without my faith — in God, the support of my family and friends, and my strong work ethic — I would not be standing before you today with a Gold medal hanging around my neck.

Politicians and athletes have a lot in common.

Both are competitors — challenging one another.

And neither wins on his or her own.

Some of the best support I’ve received has come from one of my fiercest competitors, Roman Sebrele.

Roman is from the Czech Republic and is the current decathlon world record holder and 2004 Olympic gold medalist.

We were in Beijing on the second day of competition. I was exhausted. I walked over to Roman, who was not in a position to medal.

We began to chat about the next event, which was the dreaded 1500m run.

Roman said to me in his broken English, “I don’t run.” And I said, “You have to run.

You are the world record holder and a gold medalist - you have to run and finish.

I was with you in Athens and I want you to be with me when I win tonight.”

And he said “ok fine I run, but not fast.”

Roman helped pace me through the race.

After I crossed the finish line, it was Roman who walked over and held my arm up to celebrate this victory.

I’m the one competing in those 10 events, but I’m never alone.

My coaches, mentors, and most importantly, God and my family are a big part of my success, on and off the field.

Now, the big difference between the decathlon and politics is that when my race ends, I go back home and start training for the next Olympics.

But when the election ends, that’s when the real work begins.

And whether your platform is — a classroom, a conference room, a track or the White House, we all must stay true to our principles.

Whether you’re a decathlete or a politician, we must stand together and believe in each other, and this great nation.

Mahalo. God Bless you and may God Bless America.

About the Republican National Convention
The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul’s Xcel Energy Center from Sept. 1-4, 2008. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, members of the media and other guests are expected to attend the convention. Minneapolis-Saint Paul is expected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost from the four-day event. For more information about the 2008 Republican National Convention, please visit our website at www.GOPConvention2008.com and join our social network sites on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

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Full Text: Remarks by Mrs. Cindy McCain

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - This evening Mrs. Cindy McCain will address the 2008 Republican National Convention. Mrs. McCain will speak about John McCain’s character and love for his country and family. Her remarks, as prepared for delivery, are below.

MRS. CINDY McCAIN

Thank you everyone.

John and I are so proud of them and so happy to have them here with us tonight.

Nothing has made me happier or more fulfilled in my life than being a mother.

But while John and I take great joy in having been able to spend time together this week as a family, our hearts go out to the thousands of families who have had to leave their homes once again due to devastating weather.

It is not only our natural instinct to rally to them, to lift them up with our prayers and come to their aid, it is also our duty to our country.

That duty is what brings me before you tonight. And it’s much larger and more important than just me or John or any of us: It’s the work of this great country calling us together - and there is no greater duty than that, no more essential task for our generation — right now.

That’s been very much on my mind these last few months as I traveled our country.

Each day, after the bands packed up, the speeches were done, and the camera lights darkened, I always came back to how blessed and honored I was to be part of our national conversation.

And in these times, when so many of our fellow Americans face difficult situations, what I saw moved me deeply.

Families worried about losing their homes.

Towns deserted by industries once at their center.

Mothers with no choice but to send their children to unsafe and underperforming schools.

But I have also seen the resilience of the American people. I’ve heard stirring stories of neighbor helping neighbor, of cities on one end of the country offering help to fellow citizens on the other.

Despite our challenges our hearts are still alive with hope and belief in our individual ability to make things right if only the Federal government would get itself under control and out of our way.

So tonight is also about renewing our commitment to one another.

Because this campaign is not about us. It’s about our special and exceptional country.

And this convention celebrates a special and exceptional Republican Party … the hand we feel on our shoulder belongs to Abraham Lincoln.

Our country was born amidst the struggle for freedom … and our party arose from a great battle for human rights, dignity, and equality for all people. We give way to no one and no other party in that cause.

From its very birth, our party has been grounded in the notion of service, community and self-reliance … and it’s all tempered by an uniquely American faith in - and compassion for - each other’s neighbors.

A helping hand and friendly support has always been our way. It’s no surprise that Americans are the most generous people in history.

That generosity of spirit is in our national DNA. It’s our way of doing things. It’s how we view the world.

I was taught Americans can look at the world and ask either: what do other countries think of us … or we can look at ourselves and ask: what would our forefathers make of us and what will our children say of us? That’s a big challenge. In living up to it, we know the security and prosperity of our nation is about a lot more than just politics.

It also depends on personal commitment, a sense of history and a clear view of the future.

I know of no one who better defines how to do that … whose life is a better example of how to go about that than the man I love and with whom I have shared almost 30 years of my life:

My husband, John McCain.

From the beginning of time, no matter how accomplished in other fields, women have always sought a husband with an eye to what kind of father that man would be.

Well, I hit a home run with John McCain!

I got the most marvelous husband and friend and confidant … a source of strength and inspiration … and also the best father you could ever imagine.

In that most sacred role, he brought to our children his great personal character … his life-long example of honesty… and his steadfast devotion to honor.

He has shown the value of self-sacrifice by daily example and, above all… John showers us with the unconditional love and support every family dreams of. I know what his children say of him.

And his courageous service to America in war and peace leaves no doubt what our forefathers would make of him!

It’s these virtues of character that led him to this campaign, to this moment.

John McCain is a steadfast man who will not break with our heritage … no matter how demanding or dangerous the challenges at home or abroad.

And let’s not be confused: these are perilous times, not just for America, but for freedom itself.

It’s going to take someone of unusual strength and character - someone exactly like my husband - to lead us through the reefs and currents that lie ahead. I know John.

You can trust his hand at the wheel.

But you know what, I’ve always thought it’s a good idea to have a woman’s hand on the wheel as well.

So how about Governor Sarah Palin!

John has picked a reform-minded … hockey-mommin’ … basketball shootin’ … moose huntin’ … fly-fishin’ … pistol-packing … mother of five for vice president. And as a fellow hockey mom myself and a western conservative mother, I couldn’t be prouder that John has shaken things up as he usually does!

No one can do the job alone. And that’s why I’m glad John will have Governor Palin by his side.

We all to have work together … build consensus - the way John has done all his life.

His leadership inspires and empowers … and places ultimate success in all our hands.

Ronald Reagan was fond of saying, “with freedom goes responsibility — a responsibility that can only be met by the individual himself.”

I have been witness to great service and sacrifice - to lives lived with humility and grace.

In World War II, my father’s B-17 was shot down three times. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

But he was quiet about that… and never claimed to have done more than his small share.

Just like my husband.

I think John was a hero in Vietnam.

But he thinks it was just his turn.

Our son, Jack, will graduate from the United States Naval Academy next year - fourth generation - ready to do his service.

And our son Jimmy - a lance corporal in the Marine Corps - served honorably in Iraq … as hundreds of thousands of other young men and women just like him are doing for America and freedom everywhere.

The stakes were never more clear to me, than the morning I watched my son Jimmy strap on his weapons and board a bus headed for harm’s way.

I was born and raised in the American West and will always see the world through the prism of its values.

My Father was a true “Western Gentleman.”

He rose from hardscrabble roots to realize the American dream.

With only a few borrowed dollars in his pocket, a strong back and a can-do spirit, he built a great life for his family.

His handshake was his solemn oath. He looked you straight in the eye and he always believed the best of you unless you gave him good cause not to.

Modest and good-natured, he had deep roots in our American soil.

He taught me life is not just about you - it’s also about nurturing the next generation … preparing a better world for all our children and helping them find the right way up.

We all come to that knowledge in different ways. For me, the great moment of clarity came when I became a mother.

Something changed in me, and I would never see my obligations the same way.

It was after that, I was walking through the streets of Dhaka, Bangladesh, surrounded by terrible poverty and the devastation of a cyclone.

All around me were the children, and the desperate faces of their mothers. The pain was overwhelming … and I felt helpless.

But then I visited an orphanage begun by Mother Teresa, and two very sick little girls captured my heart.

There was something I could do. I could take them home.

And so I did.

Today both of those girls are healthy and happy. And one of them you just met: our beautiful daughter, Bridget.

Much is expected of a country as blessed as America … and our people are at work all over the globe … making it a better planet … doing their part.

It was my privilege to work with the men and women of the American Voluntary Medical Teams in places like Zaire, Micronesia and Vietnam … watching as they relieved whole towns from disease … and rescued countless children from sickness.

The reward for sharing in that work is truly indescribable.

To see a child rescued from a life in the shadows by Operation Smile is to witness and share a joy that is life-changing.

And the challenges go on.

I just returned from the Republic of Georgia, where HALO Trust - an organization specializing in clearing the debris of war - and others, are rescuing innocent victims from landmines and missiles.

Sometimes the courage of others leaves me breathless.

I only need to speak the word Rwanda and the images it conjures are beyond description.

In my box tonight is Ernestine, a woman, a friend, a mother like myself, whom I met in Kigali.

She suffered unimaginable horrors and was made to watch appalling havoc wreaked on her family.

Yet, as the violence in her country subsides, she doesn’t seek retribution — instead, she offers love and seeks reconciliation for her people.

She says, simply, “It’s time to move on for me and my country.”

Ernestine, would you please stand up?

Your courage is humbling. Your forgiveness is healing. You are my hero.

Forgiveness is not just a personal issue: it’s why John led the effort to normalize relations with Vietnam … to retrieve the remains of our MIAs… to bring closure to both sides.

That’s leadership - national leadership. And it’s leading by example.

The Presidential contest will begin in earnest when this convention closes.

If Americans want straight talk and the plain truth they should take a good close look at John McCain … a man tested and true … … who’s never wavered in his devotion to our country … … a man who’s served in Washington without ever becoming a Washington insider… … who always speaks the truth no matter what the cost… … a man of judgment and character … … a loyal and loving and true husband and a magnificent father!

This is a good man, a worthy man … I know.

I have loved him with all my heart for almost 30 years … and I humbly recommend him to you tonight as our nominee for the next President of the United States!

I’m so grateful to have had the chance to speak with you tonight … and for the honor you are about to grant my husband — and, indeed, our entire family. I promise you I will work every day to help John strengthen our freedom … to serve this great country with the honor, dignity and the love it deserves … from each and every generation it blesses.

May God bless all of you: … our beloved America … the citizens of the Gulf Coast … and all the sons and daughters serving this great country around the world tonight.

Thank you.

About the Republican National Convention
The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul’s Xcel Energy Center from Sept. 1-4, 2008. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, members of the media and other guests are expected to attend the convention. Minneapolis-Saint Paul is expected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost from the four-day event. For more information about the 2008 Republican National Convention, please visit our website at www.GOPConvention2008.com and join our social network sites on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

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Full Text: Remarks by John McCain

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - This evening U.S. Sen. John McCain will accept the Republican Party’s nomination for President of the United States. The full text of Sen. McCain’s acceptance speech, as prepared for delivery, is below.

U.S. Sen. John McCain

Thank you all very much. Tonight, I have a privilege given few Americans — the privilege of accepting our party’s nomination for President of the United States. And I accept it with gratitude, humility and confidence.

In my life, no success has come without a good fight, and this nomination wasn’t any different. That’s a tribute to the candidates who opposed me and their supporters. They’re leaders of great ability, who love our country, and wished to lead it to better days. Their support is an honor I won’t forget.

I’m grateful to the President for leading us in those dark days following the worst attack on American soil in our history, and keeping us safe from another attack many thought was inevitable; and to the First Lady, Laura Bush, a model of grace and kindness in public and in private. And I’m grateful to the 41st President and his bride of 63 years, and for their outstanding example of honorable service to our country.

As always, I’m indebted to my wife, Cindy, and my seven children. The pleasures of family life can seem like a brief holiday from the crowded calendar of our nation’s business. But I have treasured them all the more, and can’t imagine a life without the happiness you give me. Cindy said a lot of nice things about me tonight. But, in truth, she’s more my inspiration than I am hers. Her concern for those less blessed than we are - victims of land mines, children born in poverty and with birth defects - shows the measure of her humanity. I know she will make a great First Lady.

When I was growing up, my father was often at sea, and the job of raising my brother, sister and me would fall to my mother alone. Roberta McCain gave us her love of life, her deep interest in the world, her strength, and her belief we are all meant to use our opportunities to make ourselves useful to our country. I wouldn’t be here tonight but for the strength of her character.

My heartfelt thanks to all of you, who helped me win this nomination, and stood by me when the odds were long. I won’t let you down. To Americans who have yet to decide who to vote for, thank you for your consideration and the opportunity to win your trust. I intend to earn it.

Finally, a word to Senator Obama and his supporters. We’ll go at it over the next two months. That’s the nature of these contests, and there are big differences between us. But you have my respect and admiration. Despite our differences, much more unites us than divides us. We are fellow Americans, an association that means more to me than any other. We’re dedicated to the proposition that all people are created equal and endowed by our Creator with inalienable rights. No country ever had a greater cause than that. And I wouldn’t be an American worthy of the name if I didn’t honor Senator Obama and his supporters for their achievement.

But let there be no doubt, my friends, we’re going to win this election. And after we’ve won, we’re going to reach out our hand to any willing patriot, make this government start working for you again, and get this country back on the road to prosperity and peace.

These are tough times for many of you. You’re worried about keeping your job or finding a new one, and are struggling to put food on the table and stay in your home. All you ever asked of government is to stand on your side, not in your way. And that’s just what I intend to do: stand on your side and fight for your future.

And I’ve found just the right partner to help me shake up Washington, Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska. She has executive experience and a real record of accomplishment. She’s tackled tough problems like energy independence and corruption. She’s balanced a budget, cut taxes, and taken on the special interests. She’s reached across the aisle and asked Republicans, Democrats and Independents to serve in her administration. She’s the mother of five children. She’s helped run a small business, worked with her hands and knows what it’s like to worry about mortgage payments and health care and the cost of gasoline and groceries.

She knows where she comes from and she knows who she works for. She stands up for what’s right, and she doesn’t let anyone tell her to sit down. I’m very proud to have introduced our next Vice President to the country. But I can’t wait until I introduce her to Washington. And let me offer an advance warning to the old, big spending, do nothing, me first, country second Washington crowd: change is coming.

I’m not in the habit of breaking promises to my country and neither is Governor Palin. And when we tell you we’re going to change Washington, and stop leaving our country’s problems for some unluckier generation to fix, you can count on it. We’ve got a record of doing just that, and the strength, experience, judgment and backbone to keep our word to you.

You know, I’ve been called a maverick; someone who marches to the beat of his own drum. Sometimes it’s meant as a compliment and sometimes it’s not. What it really means is I understand who I work for. I don’t work for a party. I don’t work for a special interest. I don’t work for myself. I work for you.

I’ve fought corruption, and it didn’t matter if the culprits were Democrats or Republicans. They violated their public trust, and had to be held accountable. I’ve fought big spenders in both parties, who waste your money on things you neither need nor want, while you struggle to buy groceries, fill your gas tank and make your mortgage payment. I’ve fought to get million dollar checks out of our elections. I’ve fought lobbyists who stole from Indian tribes. I fought crooked deals in the Pentagon. I fought tobacco companies and trial lawyers, drug companies and union bosses.

I fought for the right strategy and more troops in Iraq, when it wasn’t a popular thing to do. And when the pundits said my campaign was finished, I said I’d rather lose an election than see my country lose a war.

Thanks to the leadership of a brilliant general, David Petraeus, and the brave men and women he has the honor to command, that strategy succeeded and rescued us from a defeat that would have demoralized our military, risked a wider war and threatened the security of all Americans.

I don’t mind a good fight. For reasons known only to God, I’ve had quite a few tough ones in my life. But I learned an important lesson along the way. In the end, it matters less that you can fight. What you fight for is the real test.

I fight for Americans. I fight for you. I fight for Bill and Sue Nebe from Farmington Hills, Michigan, who lost their real estate investments in the bad housing market. Bill got a temporary job after he was out of work for seven months. Sue works three jobs to help pay the bills.

I fight for Jake and Toni Wimmer of Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Jake works on a loading dock; coaches Little League, and raises money for the mentally and physically disabled. Toni is a schoolteacher, working toward her Master’s Degree. They have two sons, the youngest, Luke, has been diagnosed with autism. Their lives should matter to the people they elect to office. They matter to me.

I fight for the family of Matthew Stanley of Wolfboro, New Hampshire, who died serving our country in Iraq. I wear his bracelet and think of him every day. I intend to honor their sacrifice by making sure the country their son loved so well and never returned to, remains safe from its enemies.

I fight to restore the pride and principles of our party. We were elected to change Washington, and we let Washington change us. We lost the trust of the American people when some Republicans gave in to the temptations of corruption. We lost their trust when rather than reform government, both parties made it bigger. We lost their trust when instead of freeing ourselves from a dangerous dependence on foreign oil, both parties and Senator Obama passed another corporate welfare bill for oil companies. We lost their trust, when we valued our power over our principles.

We’re going to change that. We’re going to recover the people’s trust by standing up again for the values Americans admire. The party of Lincoln, Roosevelt and Reagan is going to get back to basics.

We believe everyone has something to contribute and deserves the opportunity to reach their God-given potential from the boy whose descendents arrived on the Mayflower to the Latina daughter of migrant workers. We’re all God’s children and we’re all Americans.

We believe in low taxes; spending discipline, and open markets. We believe in rewarding hard work and risk takers and letting people keep the fruits of their labor.

We believe in a strong defense, work, faith, service, a culture of life, personal responsibility, the rule of law, and judges who dispense justice impartially and don’t legislate from the bench. We believe in the values of families, neighborhoods and communities.

We believe in a government that unleashes the creativity and initiative of Americans. Government that doesn’t make your choices for you, but works to make sure you have more choices to make for yourself.

I will keep taxes low and cut them where I can. My opponent will raise them. I will open new markets to our goods and services. My opponent will close them. I will cut government spending. He will increase it.

My tax cuts will create jobs. His tax increases will eliminate them. My health care plan will make it easier for more Americans to find and keep good health care insurance. His plan will force small businesses to cut jobs, reduce wages, and force families into a government run health care system where a bureaucrat stands between you and your doctor.

Keeping taxes low helps small businesses grow and create new jobs. Cutting the second highest business tax rate in the world will help American companies compete and keep jobs from moving overseas. Doubling the child tax exemption from $3500 to $7000 will improve the lives of millions of American families. Reducing government spending and getting rid of failed programs will let you keep more of your own money to save, spend and invest as you see fit. Opening new markets and preparing workers to compete in the world economy is essential to our future prosperity.

I know some of you have been left behind in the changing economy and it often seems your government hasn’t even noticed. Government assistance for unemployed workers was designed for the economy of the 1950s. That’s going to change on my watch. My opponent promises to bring back old jobs by wishing away the global economy. We’re going to help workers who’ve lost a job that won’t come back, find a new one that won’t go away.

We will prepare them for the jobs of today. We will use our community colleges to help train people for new opportunities in their communities. For workers in industries that have been hard hit, we’ll help make up part of the difference in wages between their old job and a temporary, lower paid one while they receive retraining that will help them find secure new employment at a decent wage.

Education is the civil rights issue of this century. Equal access to public education has been gained. But what is the value of access to a failing school? We need to shake up failed school bureaucracies with competition, empower parents with choice, remove barriers to qualified instructors, attract and reward good teachers, and help bad teachers find another line of work.

When a public school fails to meet its obligations to students, parents deserve a choice in the education of their children. And I intend to give it to them. Some may choose a better public school. Some may choose a private one. Many will choose a charter school. But they will have that choice and their children will have that opportunity.

Senator Obama wants our schools to answer to unions and entrenched bureaucracies. I want schools to answer to parents and students. And when I’m President, they will.

My fellow Americans, when I’m President, we’re going to embark on the most ambitious national project in decades. We are going to stop sending $700 billion a year to countries that don’t like us very much. We will attack the problem on every front. We will produce more energy at home. We will drill new wells offshore, and we’ll drill them now. We will build more nuclear power plants. We will develop clean coal technology. We will increase the use of wind, tide, solar and natural gas. We will encourage the development and use of flex fuel, hybrid and electric automobiles.

Senator Obama thinks we can achieve energy independence without more drilling and without more nuclear power. But Americans know better than that. We must use all resources and develop all technologies necessary to rescue our economy from the damage caused by rising oil prices and to restore the health of our planet. It’s an ambitious plan, but Americans are ambitious by nature, and we have faced greater challenges. It’s time for us to show the world again how Americans lead.

This great national cause will create millions of new jobs, many in industries that will be the engine of our future prosperity; jobs that will be there when your children enter the workforce.

Today, the prospect of a better world remains within our reach. But we must see the threats to peace and liberty in our time clearly and face them, as Americans before us did, with confidence, wisdom and resolve.

We have dealt a serious blow to al Qaeda in recent years. But they are not defeated, and they’ll strike us again if they can. Iran remains the chief state sponsor of terrorism and on the path to acquiring nuclear weapons. Russia’s leaders, rich with oil wealth and corrupt with power, have rejected democratic ideals and the obligations of a responsible power. They invaded a small, democratic neighbor to gain more control over the world’s oil supply, intimidate other neighbors, and further their ambitions of reassembling the Russian empire. And the brave people of Georgia need our solidarity and prayers. As President, I will work to establish good relations with Russia so we need not fear a return of the Cold War. But we can’t turn a blind eye to aggression and international lawlessness that threatens the peace and stability of the world and the security of the American people.

We face many threats in this dangerous world, but I’m not afraid of them. I’m prepared for them. I know how the military works, what it can do, what it can do better, and what it should not do. I know how the world works. I know the good and the evil in it. I know how to work with leaders who share our dreams of a freer, safer and more prosperous world, and how to stand up to those who don’t. I know how to secure the peace.

When I was five years old, a car pulled up in front of our house. A Navy officer rolled down the window, and shouted at my father that the Japanese had bombed Pearl Harbor. I rarely saw my father again for four years. My grandfather came home from that same war exhausted from the burdens he had borne, and died the next day. In Vietnam, where I formed the closest friendships of my life, some of those friends never came home with me. I hate war. It is terrible beyond imagination.

I’m running for President to keep the country I love safe, and prevent other families from risking their loved ones in war as my family has. I will draw on all my experience with the world and its leaders, and all the tools at our disposal - diplomatic, economic, military and the power of our ideals - to build the foundations for a stable and enduring peace.

In America, we change things that need to be changed. Each generation makes its contribution to our greatness. The work that is ours to do is plainly before us. We don’t need to search for it.

We need to change the way government does almost everything: from the way we protect our security to the way we compete in the world economy; from the way we respond to disasters to the way we fuel our transportation network; from the way we train our workers to the way we educate our children. All these functions of government were designed before the rise of the global economy, the information technology revolution and the end of the Cold War. We have to catch up to history, and we have to change the way we do business in Washington.

The constant partisan rancor that stops us from solving these problems isn’t a cause, it’s a symptom. It’s what happens when people go to Washington to work for themselves and not you.

Again and again, I’ve worked with members of both parties to fix problems that need to be fixed. That’s how I will govern as President. I will reach out my hand to anyone to help me get this country moving again. I have that record and the scars to prove it. Senator Obama does not.

Instead of rejecting good ideas because we didn’t think of them first, let’s use the best ideas from both sides. Instead of fighting over who gets the credit, let’s try sharing it. This amazing country can do anything we put our minds to. I will ask Democrats and Independents to serve with me. And my administration will set a new standard for transparency and accountability.

We’re going to finally start getting things done for the people who are counting on us, and I won’t care who gets the credit.

I’ve been an imperfect servant of my country for many years. But I have been her servant first, last and always. And I’ve never lived a day, in good times or bad, that I didn’t thank God for the privilege.

Long ago, something unusual happened to me that taught me the most valuable lesson of my life. I was blessed by misfortune. I mean that sincerely. I was blessed because I served in the company of heroes, and I witnessed a thousand acts of courage, compassion and love.

On an October morning, in the Gulf of Tonkin, I prepared for my 23rd mission over North Vietnam. I hadn’t any worry I wouldn’t come back safe and sound. I thought I was tougher than anyone. I was pretty independent then, too. I liked to bend a few rules, and pick a few fights for the fun of it. But I did it for my own pleasure; my own pride. I didn’t think there was a cause more important than me.

Then I found myself falling toward the middle of a small lake in the city of Hanoi, with two broken arms, a broken leg, and an angry crowd waiting to greet me. I was dumped in a dark cell, and left to die. I didn’t feel so tough anymore. When they discovered my father was an admiral, they took me to a hospital. They couldn’t set my bones properly, so they just slapped a cast on me. When I didn’t get better, and was down to about a hundred pounds, they put me in a cell with two other Americans. I couldn’t do anything. I couldn’t even feed myself. They did it for me. I was beginning to learn the limits of my selfish independence. Those men saved my life.

I was in solitary confinement when my captors offered to release me. I knew why. If I went home, they would use it as propaganda to demoralize my fellow prisoners. Our Code said we could only go home in the order of our capture, and there were men who had been shot down before me. I thought about it, though. I wasn’t in great shape, and I missed everything about America. But I turned it down.

A lot of prisoners had it worse than I did. I’d been mistreated before, but not as badly as others. I always liked to strut a little after I’d been roughed up to show the other guys I was tough enough to take it. But after I turned down their offer, they worked me over harder than they ever had before. For a long time. And they broke me.

When they brought me back to my cell, I was hurt and ashamed, and I didn’t know how I could face my fellow prisoners. The good man in the cell next door, my friend, Bob Craner, saved me. Through taps on a wall he told me I had fought as hard as I could. No man can always stand alone. And then he told me to get back up and fight again for our country and for the men I had the honor to serve with. Because every day they fought for me.

I fell in love with my country when I was a prisoner in someone else’s. I loved it not just for the many comforts of life here. I loved it for its decency; for its faith in the wisdom, justice and goodness of its people. I loved it because it was not just a place, but an idea, a cause worth fighting for. I was never the same again. I wasn’t my own man anymore. I was my country’s.

I’m not running for president because I think I’m blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save our country in its hour of need. My country saved me. My country saved me, and I cannot forget it. And I will fight for her for as long as I draw breath, so help me God.

If you find faults with our country, make it a better one. If you’re disappointed with the mistakes of government, join its ranks and work to correct them. Enlist in our Armed Forces. Become a teacher. Enter the ministry. Run for public office. Feed a hungry child. Teach an illiterate adult to read. Comfort the afflicted. Defend the rights of the oppressed. Our country will be the better, and you will be the happier. Because nothing brings greater happiness in life than to serve a cause greater than yourself.

I’m going to fight for my cause every day as your President. I’m going to fight to make sure every American has every reason to thank God, as I thank Him: that I’m an American, a proud citizen of the greatest country on earth, and with hard work, strong faith and a little courage, great things are always within our reach. Fight with me. Fight with me.

Fight for what’s right for our country.

Fight for the ideals and character of a free people.

Fight for our children’s future.

Fight for justice and opportunity for all.

Stand up to defend our country from its enemies.

Stand up for each other; for beautiful, blessed, bountiful America.

Stand up, stand up, stand up and fight. Nothing is inevitable here. We’re Americans, and we never give up. We never quit. We never hide from history. We make history.

Thank you, and God Bless you.

About the Republican National Convention
The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul’s Xcel Energy Center from Sept. 1-4, 2008. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, members of the media and other guests are expected to attend the convention. Minneapolis-Saint Paul is expected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost from the four-day event. For more information about the 2008 Republican National Convention, please visit our website at www.GOPConvention2008.com and join our social network sites on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

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Dear Friend,

When I formally accepted our Party’s nomination at the Republican National Convention, I had you and every other American who has rallied to our cause in my heart and on my mind. I thank you, once again, for all you have done.

As we move forward, we enter a new phase in the campaign — the General Election.  It will be hard-fought and difficult.  The political tide is pulling against our Party and the media is practically giddy in their affectionate coverage of Barack Obama and the Democrats.

The situation is serious but certainly not hopeless.  We can win, as we have in the past, if we unite together for these remaining 60 days until the election.

But we must do it now!

I urgently need you to redouble your commitment to our cause by making a secure online contribution of $2,000, $1,000, $500, $250, $100, $50 or $25 to provide RNC Victory 2008 the backing it needs as we begin the General Election campaign in earnest.

We need to raise $50 million for Victory 2008 in September alone to keep pace with the Obama-Biden Democrats.  These funds are critically important for voter identification, organization and get-out-the-vote efforts that will make all the difference between winning and losing on Election Day.

Remember, in 2000 and 2004, the difference in the election was just a handful of votes in a few precincts in key states.  When you consider that $50 is about what it costs to turn-out 150 voters, you can see how every contribution matters.

So please make a secure online contribution of $2,000, $1,000, $500, $250, $100, $50 or $25 to RNC Victory 2008 to help our Party kick-off the General Election phase of the campaign with the greatest strength possible.

With your support for RNC Victory 2008 today, we can reform our government and lead America to prosperity and peace.  Please let me hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

John McCain

P.S.  We have now entered the final phase in the campaign — the General Election.  It will be hard-fought and difficult.  But I know with friends like you standing with us, we can win on November 4th.  The best thing you can do right now to help our Party is to make a secure online contribution of $2,000, $1,000, $500, $250, $100, $50 or $25 to RNC Victory 2008 today.  Thank you

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