U.S. Senator John McCain of Arizona | This address by the Honorable John McCain of Arizona was presented to delegates at the Farewell Banquet of the National Notary Association's 2002 Conference in San Diego. One of the most respected members of the United States Congress, Senator McCain applauded Notaries for their dedicated efforts and high standards of honesty, impartiality, and integrity, and challenged them to put service to one's fellow citizens ahead of personal gain. To America's Notaries, Since September 11, we as a nation have had to face a grave and difficult reality that we are vulnerable to attack. Yet, through these troubled times have emerged great acts of heroism, uncompromising compassion, and extraordinary dedication to public duty that have reaffirmed my lifelong faith in the courage of the American people. As America's Notaries, you are on the front lines here at home in our continued battle for a safer nation. I applaud your dedicated efforts to maintain the highest standards of honesty, impartiality and integrity. Make these values your lifetime companions and you will be a credit not only to the office of Notary Public, but also to our great nation. In light of recent revelations of the nation's security measures and procedures prior to September 11, your vigilance has never been more important than now. Too often, government fails to account for its actions and learn from its mistakes. All public servants, including Notaries, must face the sobering truth that what we do, and don't do, can have effects that may not be realized until carelessness turns, too late, into regret. The defense of our nation is not only the responsibility of our armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and government officials. It is also the duty of each and every individual who chooses to call this great land home. And, as Notaries Public, you especially are charged with the task of protecting the public from those that would seek to defraud it. You are the shield behind which marches the enduring conviction of public service. Should we only concern ourselves with personal profit and leave to others the duty to the nation that protects them, whatever we gain for ourselves will be of little lasting value. It will build no monuments to virtue, claim no honored place in the memory of posterity, offer no worthy summons to others. Sacrifice for a cause greater than your self-interest, and you invest your life with the eminence of that cause, your self-respect assured. You may not be a soldier fighting hand-to-hand with an armed terrorist and you may not fly surveillance missions over enemy territory in the cover of night. But your tremendously important work and dedication will help ensure our nation's security and survival. I am privileged to have held a public trust since I graduated from the Naval Academy 44 years ago. I have never lived a single day, in good times and bad, that I wasn't grateful for the privilege. It is a blessing beyond exaggeration to serve this county and her causes. You too hold the public's trust, a privilege not to be treated lightly, but with the full realization of the honor bestowed upon you. Do not be overburdened by this daunting task. By attending this Conference you have shown a genuine desire to educate yourself so you may perform your duties to the best of your ability. And if, at times, the world seems indifferent to your efforts, remind yourself of the integral place you hold in society. Notaries like you face a wealth of choices every day and your good judgment will afford you the respect and gratitude of those you serve. I honor all of you who have devoted yourself to this noble office of Notary Public. Thank you and God bless America. |
