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Highlights
& Quotes
After series of high-profile clashes with Donald Rumsfeld and Paul Wolfowitz over Iraq planning and army modernization issues, White resigned from his post as army secretary in early 2003. During his tenure, White was also hounded by allegations regarding his role in the Enron debacle. But despite being questioned by Congress, White was never charged.
Since leaving the administration, White has continued his criticism of Defense Department decision-making vis-à-vis Iraq, arguing in a 2003 book entitled Reconstructing Eden (which White coauthored with three economic specialists), "It is quite clear in the immediate aftermath of hostilities that the plan for winning the peace is totally inadequate. Clearly the view that the war to 'liberate' Iraq would instantly produce a pro-United States citizenry ready for economic ad political rebirth ignored harsh realities on the ground." (3)
An excerpt from White's speech at the 2001 Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs Jackson Award ceremony:
"Before I begin, I want you to know that I am truly grateful and very humble to receive this prestigious award, especially when I see the long list of previous notable recipients. Great people. Great Americans.
"I would also like to thank each of you for your interest in keeping America strong and for your efforts in strengthening the bonds of cooperation with our allies. As you all know, JINSA sponsors a wide range of very important programs dedicated to this end including a study trip to Israel for in depth discussions with senior Israeli officials.
"My wife, Susan, and I were fortunate enough to travel to Israel as part of a JINSA organized trip in 1997 and many of the folks that when with us on that trip are here this evening. It's great to see them again. During that time we formed friendships, professional relationships that remain strong even today.
"I would be remiss tonight if I did not acknowledge the late Senator Scoop Jackson, a man with the grace of courtier, the subtlety of a cardinal, the finesse of a diplomat, a man who had a ruthless staff, as has been pointed out, and the gentle wisdom of Mr. Rogers.
"JINSA was organized in part to perpetuate his legacy and we can feel his spirit here tonight. Senator Jackson inspired Americans with his dedication to a strong U.S. defense posture and his abiding interest in helping oppressed peoples. A natural derivative of a strong U.S. defense posture is the residual benefit to our allies and our friends.
"It's a great comfort to our allies around the world to know that if the U.S. cannot be intimidated, their security is all the more assured. While it's true that Israel's security is included amongst our allies, other countries also benefit from our strength. In fact, I have yet to hear of an ally who applauded a reduction in U.S. defense spending.
"Most Americans look upon the defense of our nation as a nonpartisan issue and it is absolutely true in the case with our Congress and our leaders today. Surely this echoes the wisdom of great leaders of the past such as Senator Jackson.
"But now more than ever the security and stability of the world is a direct function of a strong United States. We know that our enemies will attack if they perceive our weakness, physical or moral. If we lack this will, it's irrelevant if we have the means.
"Today we have the will and the means to protect ourselves and our allies and our friends. That will is being tested and we are not the only target. In unity there is strength, perhaps the greatest source of strength.
"It's not just the United States and Israel that are being tested or measured by how we respond to terrorism. Our NATO allies are united where the memory of totalitarian regimes still lingers.
"As we move into the uncertain future, let us agree on one principle. No nation should suffer attack or indignity because they are our friends. No American should ever question the ability or willingness of the United States to defend itself.
"Our strongest weapon is a concerned citizenry. Thank you, Senator Jackson, for bestowing upon us that enduring legacy. America and Israel have always been drawn together by common threats to our well being. But on September 11th America emerged from what Toynbee called "the mirage of immortality." We are now at war and we all ought to underline that thought.
"We are now at war and our success will depend in no small measure on the allies who stand with us and with whom we stand. By the strength of our common endeavor will be achieve more together than we can alone.
"With one clear voice unanimously we need to say we will not give in to terrorism period. Whatever the dangers of the actions we take, the dangers of inaction are far, far greater.
"Surrounded by our friends of every faith we know that this is not a clash of civilizations. It's a conflict between murderers and humanity. Our adversaries describe themselves as people who look forward to death. As Americans we look forward to life.
"That statement seems to sum up the difference and outlook between ourselves, to highlight the moral difference between us, and to demonstrate exactly why we must and we shall win. Trials await us, adversity doubtlessly will come at some points in this long war.
"We will be called upon to exercise patients and fortitude pending the dawn of a brighter day. Those brighter days will come. Through the gloom we see opportunities to make the world better for future generations.
"As we go forward we must seize those opportunities, strong in will, unyielding in spirit, decisive in action, and certain of victory. This is our sacred duty, our inescapable destiny.
"May God bless JINSA and the United States of America. Thank you very much."
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