We have been constantly besought to engage in competitive armaments.  Frequent reports will reach us of the magnitude of the military equipment of other, nations.  We shall do well to be little impressed by such reports or such actions.  Any nation undertaking to maintain a military establishment with aggressive and imperialistic designs will find itself severely handicapped in the economic development of the world.  I believe thoroughly in the Army and Navy, in adequate defense and preparation.  But I am opposed to any policy of competition in building and maintaining land or sea armaments.

Our country has definitely relinquished the old standard of dealing with other countries by terror and force, and is definitely committed to the new standard of dealing with them through friendship and understanding.  This new policy should be constantly kept in mind by the guiding forces of the Army and Navy, by the.  Congress and by the country at large.  I believe it holds a promise of great benefit to humanity.  I shall resist any attempt to resort to the old methods and the old standards.  I am especially solicitous that foreign nations should comprehend the candor and sincerity with which we have adopted this position.  While we propose to maintain defensive and supplementary police forces by land and sea, and to train them through inspections and maneuvers upon appropriate occasions in order to maintain their efficiency, I wish every other nation to understand that this does not express any unfriendliness or convey any hostile intent.  I want the armed forces of America to be considered by all peoples not as enemies but as friends as the contribution which is made by this country for the maintenance of the peace and security of the world.

VETERANS

With the authorization for general hospitalization of the veterans of all wars provided during the present year, the care and treatment of those who have served their country in time of peril and the attitude of the Government toward them is not now so much one of needed legislation as one of careful, generous and humane administration.  It will ever be recognized that their welfare is of the first concern and always entitled to the most solicitous consideration oil the part of their fellow citizens.  They are organized in various associations, of which the chief and most representative is the American Legion.  Through its officers the Legion will present to the Congress numerous suggestions for legislation.  They cover such a wide variety of subjects that it is impossible to discuss them within the scope of this message.  With many of the proposals I join in hearty approval and commend them all to the sympathetic investigation and consideration of the Congress.

FOREIGN RELATIONS