We must stand by all our democratic allies.  And we must not break faith with those who are risking their lives—­on every continent, from Afghanistan to Nicaragua—­to defy Soviet-supported aggression and secure rights which have been ours from birth.

The Sandinista dictatorship of Nicaragua, with full Cuban-Soviet bloc support, not only persecutes its people, the church, and denies a free press, but arms and provides bases for Communist terrorists attacking neighboring states.  Support for freedom fighters is self-defense and totally consistent with the Oas and U.N.  Charters.  It is essential that the Congress continue all facets of our assistance to Central America.  I want to work with you to support the democratic forces whose struggle is tied to our own security.

And tonight, I’ve spoken of great plans and great dreams.  They’re dreams we can make come true.  Two hundred years of American history should have taught us that nothing is impossible.

Ten years ago a young girl left Vietnam with her family, part of the exodus that followed the fall of Saigon.  They came to the United States with no possessions and not knowing a word of English.  Ten years ago—­the young girl studied hard, learned English, and finished high school in the top of her class.  And this May, May 22d to be exact, is a big date on her calendar.  Just 10 years from the time she left Vietnam, she will graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point.  I thought you might like to meet an American hero named Jean Nguyen.

Now, there’s someone else here tonight, born 79 years ago.  She lives in the inner city, where she cares for infants born of mothers who are heroin addicts.  The children, born in withdrawal, are sometimes even dropped on her doorstep.  She helps them with love.  Go to her house some night, and maybe you’ll see her silhouette against the window as she walks the floor talking softly, soothing a child in her arms—­Mother Hale of Harlem, and she, too, is an American hero.

Jean, Mother Hale, your lives tell us that the oldest American saying is new again:  Anything is possible in America if we have the faith, the will, and the heart.  History is asking us once again to be a force for good in the world.  Let us begin in unity, with justice, and love.

Thank you, and God bless you.

Note:  The President spoke at 9:05 p.m. in the House Chamber of the Capitol.  He was introduced by Thomas P. O’Neill, Jr., Speaker of the House of Representatives.  The address was broadcast live on nationwide radio and television.

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State of the Union Address
Ronald Reagan
February 4, 1986

Mr. Speaker, Mr. President, distinguished Members of the Congress, honored guests, and fellow citizens: 

Thank you for allowing me to delay my address until this evening.  We paused together to mourn and honor the valor of our seven Challenger heroes.  And I hope that we are now ready to do what they would want us to do:  Go forward, America, and reach for the stars.  We will never forget those brave seven, but we shall go forward.