Ambassador Perry's Speeches

Bradley Orphanage (18 Dec 08)

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, thank you for welcoming us here today.  As many of you know, the US Frigate Robert G. Bradley arrived at the here in Freetown two days ago, and the ship's crew members have been working hard to help the children at this center to improve their living conditions.  Some of you may not know, however, the story of how the Bradley got its name.

Navy Lieutenant Robert Graham Bradley served on board the USS Princeton in the Pacific Theatre during World War II.  When the Princeton was attacked, Lieutenant Bradley led the effort to control the fires until intense heat forced him to fall back.  After ensuring that no wounded men had been left behind, Bradley followed his men into the water and was picked up by another ship.

A few hours later, Bradley rejoined the Princeton and the efforts to save her, but the flames touched off a mass explosion of ammunition, killing Bradley and his men instantly.  For his efforts, Bradley was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for valor.

This kind of outstanding fortitude, valor, and self-sacrifice in pursuit of a greater good is what drives so many Americans, and we are proud to share that ideal with the people of Sierra Leone.  Today, the Bradley's crew demonstrated their sense of self sacrifice for a greater good by coming here.  They've spent time and energy working to make this home a more nurturing environment for Sierra Leone's children.

Children are the lifeblood of a nation, and without an education, without access to health care, without a safe environment, and without people who care for their wellbeing, children do not fulfill their potential.  All children deserve to have these basic needs met, and we hope that our sailors have made a lasting contribution in your lives.

The spirit of volunteerism -- working without pay for a common good -- is a core American value.  Americans give of their time and money on a scale that is unlike anywhere else in the world.  That spirit is one of the things that pulled our country through its challenges, and keeps us united as a nation.

With the effort our sailors have made today for these children, they in turn will be equipped and empowered to build Sierra Leone with their own hands, and, hopefully, inspired to help the less fortunate in their communities. 

Thank you.