President Obama today delivered the commencement address at the Air Force Academy, telling the graduates that “we have labored under the dark cloud of war” but can now “see the light of a new day on the horizon.”
“Today, we can say with confidence and pride—the United States is stronger, safer and more respected in the world,” Obama said in his prepared remarks. “Because even as we’ve done the work of ending these wars, we’ve laid the foundation for a new era of American leadership. And now, cadets, we have to build on it. Let’s start by putting aside the tired notion that says our influence has waned, that America is in decline. We’ve heard that talk before.”
Obama said the United States’ strong alliances will lead to this being an “American Century.”
“I see an American Century because no other nation seeks the role that we play in global affairs, and no other nation can play the role that we play in global affairs,” the president said. “That includes shaping the global institutions of the 20th century to meet the challenges of the 21st. As President, I’ve made it clear that the United States does not fear the rise of peaceful, responsible emerging powers, we welcome them. Because when more nations step up and contribute to peace and security, that doesn’t undermine American power, it enhances it.”
