Ceremony for Freed American Hostages

Overview of White House South Lawn; red, white, and blue bunting decorated on outdoor stage; adult Caucasian male and female spectators standing on lawn; U.S. Army Band in the FG. Adult Caucasian male civilians and U.S. military personnel standing on stage, listening to U.S. President Ronald Reagan's remarks. Reagan: "Thank you. Thank you. Cardinal Cook, thank you for delivering this weather. I think we had been promised showers. We are most grateful. Welcome to the ambassadors of our friends and neighboring countries who are here today. And I can think of no better way to let you know how Nancy and I feel about your presence here today, then to say, on behalf of us, of the Vice President and Barbara, the Senators, the members of Congress, the members of the Cabinet, and all of our fellow citizens, these simple words: Welcome home. If you'll be seated please. You are home, and believe me, you are welcome. If my remarks were a sermon, my lines would be text from the hundred and twenty-sixth Psalms. 'We were like those who dream. Now our mouths are filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy. The Lord has done great things for us. We are glad.' You've come home to a people who, for 444 days, suffered the pain of your imprisonment, prayed for your safety, and most importantly, share your determination that the spirit of free men and women is not a fit subject for barter. You've represented, under great stress, the highest traditions of public service. Your conduct is symbolic of the millions of diplomats, military personnel, and others who have rendered service to their country. We're now aware of the conditions under which you were imprisoned. Though now is not the time to review every abhorrent detail of your cruel confinement, believe me, we know what happened. Truth may be a rare commodity today in Iran. It's alive and well in America." Adult Caucasian female Navy sailor listening. Adult Caucasian male American hostages seated on stage, applaud.