our master of ceremonies a great american. [applause] good morning and thank you for joining us for such an amazing experience. this is your world war ii memorial. i m honored to be a master of ceremonies. i m trying to make sure the microphone is close enough. we salute those of the greatest generation who helped to preserve the freedom to run the globe. we offer a special salute to the men and women in the armed forces who continue to serve and sacrifice in our ongoing war right now of terrorism around the world. their service is deeply appreciated. [applause] all of his warriors and veterans past and present data debt and everlasting appreciation to our country. it is now my pleasure to introduce our official party for today s commemoration, our keynote speaker for today ceremony world war ii veteran colonel james rickey. yet army, retired. the superintendent of the .ational mall at moyle park the honorable paul the chairman of the board for the national world war ii