June 4, 2018
Sala Protomoteca
Rome, City Hall
(As prepared for delivery)
Dear members of the Committee of Honor and of the Jury, authorities, ladies and gentlemen.
I would like to thank the Deputy Mayor of Rome, Mr. Luca Bergamo, for the recognition that this splendid city has bestowed upon me.
I am proud and humbled that the city of Rome honors me today as a worthy representative of those brave soldiers who liberated the city from Nazi terror 74 years ago.
June 4, 1944, is a day that remains indelibly and joyfully etched into this city’s long and storied history. It is a day that lives on in the personal stories of thousands of Italian and American families. That day, and this award, underscore the enduring ties and the enduring friendship between Italy and the United States.
I’m honored to accept this award on behalf of all of the American people. Thank you.
