GRAND OPENING MILITARY ADVANCED TRAINING CENTER Grand Opening Ceremony for the Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Event begins with music, and 101st Airborne Division's Parachute Demonstration Team jumping on to the parade field Speakers: Secretary of VA, Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice chief of Staff Gen. Richard Cody Grand Opening Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed, Speakers: Secretary of the Veteran Administration Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody (AUDIO CH1 slight hiss & 2 good audio) 13:43:31 General Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army swearing in 19 soldiers for reenlistment 13:43:39 101st air force division jumpers B-Roll 13:44:08 Four "screaming eagles" from the 101st airborne parachute their way to Walter Reed. One of the jumpers is himself an amputee who received care at Walter Reed. 13:45:42 MS walking shot of Paul Wolfowitz sitting down 13:47:02 all speakers walk in MS pull out to WS 13:47:44 MS of Schoomaker 13:49:26 WS crowd Major General Eric Schoomaker, commanding general WRAMC 13:52:24 thanks 13:53:06 it is a very important event team for the walter reed team and family, and by the academic gowns, all of whom are determined to caring for 13:53:37 far more accomplished speakers will tell you how we came to this important moment, what it means to the army, the nation. 13:53:59 you will be given the opportunity to tour the facility. 13:54:11 civilians who have lost function, a limb an eye hearing, balance or orientation, but have never lost their warrior spirit. 13:54:43 We are pledged to do all we can to help them realize that ambition. 13:54:55 I want to extend my personal thanks, in making this center a reality, who inspire us with their dedication and spirit 13:55:41 Retired General Frederick Franks. 13:56:58 walk up 13:57:02 thanks. Wounded warriors and families, fellow members of your amputee board 13:58:28 congratulations for the entire team. The spot light today shines on our men and women of our military. 13:59:02 who epitomized those words not for themselves but for our country, fierce determination and commitment to our country 13:59:35 I am inspired to be with them and their families. The army allowed me to command that squadron and in all duties beyond, I am deeply grateful that I was permitted to remain on active duty, and renew my great appreciation to our nation. 14:00:34 our advisory board want to say thanks to many. What stands between life and death begins with that medic; they are the first of many to reach out to help us up again. 14:01:27 physical and occupational theory, for skill and compassion, for healing body and soul, for being their to listen. To be at the leading edge, to help our warriors 14:02:08 Our wounded warriors inspire us what is important is not getting knocked down but getting up. 14:02:45 the sports clinics, and who are there in those lonely hours, the members of congress, senior civilian and military leadership, battle field General Cody. 14:09:04 thank you to everyone who has been involved in the creation of this center. Investment of sweat and tears. 14:09:51we need to be damn proud of them 14:10:03 This day "marks an evolution in how we treat and honor those who serve our nation." 14:10:21 I look at the military advanced training center, back in their communities, men and women of such courage. 14:11:00 Men and women of such experience and dedication, they encourage all selflessness. 14:11:29 whose only request to me was let me stay in I have so much more to give. 14:13:11our army and this nation are better because of you, they are the reality of your boots on the ground. 14:13:30 god bless each and everyone of you Rep. Jack Murtha (D-PA). 14:13:58 walk up 14:14:03 how proud I am to be here and how pleased I am in this facility. This guy for 28 million dollars did a hell of a job. There are not many projects that come in under cost and on time. 14:14:59 I said how would you like to go to the last ball game this season. This guys name is Stuck, Stuck had lost his leg. 14:16:45 my great grandmother lived to be 96. 14:16:58"You wounded warriors who are here have made a difference." Jim Nicholson, secretary for veteran's affairs 14:18:32 walk up 14:18:56 I wish that every American was here. This brings together heroism. The global war on terror lead by Bush and so bravely fought by America's finest young men and women, in the form of loss of limbs and TBI 14:19:41 the flame and shrapnel can forever change the life of a man or woman, or that they must settle for less, or that they must shelve their personal dream, the lives of our soldiers wounded in the defense of freedom will have a new hope / reality 14:20:29 that of staying on active duty. Maj Mosel lost part of his right leg. After completing months and months of rehabilitation. The first American solider ever to do so, on a prosthetic leg, he continues to lead by example, and reclaim and active life style. 14:21:36 they refer to him as the iron man, the man who sang the national anthem, he has run the hurtles in near record time, had an amputation and is a leader in the US Olympic unit. 14:22:16 Today all volunteers are passionate about the service, my wife and I come to walter reed regularly, sir help me get back to my unit. 14:22:55 about their satisfaction and about what they are doing, and to protect America. They received here at WR. 14:23:15 I visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and their moral was uniformly high bc they believe in what they are doing, and if something does happen to them they will be taken care of by their country and the world class facilities, and that is where this new center comes in as a new addition. 14:24:02 this new magnificent adjunct INSIDE: 14:30:22** Army Sgt. 1st Class Jacque (sic.) Keeslar with his wife and VIP's surrounding him cuts ceremonial red ribbon. Keeslar is a double leg amputee wounded by an IED in Iraq. 14:33:35 ** Tour of facility for VIP'S. Most notably gen schoomaker

GRAND OPENING MILITARY ADVANCED TRAINING CENTER Grand Opening Ceremony for the Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Event begins with music, and 101st Airborne Division's Parachute Demonstration Team jumping on to the parade field Speakers: Secretary of VA, Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice chief of Staff Gen. Richard Cody Grand Opening Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed, Speakers: Secretary of the Veteran Administration Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody (AUDIO CH1 slight hiss & 2 good audio) 13:43:31 General Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army swearing in 19 soldiers for reenlistment 13:43:39 101st air force division jumpers B-Roll 13:44:08 Four "screaming eagles" from the 101st airborne parachute their way to Walter Reed. One of the jumpers is himself an amputee who received care at Walter Reed. 13:45:42 MS walking shot of Paul Wolfowitz sitting down 13:47:02 all speakers walk in MS pull out to WS 13:47:44 MS of Schoomaker 13:49:26 WS crowd Major General Eric Schoomaker, commanding general WRAMC 13:52:24 thanks 13:53:06 it is a very important event team for the walter reed team and family, and by the academic gowns, all of whom are determined to caring for 13:53:37 far more accomplished speakers will tell you how we came to this important moment, what it means to the army, the nation. 13:53:59 you will be given the opportunity to tour the facility. 13:54:11 civilians who have lost function, a limb an eye hearing, balance or orientation, but have never lost their warrior spirit. 13:54:43 We are pledged to do all we can to help them realize that ambition. 13:54:55 I want to extend my personal thanks, in making this center a reality, who inspire us with their dedication and spirit 13:55:41 Retired General Frederick Franks. 13:56:58 walk up 13:57:02 thanks. Wounded warriors and families, fellow members of your amputee board 13:58:28 congratulations for the entire team. The spot light today shines on our men and women of our military. 13:59:02 who epitomized those words not for themselves but for our country, fierce determination and commitment to our country 13:59:35 I am inspired to be with them and their families. The army allowed me to command that squadron and in all duties beyond, I am deeply grateful that I was permitted to remain on active duty, and renew my great appreciation to our nation. 14:00:34 our advisory board want to say thanks to many. What stands between life and death begins with that medic; they are the first of many to reach out to help us up again. 14:01:27 physical and occupational theory, for skill and compassion, for healing body and soul, for being their to listen. To be at the leading edge, to help our warriors 14:02:08 Our wounded warriors inspire us what is important is not getting knocked down but getting up. 14:02:45 the sports clinics, and who are there in those lonely hours, the members of congress, senior civilian and military leadership, battle field General Cody. 14:09:04 thank you to everyone who has been involved in the creation of this center. Investment of sweat and tears. 14:09:51we need to be damn proud of them 14:10:03 This day "marks an evolution in how we treat and honor those who serve our nation." 14:10:21 I look at the military advanced training center, back in their communities, men and women of such courage. 14:11:00 Men and women of such experience and dedication, they encourage all selflessness. 14:11:29 whose only request to me was let me stay in I have so much more to give. 14:13:11our army and this nation are better because of you, they are the reality of your boots on the ground. 14:13:30 god bless each and everyone of you Rep. Jack Murtha (D-PA). 14:13:58 walk up 14:14:03 how proud I am to be here and how pleased I am in this facility. This guy for 28 million dollars did a hell of a job. There are not many projects that come in under cost and on time. 14:14:59 I said how would you like to go to the last ball game this season. This guys name is Stuck, Stuck had lost his leg. 14:16:45 my great grandmother lived to be 96. 14:16:58"You wounded warriors who are here have made a difference." Jim Nicholson, secretary for veteran's affairs 14:18:32 walk up 14:18:56 I wish that every American was here. This brings together heroism. The global war on terror lead by Bush and so bravely fought by America's finest young men and women, in the form of loss of limbs and TBI 14:19:41 the flame and shrapnel can forever change the life of a man or woman, or that they must settle for less, or that they must shelve their personal dream, the lives of our soldiers wounded in the defense of freedom will have a new hope / reality 14:20:29 that of staying on active duty. Maj Mosel lost part of his right leg. After completing months and months of rehabilitation. The first American solider ever to do so, on a prosthetic leg, he continues to lead by example, and reclaim and active life style. 14:21:36 they refer to him as the iron man, the man who sang the national anthem, he has run the hurtles in near record time, had an amputation and is a leader in the US Olympic unit. 14:22:16 Today all volunteers are passionate about the service, my wife and I come to walter reed regularly, sir help me get back to my unit. 14:22:55 about their satisfaction and about what they are doing, and to protect America. They received here at WR. 14:23:15 I visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and their moral was uniformly high bc they believe in what they are doing, and if something does happen to them they will be taken care of by their country and the world class facilities, and that is where this new center comes in as a new addition. 14:24:02 this new magnificent adjunct INSIDE: 14:30:22** Army Sgt. 1st Class Jacque (sic.) Keeslar with his wife and VIP's surrounding him cuts ceremonial red ribbon. Keeslar is a double leg amputee wounded by an IED in Iraq. 14:33:35 ** Tour of facility for VIP'S. Most notably gen schoomaker

GRAND OPENING MILITARY ADVANCED TRAINING CENTER Grand Opening Ceremony for the Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Event begins with music, and 101st Airborne Division's Parachute Demonstration Team jumping on to the parade field Speakers: Secretary of VA, Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice chief of Staff Gen. Richard Cody Grand Opening Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed, Speakers: Secretary of the Veteran Administration Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody (AUDIO CH1 slight hiss & 2 good audio) 13:43:31 General Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army swearing in 19 soldiers for reenlistment 13:43:39 101st air force division jumpers B-Roll 13:44:08 Four "screaming eagles" from the 101st airborne parachute their way to Walter Reed. One of the jumpers is himself an amputee who received care at Walter Reed. 13:45:42 MS walking shot of Paul Wolfowitz sitting down 13:47:02 all speakers walk in MS pull out to WS 13:47:44 MS of Schoomaker 13:49:26 WS crowd Major General Eric Schoomaker, commanding general WRAMC 13:52:24 thanks 13:53:06 it is a very important event team for the walter reed team and family, and by the academic gowns, all of whom are determined to caring for 13:53:37 far more accomplished speakers will tell you how we came to this important moment, what it means to the army, the nation. 13:53:59 you will be given the opportunity to tour the facility. 13:54:11 civilians who have lost function, a limb an eye hearing, balance or orientation, but have never lost their warrior spirit. 13:54:43 We are pledged to do all we can to help them realize that ambition. 13:54:55 I want to extend my personal thanks, in making this center a reality, who inspire us with their dedication and spirit 13:55:41 Retired General Frederick Franks. 13:56:58 walk up 13:57:02 thanks. Wounded warriors and families, fellow members of your amputee board 13:58:28 congratulations for the entire team. The spot light today shines on our men and women of our military. 13:59:02 who epitomized those words not for themselves but for our country, fierce determination and commitment to our country 13:59:35 I am inspired to be with them and their families. The army allowed me to command that squadron and in all duties beyond, I am deeply grateful that I was permitted to remain on active duty, and renew my great appreciation to our nation. 14:00:34 our advisory board want to say thanks to many. What stands between life and death begins with that medic; they are the first of many to reach out to help us up again. 14:01:27 physical and occupational theory, for skill and compassion, for healing body and soul, for being their to listen. To be at the leading edge, to help our warriors 14:02:08 Our wounded warriors inspire us what is important is not getting knocked down but getting up. 14:02:45 the sports clinics, and who are there in those lonely hours, the members of congress, senior civilian and military leadership, battle field General Cody. 14:09:04 thank you to everyone who has been involved in the creation of this center. Investment of sweat and tears. 14:09:51we need to be damn proud of them 14:10:03 This day "marks an evolution in how we treat and honor those who serve our nation." 14:10:21 I look at the military advanced training center, back in their communities, men and women of such courage. 14:11:00 Men and women of such experience and dedication, they encourage all selflessness. 14:11:29 whose only request to me was let me stay in I have so much more to give. 14:13:11our army and this nation are better because of you, they are the reality of your boots on the ground. 14:13:30 god bless each and everyone of you Rep. Jack Murtha (D-PA). 14:13:58 walk up 14:14:03 how proud I am to be here and how pleased I am in this facility. This guy for 28 million dollars did a hell of a job. There are not many projects that come in under cost and on time. 14:14:59 I said how would you like to go to the last ball game this season. This guys name is Stuck, Stuck had lost his leg. 14:16:45 my great grandmother lived to be 96. 14:16:58"You wounded warriors who are here have made a difference." Jim Nicholson, secretary for veteran's affairs 14:18:32 walk up 14:18:56 I wish that every American was here. This brings together heroism. The global war on terror lead by Bush and so bravely fought by America's finest young men and women, in the form of loss of limbs and TBI 14:19:41 the flame and shrapnel can forever change the life of a man or woman, or that they must settle for less, or that they must shelve their personal dream, the lives of our soldiers wounded in the defense of freedom will have a new hope / reality 14:20:29 that of staying on active duty. Maj Mosel lost part of his right leg. After completing months and months of rehabilitation. The first American solider ever to do so, on a prosthetic leg, he continues to lead by example, and reclaim and active life style. 14:21:36 they refer to him as the iron man, the man who sang the national anthem, he has run the hurtles in near record time, had an amputation and is a leader in the US Olympic unit. 14:22:16 Today all volunteers are passionate about the service, my wife and I come to walter reed regularly, sir help me get back to my unit. 14:22:55 about their satisfaction and about what they are doing, and to protect America. They received here at WR. 14:23:15 I visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and their moral was uniformly high bc they believe in what they are doing, and if something does happen to them they will be taken care of by their country and the world class facilities, and that is where this new center comes in as a new addition. 14:24:02 this new magnificent adjunct INSIDE: 14:30:22** Army Sgt. 1st Class Jacque (sic.) Keeslar with his wife and VIP's surrounding him cuts ceremonial red ribbon. Keeslar is a double leg amputee wounded by an IED in Iraq. 14:33:35 ** Tour of facility for VIP'S. Most notably gen schoomaker

GRAND OPENING MILITARY ADVANCED TRAINING CENTER Grand Opening Ceremony for the Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Event begins with music, and 101st Airborne Division's Parachute Demonstration Team jumping on to the parade field Speakers: Secretary of VA, Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice chief of Staff Gen. Richard Cody Grand Opening Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed, Speakers: Secretary of the Veteran Administration Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody (AUDIO CH1 slight hiss & 2 good audio) 13:43:31 General Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army swearing in 19 soldiers for reenlistment 13:43:39 101st air force division jumpers B-Roll 13:44:08 Four "screaming eagles" from the 101st airborne parachute their way to Walter Reed. One of the jumpers is himself an amputee who received care at Walter Reed. 13:45:42 MS walking shot of Paul Wolfowitz sitting down 13:47:02 all speakers walk in MS pull out to WS 13:47:44 MS of Schoomaker 13:49:26 WS crowd Major General Eric Schoomaker, commanding general WRAMC 13:52:24 thanks 13:53:06 it is a very important event team for the walter reed team and family, and by the academic gowns, all of whom are determined to caring for 13:53:37 far more accomplished speakers will tell you how we came to this important moment, what it means to the army, the nation. 13:53:59 you will be given the opportunity to tour the facility. 13:54:11 civilians who have lost function, a limb an eye hearing, balance or orientation, but have never lost their warrior spirit. 13:54:43 We are pledged to do all we can to help them realize that ambition. 13:54:55 I want to extend my personal thanks, in making this center a reality, who inspire us with their dedication and spirit 13:55:41 Retired General Frederick Franks. 13:56:58 walk up 13:57:02 thanks. Wounded warriors and families, fellow members of your amputee board 13:58:28 congratulations for the entire team. The spot light today shines on our men and women of our military. 13:59:02 who epitomized those words not for themselves but for our country, fierce determination and commitment to our country 13:59:35 I am inspired to be with them and their families. The army allowed me to command that squadron and in all duties beyond, I am deeply grateful that I was permitted to remain on active duty, and renew my great appreciation to our nation. 14:00:34 our advisory board want to say thanks to many. What stands between life and death begins with that medic; they are the first of many to reach out to help us up again. 14:01:27 physical and occupational theory, for skill and compassion, for healing body and soul, for being their to listen. To be at the leading edge, to help our warriors 14:02:08 Our wounded warriors inspire us what is important is not getting knocked down but getting up. 14:02:45 the sports clinics, and who are there in those lonely hours, the members of congress, senior civilian and military leadership, battle field General Cody. 14:09:04 thank you to everyone who has been involved in the creation of this center. Investment of sweat and tears. 14:09:51we need to be damn proud of them 14:10:03 This day "marks an evolution in how we treat and honor those who serve our nation." 14:10:21 I look at the military advanced training center, back in their communities, men and women of such courage. 14:11:00 Men and women of such experience and dedication, they encourage all selflessness. 14:11:29 whose only request to me was let me stay in I have so much more to give. 14:13:11our army and this nation are better because of you, they are the reality of your boots on the ground. 14:13:30 god bless each and everyone of you Rep. Jack Murtha (D-PA). 14:13:58 walk up 14:14:03 how proud I am to be here and how pleased I am in this facility. This guy for 28 million dollars did a hell of a job. There are not many projects that come in under cost and on time. 14:14:59 I said how would you like to go to the last ball game this season. This guys name is Stuck, Stuck had lost his leg. 14:16:45 my great grandmother lived to be 96. 14:16:58"You wounded warriors who are here have made a difference." Jim Nicholson, secretary for veteran's affairs 14:18:32 walk up 14:18:56 I wish that every American was here. This brings together heroism. The global war on terror lead by Bush and so bravely fought by America's finest young men and women, in the form of loss of limbs and TBI 14:19:41 the flame and shrapnel can forever change the life of a man or woman, or that they must settle for less, or that they must shelve their personal dream, the lives of our soldiers wounded in the defense of freedom will have a new hope / reality 14:20:29 that of staying on active duty. Maj Mosel lost part of his right leg. After completing months and months of rehabilitation. The first American solider ever to do so, on a prosthetic leg, he continues to lead by example, and reclaim and active life style. 14:21:36 they refer to him as the iron man, the man who sang the national anthem, he has run the hurtles in near record time, had an amputation and is a leader in the US Olympic unit. 14:22:16 Today all volunteers are passionate about the service, my wife and I come to walter reed regularly, sir help me get back to my unit. 14:22:55 about their satisfaction and about what they are doing, and to protect America. They received here at WR. 14:23:15 I visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and their moral was uniformly high bc they believe in what they are doing, and if something does happen to them they will be taken care of by their country and the world class facilities, and that is where this new center comes in as a new addition. 14:24:02 this new magnificent adjunct INSIDE: 14:30:22** Army Sgt. 1st Class Jacque (sic.) Keeslar with his wife and VIP's surrounding him cuts ceremonial red ribbon. Keeslar is a double leg amputee wounded by an IED in Iraq. 14:33:35 ** Tour of facility for VIP'S. Most notably gen schoomaker

GRAND OPENING MILITARY ADVANCED TRAINING CENTER Grand Opening Ceremony for the Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Event begins with music, and 101st Airborne Division's Parachute Demonstration Team jumping on to the parade field Speakers: Secretary of VA, Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice chief of Staff Gen. Richard Cody Grand Opening Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed, Speakers: Secretary of the Veteran Administration Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody (AUDIO CH1 slight hiss & 2 good audio) 13:43:31 General Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army swearing in 19 soldiers for reenlistment 13:43:39 101st air force division jumpers B-Roll 13:44:08 Four "screaming eagles" from the 101st airborne parachute their way to Walter Reed. One of the jumpers is himself an amputee who received care at Walter Reed. 13:45:42 MS walking shot of Paul Wolfowitz sitting down 13:47:02 all speakers walk in MS pull out to WS 13:47:44 MS of Schoomaker 13:49:26 WS crowd Major General Eric Schoomaker, commanding general WRAMC 13:52:24 thanks 13:53:06 it is a very important event team for the walter reed team and family, and by the academic gowns, all of whom are determined to caring for 13:53:37 far more accomplished speakers will tell you how we came to this important moment, what it means to the army, the nation. 13:53:59 you will be given the opportunity to tour the facility. 13:54:11 civilians who have lost function, a limb an eye hearing, balance or orientation, but have never lost their warrior spirit. 13:54:43 We are pledged to do all we can to help them realize that ambition. 13:54:55 I want to extend my personal thanks, in making this center a reality, who inspire us with their dedication and spirit 13:55:41 Retired General Frederick Franks. 13:56:58 walk up 13:57:02 thanks. Wounded warriors and families, fellow members of your amputee board 13:58:28 congratulations for the entire team. The spot light today shines on our men and women of our military. 13:59:02 who epitomized those words not for themselves but for our country, fierce determination and commitment to our country 13:59:35 I am inspired to be with them and their families. The army allowed me to command that squadron and in all duties beyond, I am deeply grateful that I was permitted to remain on active duty, and renew my great appreciation to our nation. 14:00:34 our advisory board want to say thanks to many. What stands between life and death begins with that medic; they are the first of many to reach out to help us up again. 14:01:27 physical and occupational theory, for skill and compassion, for healing body and soul, for being their to listen. To be at the leading edge, to help our warriors 14:02:08 Our wounded warriors inspire us what is important is not getting knocked down but getting up. 14:02:45 the sports clinics, and who are there in those lonely hours, the members of congress, senior civilian and military leadership, battle field General Cody. 14:09:04 thank you to everyone who has been involved in the creation of this center. Investment of sweat and tears. 14:09:51we need to be damn proud of them 14:10:03 This day "marks an evolution in how we treat and honor those who serve our nation." 14:10:21 I look at the military advanced training center, back in their communities, men and women of such courage. 14:11:00 Men and women of such experience and dedication, they encourage all selflessness. 14:11:29 whose only request to me was let me stay in I have so much more to give. 14:13:11our army and this nation are better because of you, they are the reality of your boots on the ground. 14:13:30 god bless each and everyone of you Rep. Jack Murtha (D-PA). 14:13:58 walk up 14:14:03 how proud I am to be here and how pleased I am in this facility. This guy for 28 million dollars did a hell of a job. There are not many projects that come in under cost and on time. 14:14:59 I said how would you like to go to the last ball game this season. This guys name is Stuck, Stuck had lost his leg. 14:16:45 my great grandmother lived to be 96. 14:16:58"You wounded warriors who are here have made a difference." Jim Nicholson, secretary for veteran's affairs 14:18:32 walk up 14:18:56 I wish that every American was here. This brings together heroism. The global war on terror lead by Bush and so bravely fought by America's finest young men and women, in the form of loss of limbs and TBI 14:19:41 the flame and shrapnel can forever change the life of a man or woman, or that they must settle for less, or that they must shelve their personal dream, the lives of our soldiers wounded in the defense of freedom will have a new hope / reality 14:20:29 that of staying on active duty. Maj Mosel lost part of his right leg. After completing months and months of rehabilitation. The first American solider ever to do so, on a prosthetic leg, he continues to lead by example, and reclaim and active life style. 14:21:36 they refer to him as the iron man, the man who sang the national anthem, he has run the hurtles in near record time, had an amputation and is a leader in the US Olympic unit. 14:22:16 Today all volunteers are passionate about the service, my wife and I come to walter reed regularly, sir help me get back to my unit. 14:22:55 about their satisfaction and about what they are doing, and to protect America. They received here at WR. 14:23:15 I visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and their moral was uniformly high bc they believe in what they are doing, and if something does happen to them they will be taken care of by their country and the world class facilities, and that is where this new center comes in as a new addition. 14:24:02 this new magnificent adjunct INSIDE: 14:30:22** Army Sgt. 1st Class Jacque (sic.) Keeslar with his wife and VIP's surrounding him cuts ceremonial red ribbon. Keeslar is a double leg amputee wounded by an IED in Iraq. 14:33:35 ** Tour of facility for VIP'S. Most notably gen schoomaker

GRAND OPENING MILITARY ADVANCED TRAINING CENTER Grand Opening Ceremony for the Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Event begins with music, and 101st Airborne Division's Parachute Demonstration Team jumping on to the parade field Speakers: Secretary of VA, Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice chief of Staff Gen. Richard Cody Grand Opening Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed, Speakers: Secretary of the Veteran Administration Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody (AUDIO CH1 slight hiss & 2 good audio) 13:43:31 General Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army swearing in 19 soldiers for reenlistment 13:43:39 101st air force division jumpers B-Roll 13:44:08 Four "screaming eagles" from the 101st airborne parachute their way to Walter Reed. One of the jumpers is himself an amputee who received care at Walter Reed. 13:45:42 MS walking shot of Paul Wolfowitz sitting down 13:47:02 all speakers walk in MS pull out to WS 13:47:44 MS of Schoomaker 13:49:26 WS crowd Major General Eric Schoomaker, commanding general WRAMC 13:52:24 thanks 13:53:06 it is a very important event team for the walter reed team and family, and by the academic gowns, all of whom are determined to caring for 13:53:37 far more accomplished speakers will tell you how we came to this important moment, what it means to the army, the nation. 13:53:59 you will be given the opportunity to tour the facility. 13:54:11 civilians who have lost function, a limb an eye hearing, balance or orientation, but have never lost their warrior spirit. 13:54:43 We are pledged to do all we can to help them realize that ambition. 13:54:55 I want to extend my personal thanks, in making this center a reality, who inspire us with their dedication and spirit 13:55:41 Retired General Frederick Franks. 13:56:58 walk up 13:57:02 thanks. Wounded warriors and families, fellow members of your amputee board 13:58:28 congratulations for the entire team. The spot light today shines on our men and women of our military. 13:59:02 who epitomized those words not for themselves but for our country, fierce determination and commitment to our country 13:59:35 I am inspired to be with them and their families. The army allowed me to command that squadron and in all duties beyond, I am deeply grateful that I was permitted to remain on active duty, and renew my great appreciation to our nation. 14:00:34 our advisory board want to say thanks to many. What stands between life and death begins with that medic; they are the first of many to reach out to help us up again. 14:01:27 physical and occupational theory, for skill and compassion, for healing body and soul, for being their to listen. To be at the leading edge, to help our warriors 14:02:08 Our wounded warriors inspire us what is important is not getting knocked down but getting up. 14:02:45 the sports clinics, and who are there in those lonely hours, the members of congress, senior civilian and military leadership, battle field General Cody. 14:09:04 thank you to everyone who has been involved in the creation of this center. Investment of sweat and tears. 14:09:51we need to be damn proud of them 14:10:03 This day "marks an evolution in how we treat and honor those who serve our nation." 14:10:21 I look at the military advanced training center, back in their communities, men and women of such courage. 14:11:00 Men and women of such experience and dedication, they encourage all selflessness. 14:11:29 whose only request to me was let me stay in I have so much more to give. 14:13:11our army and this nation are better because of you, they are the reality of your boots on the ground. 14:13:30 god bless each and everyone of you Rep. Jack Murtha (D-PA). 14:13:58 walk up 14:14:03 how proud I am to be here and how pleased I am in this facility. This guy for 28 million dollars did a hell of a job. There are not many projects that come in under cost and on time. 14:14:59 I said how would you like to go to the last ball game this season. This guys name is Stuck, Stuck had lost his leg. 14:16:45 my great grandmother lived to be 96. 14:16:58"You wounded warriors who are here have made a difference." Jim Nicholson, secretary for veteran's affairs 14:18:32 walk up 14:18:56 I wish that every American was here. This brings together heroism. The global war on terror lead by Bush and so bravely fought by America's finest young men and women, in the form of loss of limbs and TBI 14:19:41 the flame and shrapnel can forever change the life of a man or woman, or that they must settle for less, or that they must shelve their personal dream, the lives of our soldiers wounded in the defense of freedom will have a new hope / reality 14:20:29 that of staying on active duty. Maj Mosel lost part of his right leg. After completing months and months of rehabilitation. The first American solider ever to do so, on a prosthetic leg, he continues to lead by example, and reclaim and active life style. 14:21:36 they refer to him as the iron man, the man who sang the national anthem, he has run the hurtles in near record time, had an amputation and is a leader in the US Olympic unit. 14:22:16 Today all volunteers are passionate about the service, my wife and I come to walter reed regularly, sir help me get back to my unit. 14:22:55 about their satisfaction and about what they are doing, and to protect America. They received here at WR. 14:23:15 I visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and their moral was uniformly high bc they believe in what they are doing, and if something does happen to them they will be taken care of by their country and the world class facilities, and that is where this new center comes in as a new addition. 14:24:02 this new magnificent adjunct INSIDE: 14:30:22** Army Sgt. 1st Class Jacque (sic.) Keeslar with his wife and VIP's surrounding him cuts ceremonial red ribbon. Keeslar is a double leg amputee wounded by an IED in Iraq. 14:33:35 ** Tour of facility for VIP'S. Most notably gen schoomaker

GRAND OPENING MILITARY ADVANCED TRAINING CENTER Grand Opening Ceremony for the Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Event begins with music, and 101st Airborne Division's Parachute Demonstration Team jumping on to the parade field Speakers: Secretary of VA, Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice chief of Staff Gen. Richard Cody Grand Opening Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed, Speakers: Secretary of the Veteran Administration Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody (AUDIO CH1 slight hiss & 2 good audio) 13:43:31 General Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army swearing in 19 soldiers for reenlistment 13:43:39 101st air force division jumpers B-Roll 13:44:08 Four "screaming eagles" from the 101st airborne parachute their way to Walter Reed. One of the jumpers is himself an amputee who received care at Walter Reed. 13:45:42 MS walking shot of Paul Wolfowitz sitting down 13:47:02 all speakers walk in MS pull out to WS 13:47:44 MS of Schoomaker 13:49:26 WS crowd Major General Eric Schoomaker, commanding general WRAMC 13:52:24 thanks 13:53:06 it is a very important event team for the walter reed team and family, and by the academic gowns, all of whom are determined to caring for 13:53:37 far more accomplished speakers will tell you how we came to this important moment, what it means to the army, the nation. 13:53:59 you will be given the opportunity to tour the facility. 13:54:11 civilians who have lost function, a limb an eye hearing, balance or orientation, but have never lost their warrior spirit. 13:54:43 We are pledged to do all we can to help them realize that ambition. 13:54:55 I want to extend my personal thanks, in making this center a reality, who inspire us with their dedication and spirit 13:55:41 Retired General Frederick Franks. 13:56:58 walk up 13:57:02 thanks. Wounded warriors and families, fellow members of your amputee board 13:58:28 congratulations for the entire team. The spot light today shines on our men and women of our military. 13:59:02 who epitomized those words not for themselves but for our country, fierce determination and commitment to our country 13:59:35 I am inspired to be with them and their families. The army allowed me to command that squadron and in all duties beyond, I am deeply grateful that I was permitted to remain on active duty, and renew my great appreciation to our nation. 14:00:34 our advisory board want to say thanks to many. What stands between life and death begins with that medic; they are the first of many to reach out to help us up again. 14:01:27 physical and occupational theory, for skill and compassion, for healing body and soul, for being their to listen. To be at the leading edge, to help our warriors 14:02:08 Our wounded warriors inspire us what is important is not getting knocked down but getting up. 14:02:45 the sports clinics, and who are there in those lonely hours, the members of congress, senior civilian and military leadership, battle field General Cody. 14:09:04 thank you to everyone who has been involved in the creation of this center. Investment of sweat and tears. 14:09:51we need to be damn proud of them 14:10:03 This day "marks an evolution in how we treat and honor those who serve our nation." 14:10:21 I look at the military advanced training center, back in their communities, men and women of such courage. 14:11:00 Men and women of such experience and dedication, they encourage all selflessness. 14:11:29 whose only request to me was let me stay in I have so much more to give. 14:13:11our army and this nation are better because of you, they are the reality of your boots on the ground. 14:13:30 god bless each and everyone of you Rep. Jack Murtha (D-PA). 14:13:58 walk up 14:14:03 how proud I am to be here and how pleased I am in this facility. This guy for 28 million dollars did a hell of a job. There are not many projects that come in under cost and on time. 14:14:59 I said how would you like to go to the last ball game this season. This guys name is Stuck, Stuck had lost his leg. 14:16:45 my great grandmother lived to be 96. 14:16:58"You wounded warriors who are here have made a difference." Jim Nicholson, secretary for veteran's affairs 14:18:32 walk up 14:18:56 I wish that every American was here. This brings together heroism. The global war on terror lead by Bush and so bravely fought by America's finest young men and women, in the form of loss of limbs and TBI 14:19:41 the flame and shrapnel can forever change the life of a man or woman, or that they must settle for less, or that they must shelve their personal dream, the lives of our soldiers wounded in the defense of freedom will have a new hope / reality 14:20:29 that of staying on active duty. Maj Mosel lost part of his right leg. After completing months and months of rehabilitation. The first American solider ever to do so, on a prosthetic leg, he continues to lead by example, and reclaim and active life style. 14:21:36 they refer to him as the iron man, the man who sang the national anthem, he has run the hurtles in near record time, had an amputation and is a leader in the US Olympic unit. 14:22:16 Today all volunteers are passionate about the service, my wife and I come to walter reed regularly, sir help me get back to my unit. 14:22:55 about their satisfaction and about what they are doing, and to protect America. They received here at WR. 14:23:15 I visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and their moral was uniformly high bc they believe in what they are doing, and if something does happen to them they will be taken care of by their country and the world class facilities, and that is where this new center comes in as a new addition. 14:24:02 this new magnificent adjunct INSIDE: 14:30:22** Army Sgt. 1st Class Jacque (sic.) Keeslar with his wife and VIP's surrounding him cuts ceremonial red ribbon. Keeslar is a double leg amputee wounded by an IED in Iraq. 14:33:35 ** Tour of facility for VIP'S. Most notably gen schoomaker

GRAND OPENING MILITARY ADVANCED TRAINING CENTER Grand Opening Ceremony for the Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Event begins with music, and 101st Airborne Division's Parachute Demonstration Team jumping on to the parade field Speakers: Secretary of VA, Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice chief of Staff Gen. Richard Cody Grand Opening Military Advanced Training Center at Walter Reed, Speakers: Secretary of the Veteran Administration Jim Nicholson, Representative John Murtha, Army Vice Chief of Staff General Richard Cody (AUDIO CH1 slight hiss & 2 good audio) 13:43:31 General Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army swearing in 19 soldiers for reenlistment 13:43:39 101st air force division jumpers B-Roll 13:44:08 Four "screaming eagles" from the 101st airborne parachute their way to Walter Reed. One of the jumpers is himself an amputee who received care at Walter Reed. 13:45:42 MS walking shot of Paul Wolfowitz sitting down 13:47:02 all speakers walk in MS pull out to WS 13:47:44 MS of Schoomaker 13:49:26 WS crowd Major General Eric Schoomaker, commanding general WRAMC 13:52:24 thanks 13:53:06 it is a very important event team for the walter reed team and family, and by the academic gowns, all of whom are determined to caring for 13:53:37 far more accomplished speakers will tell you how we came to this important moment, what it means to the army, the nation. 13:53:59 you will be given the opportunity to tour the facility. 13:54:11 civilians who have lost function, a limb an eye hearing, balance or orientation, but have never lost their warrior spirit. 13:54:43 We are pledged to do all we can to help them realize that ambition. 13:54:55 I want to extend my personal thanks, in making this center a reality, who inspire us with their dedication and spirit 13:55:41 Retired General Frederick Franks. 13:56:58 walk up 13:57:02 thanks. Wounded warriors and families, fellow members of your amputee board 13:58:28 congratulations for the entire team. The spot light today shines on our men and women of our military. 13:59:02 who epitomized those words not for themselves but for our country, fierce determination and commitment to our country 13:59:35 I am inspired to be with them and their families. The army allowed me to command that squadron and in all duties beyond, I am deeply grateful that I was permitted to remain on active duty, and renew my great appreciation to our nation. 14:00:34 our advisory board want to say thanks to many. What stands between life and death begins with that medic; they are the first of many to reach out to help us up again. 14:01:27 physical and occupational theory, for skill and compassion, for healing body and soul, for being their to listen. To be at the leading edge, to help our warriors 14:02:08 Our wounded warriors inspire us what is important is not getting knocked down but getting up. 14:02:45 the sports clinics, and who are there in those lonely hours, the members of congress, senior civilian and military leadership, battle field General Cody. 14:09:04 thank you to everyone who has been involved in the creation of this center. Investment of sweat and tears. 14:09:51we need to be damn proud of them 14:10:03 This day "marks an evolution in how we treat and honor those who serve our nation." 14:10:21 I look at the military advanced training center, back in their communities, men and women of such courage. 14:11:00 Men and women of such experience and dedication, they encourage all selflessness. 14:11:29 whose only request to me was let me stay in I have so much more to give. 14:13:11our army and this nation are better because of you, they are the reality of your boots on the ground. 14:13:30 god bless each and everyone of you Rep. Jack Murtha (D-PA). 14:13:58 walk up 14:14:03 how proud I am to be here and how pleased I am in this facility. This guy for 28 million dollars did a hell of a job. There are not many projects that come in under cost and on time. 14:14:59 I said how would you like to go to the last ball game this season. This guys name is Stuck, Stuck had lost his leg. 14:16:45 my great grandmother lived to be 96. 14:16:58"You wounded warriors who are here have made a difference." Jim Nicholson, secretary for veteran's affairs 14:18:32 walk up 14:18:56 I wish that every American was here. This brings together heroism. The global war on terror lead by Bush and so bravely fought by America's finest young men and women, in the form of loss of limbs and TBI 14:19:41 the flame and shrapnel can forever change the life of a man or woman, or that they must settle for less, or that they must shelve their personal dream, the lives of our soldiers wounded in the defense of freedom will have a new hope / reality 14:20:29 that of staying on active duty. Maj Mosel lost part of his right leg. After completing months and months of rehabilitation. The first American solider ever to do so, on a prosthetic leg, he continues to lead by example, and reclaim and active life style. 14:21:36 they refer to him as the iron man, the man who sang the national anthem, he has run the hurtles in near record time, had an amputation and is a leader in the US Olympic unit. 14:22:16 Today all volunteers are passionate about the service, my wife and I come to walter reed regularly, sir help me get back to my unit. 14:22:55 about their satisfaction and about what they are doing, and to protect America. They received here at WR. 14:23:15 I visited Iraq and Afghanistan, and their moral was uniformly high bc they believe in what they are doing, and if something does happen to them they will be taken care of by their country and the world class facilities, and that is where this new center comes in as a new addition. 14:24:02 this new magnificent adjunct INSIDE: 14:30:22** Army Sgt. 1st Class Jacque (sic.) Keeslar with his wife and VIP's surrounding him cuts ceremonial red ribbon. Keeslar is a double leg amputee wounded by an IED in Iraq. 14:33:35 ** Tour of facility for VIP'S. Most notably gen schoomaker

INT BROLL OBAMA MEDAL OF HONOR PRESENTATION / CUTS Thursday, June 19, 2014 President Obama Remarks at Medal of Honor Ceremony DC Slug: 1415 WH MEDAL OF HONOR STIX RS39 73 AR: 16x9 NYRS: WASH7 14:32:34 PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA: Thank you, everybody. Please be seated. On behalf of Michelle and myself, welcome to the White House. The man you see before you today, Corporal William "Kyle" Carpenter, should not be alive today. Hand grenades are one of the most awful weapons of war. They only weigh about a pound, but they're packed with TNT. If one lands nearby, you have mere seconds to seek cover. When it detonates, its fragments shoot out in every direction. Even at a distance, the spray of shrapnel can inflict devastating injuries on the human body. Up close, it's almost certain death. 14:33:30 But we are here because this man, this United States Marine, faced down that terrible explosive power, that unforgiving force, with his own body, willingly and deliberately, to protect a fellow Marine. When that grenade exploded, Kyle Carpenter's body took the brunt of the blast. His injuries were called catastrophic. It seemed as if he was going to die. 14:34:10 While being treated, he went into cardiac arrest, and three times he flatlined. Three times, doctors brought him back. Along with his parents, who call Kyle's survival "our miracle," we thank God they did, because with that singular act of courage, Kyle, you not only saved your brother in arms, you displayed a heroism in the blink of an eye that will inspire for generations, valor worthy of our nation's highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor. 14:34:49 Now, Kyle and I have actually met before. During his long recovery at Walter Reed, he and some of our other wounded warriors came to the White House to celebrate the World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals. Some of you may be aware I am a White Sox fan. (Laughter.) 14:35:09 Kyle likes the Braves. So it was a tough day for both of us. (Laughter.) 14:35:16 But after the ceremony, Michelle and I had the chance to meet Kyle, and at the time he was still undergoing surgeries. But he was up, and he was walking, and he was working his way toward being independent again, towards the man you see here today. And Kyle, the main message we want to send is welcome back. We are so proud to have you here. 14:35:41 We just spent some time not just with Kyle, but also with his wonderful family. And anybody who has had a chance to get to know this young man knows you're not going to get a better example of what you want in an American or a Marine. Despite all the attention, he's still the same humble guy from Gilbert, South Carolina, population of about 600. 14:36:10 I guess today it's only population 500-and-90-something. (Laughter.) These days, he's also at the University of South Carolina, just a normal college student he says, cheering for the Gamecocks. You'll notice that Kyle doesn't hide his scars. He's proud of them and the service that they represent. And now he tells me his and, you know, so I'm just quoting him. He says the girls definitely like them. (Laughter.) So he's -- he's kind of -- he's working an angle on this thing. (Laughter.) You know, I wasn't sure whether I was supposed to say that in front of mom -- (laughter) -- but there's a quote there. 14:36:58 In addition to our many distinguished guests, I want to welcome those who made this man the Marine that he is -- Kyle's father Jim, Kyle's lovely mom Robin, and his brothers Price and Peyton, one of whom is going to be joining Kyle at South Caroline, another Gamecock, and then we've got one who's going to be at the Citadel. 14:37:25 We also have Kyle's Marine brothers who served with him in Afghanistan and through his recovery. And I also want to welcome the members of the Metal of Honor Society, whose ranks Kyle joins today. Now, Kyle and his fellow Marines served during the surge of forces that I ordered to Afghanistan early in my presidency. Their mission was to drive the Taliban out of their strongholds, protect the Afghan people and give them a chance to reclaim their communities. Kyle and his platoon were in Helmand Province in Marja, pushing their way across open fields and muddy canals bearing their heavy packs, even as it could heat up to 115 degrees. 14:38:09 In one small village, they turned a dusty compound into their base. The insurgents nearby gave their answer with sniper fire and automatic weapon fire and rocket-propelled grenades. That morning, Kyle said, our alarm clock was AK-47 fire. Some of the men were by their bunks, gearing up for another day. Some were heating up their MREs. Some were in makeshift op centers, a simple mud building, planning the day's patrols. And up on the roof, behind a circle of sandbags, two Marines manned their posts, Kyle and Lance Corporal Nicholas Eufrazio. The compound started to take fire. Seeking cover, Kyle and Nick laid down low on their backs behind those sandbags. And then the grenade landed with a thud, its pin already pulled. It was about to explode. And Kyle has no memory of what happened next. What we do know is that there on that rooftop he wasn't just with a fellow Marine. He was with his best friend. Kyle and Nick had met in training. In Afghanistan they patrolled together, day and night, a friendship forged in fire. Kyle says about Nick, he was my point man, and I loved him like a brother. 14:39:38 When the grenade landed, other Marines in the compound looked up and saw it happen. Kyle tried to stand. He lunged forward toward that grenade, and then he disappeared into the blast. Keep in mind at the time Kyle was just 21 years old. But in that instant, he fulfilled those words of Scripture: Greater hath no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends. 14:40:27 They found Kyle lying face-down directly over the blast area. His helmet was riddled with holes. His gear was melted. Part of his Kevlar vest was blown away. One of the doctors who treated him later said Kyle was literally wounded from the top of his head to his feet. And for a moment, Kyle was still conscious. His eyes were open, but he couldn't see. Kyle remembers everything went white. And yet even then his thoughts were not of himself. One of the Marines who was there remembers how Kyle kept asking one question, and that was whether Nick was OK. And then as Kyle's strength drained away, he sensed the end was coming. So according to Kyle's memories, my last thought was to make peace with God. I asked for his forgiveness. I was trying to make the best and most of my last few seconds here on Earth. 14:41:12 The Medal of Honor is presented for gallantry on the battlefield, but today we also recognize Kyle Carpenter for his valor since, in the hard fight for recovery. Eventually, Kyle woke up, after five weeks in a coma. I want you to consider what Kyle has endured just to stand here today: more than 2 1/2 years in the hospital, grueling rehabilitation, brain surgery to remove shrapnel from his head, nearly 40 surgeries to repair a collapsed lung, fractured fingers, a shattered right arm broken in more than 30 places, multiple skin grafts. He has a new prosthetic eye, a new jaw, new teeth, and one hell of a smile. (Laughter.) 14:42:02 And Kyle's the first to give credit elsewhere. His doctors at Bethesda, he says, put me back together well. Today's also a reminder that in past wars somebody with injuries as severe as Kyle's probably wouldn't have survived. So many of our wounded warriors from today's wars are alive not just because of remarkable advances in technology, but primarily because of the extraordinary dedication and skill of our military and our VA medical professionals. So we need to keep doing everything we can in our power to give our wounded warriors and those who treat them the support that they need. And I think this is a wonderful opportunity to ask Doctors Debra Malone and Lauren Greer and the rest of Kyle's medical team who are here to please stand. I see their amazing work every time I visit Bethesda, every time I visited Walter Reed. It's pretty rare where you got a job where you just know you're doing God's work every single day. And they do an incredible job, so thank you. (Sustained applause.) 14:43:09 14:43:27 Thank you. Thank you for the miracles you work for our wounded troops and veterans. Now, Kyle says he'll wear this medal for all who serve and for those who didn't make it back and for those who struggle still. So today we also honor two members of his team who made the ultimate sacrifice in that deployment, Kyle's friends, Lance Corporal Timothy M. Jackson of Corbin, Kentucky and Lance Corporal Dakota R. Huse of Greenwood, Louisiana. And our thoughts are also with the Marine who Kyle saved that day, his brother Nick. I had the opportunity to meet Nick as well nearly two years after the blast on one of my visits to Walter Reed. Nick also suffered grievous wounds. As a result of traumatic brain injury, he couldn't speak for more than a year. He also endured multiple surgeries. Today his recovery continues. He lives at home with his family in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where he is watching this ceremony. 14:44:29 So Nick, on behalf of all of us, I want you to know we honor your sacrifice as well. Your perseverance is an inspiration. And just as Kyle was there for you, our nation will be there for you and your family as you grow stronger in the years ahead. If any of our wounded warriors seek an example -- let me amend that. If any American seeks a model of the strength and resilience that define us as a people, including this newest 9/11 generation, I want you to consider Kyle. After everything he's been through, he skis, he snowboards, he's jumped from a plane -- with a parachute, thankfully. (Laughter.) He trudged through a six-mile mud run, completed the Marine Corps Marathon, says he wants to do a triathlon. He's a motivational speaker, an advocate for his fellow wounded warriors. He's thinking about majoring in psychology so he can use his own experiences to help others. He got stellar grades. And by the way, he's only 24 years old and says, I'm just getting started. 14:45:49 In other words, Kyle is a shining example of what our nation needs to encourage, is veterans who come home and then use their incredible skills and talents to keep our country strong. And we can all learn from Kyle's example. 14:46:06 As we prepare for the reading of the citation, I'd like to close with his own words, a message, I think, for every American. "It took a life-changing event to get me to truly appreciate the precious and amazing life I have been blessed with. Please take it from me: Enjoy every day to the fullest, don't take life too seriously, always try to make it count, appreciate the small and simple things, be kind and help others, let the ones you love always know you love them, and when things get hard, trust there is a bigger plan and that you will be stronger for it." Pretty good message. 14:46:47 Corporal William "Kyle" Carpenter should not be alive today, but the fact that he is gives us reason to trust that there is indeed a bigger plan. God bless you, Kyle. God bless all who serve and protect the precious and amazing life that we are blessed with. May God continue to bless and keep strong the United States of America. Semper fi. (Cheers, applause.) (Break.) PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, that brings us to the conclusion of this ceremony, but not the reception and party. And so I want to thank everybody again for being here, especially Kyle's wonderful family and his parents. 14:51:02 And I understand that the food here at the White House is pretty good. (Laughter.) So I already told Kyle's brothers that they should be chowing down -- (laughter) -- but that goes for everybody else as well. And I think the drinks are free. I don't know what it -- (laughter) -- although it's still early in the afternoon. All right. Thank you very much, everybody. Let's big -- give one more round of applause to our latest Medal of Honor winner, Kyle Carpenter. (Applause.) Medal of Honor Ceremony for Kyle Carpenter President Obama awarded Marine Lance Corporal Kyle Carpenter with the Medal of Honor at a White House ceremony for his heroic actions during a November 2010 grenade attack in Afghanistan.

INT BROLL OBAMA MEDAL OF HONOR PRESENTATION / HEAD ON Thursday, June 19, 2014 President Obama Remarks at Medal of Honor Ceremony DC Slug: 1415 WH MEDAL OF HONOR STIX RS39 73 AR: 16x9 NYRS: WASH7 14:32:34 PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA: Thank you, everybody. Please be seated. On behalf of Michelle and myself, welcome to the White House. The man you see before you today, Corporal William "Kyle" Carpenter, should not be alive today. Hand grenades are one of the most awful weapons of war. They only weigh about a pound, but they're packed with TNT. If one lands nearby, you have mere seconds to seek cover. When it detonates, its fragments shoot out in every direction. Even at a distance, the spray of shrapnel can inflict devastating injuries on the human body. Up close, it's almost certain death. 14:33:30 But we are here because this man, this United States Marine, faced down that terrible explosive power, that unforgiving force, with his own body, willingly and deliberately, to protect a fellow Marine. When that grenade exploded, Kyle Carpenter's body took the brunt of the blast. His injuries were called catastrophic. It seemed as if he was going to die. 14:34:10 While being treated, he went into cardiac arrest, and three times he flatlined. Three times, doctors brought him back. Along with his parents, who call Kyle's survival "our miracle," we thank God they did, because with that singular act of courage, Kyle, you not only saved your brother in arms, you displayed a heroism in the blink of an eye that will inspire for generations, valor worthy of our nation's highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor. 14:34:49 Now, Kyle and I have actually met before. During his long recovery at Walter Reed, he and some of our other wounded warriors came to the White House to celebrate the World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals. Some of you may be aware I am a White Sox fan. (Laughter.) 14:35:09 Kyle likes the Braves. So it was a tough day for both of us. (Laughter.) 14:35:16 But after the ceremony, Michelle and I had the chance to meet Kyle, and at the time he was still undergoing surgeries. But he was up, and he was walking, and he was working his way toward being independent again, towards the man you see here today. And Kyle, the main message we want to send is welcome back. We are so proud to have you here. 14:35:41 We just spent some time not just with Kyle, but also with his wonderful family. And anybody who has had a chance to get to know this young man knows you're not going to get a better example of what you want in an American or a Marine. Despite all the attention, he's still the same humble guy from Gilbert, South Carolina, population of about 600. 14:36:10 I guess today it's only population 500-and-90-something. (Laughter.) These days, he's also at the University of South Carolina, just a normal college student he says, cheering for the Gamecocks. You'll notice that Kyle doesn't hide his scars. He's proud of them and the service that they represent. And now he tells me his and, you know, so I'm just quoting him. He says the girls definitely like them. (Laughter.) So he's -- he's kind of -- he's working an angle on this thing. (Laughter.) You know, I wasn't sure whether I was supposed to say that in front of mom -- (laughter) -- but there's a quote there. 14:36:58 In addition to our many distinguished guests, I want to welcome those who made this man the Marine that he is -- Kyle's father Jim, Kyle's lovely mom Robin, and his brothers Price and Peyton, one of whom is going to be joining Kyle at South Caroline, another Gamecock, and then we've got one who's going to be at the Citadel. 14:37:25 We also have Kyle's Marine brothers who served with him in Afghanistan and through his recovery. And I also want to welcome the members of the Metal of Honor Society, whose ranks Kyle joins today. Now, Kyle and his fellow Marines served during the surge of forces that I ordered to Afghanistan early in my presidency. Their mission was to drive the Taliban out of their strongholds, protect the Afghan people and give them a chance to reclaim their communities. Kyle and his platoon were in Helmand Province in Marja, pushing their way across open fields and muddy canals bearing their heavy packs, even as it could heat up to 115 degrees. 14:38:09 In one small village, they turned a dusty compound into their base. The insurgents nearby gave their answer with sniper fire and automatic weapon fire and rocket-propelled grenades. That morning, Kyle said, our alarm clock was AK-47 fire. Some of the men were by their bunks, gearing up for another day. Some were heating up their MREs. Some were in makeshift op centers, a simple mud building, planning the day's patrols. And up on the roof, behind a circle of sandbags, two Marines manned their posts, Kyle and Lance Corporal Nicholas Eufrazio. The compound started to take fire. Seeking cover, Kyle and Nick laid down low on their backs behind those sandbags. And then the grenade landed with a thud, its pin already pulled. It was about to explode. And Kyle has no memory of what happened next. What we do know is that there on that rooftop he wasn't just with a fellow Marine. He was with his best friend. Kyle and Nick had met in training. In Afghanistan they patrolled together, day and night, a friendship forged in fire. Kyle says about Nick, he was my point man, and I loved him like a brother. 14:39:38 When the grenade landed, other Marines in the compound looked up and saw it happen. Kyle tried to stand. He lunged forward toward that grenade, and then he disappeared into the blast. Keep in mind at the time Kyle was just 21 years old. But in that instant, he fulfilled those words of Scripture: Greater hath no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends. 14:40:27 They found Kyle lying face-down directly over the blast area. His helmet was riddled with holes. His gear was melted. Part of his Kevlar vest was blown away. One of the doctors who treated him later said Kyle was literally wounded from the top of his head to his feet. And for a moment, Kyle was still conscious. His eyes were open, but he couldn't see. Kyle remembers everything went white. And yet even then his thoughts were not of himself. One of the Marines who was there remembers how Kyle kept asking one question, and that was whether Nick was OK. And then as Kyle's strength drained away, he sensed the end was coming. So according to Kyle's memories, my last thought was to make peace with God. I asked for his forgiveness. I was trying to make the best and most of my last few seconds here on Earth. 14:41:12 The Medal of Honor is presented for gallantry on the battlefield, but today we also recognize Kyle Carpenter for his valor since, in the hard fight for recovery. Eventually, Kyle woke up, after five weeks in a coma. I want you to consider what Kyle has endured just to stand here today: more than 2 1/2 years in the hospital, grueling rehabilitation, brain surgery to remove shrapnel from his head, nearly 40 surgeries to repair a collapsed lung, fractured fingers, a shattered right arm broken in more than 30 places, multiple skin grafts. He has a new prosthetic eye, a new jaw, new teeth, and one hell of a smile. (Laughter.) 14:42:02 And Kyle's the first to give credit elsewhere. His doctors at Bethesda, he says, put me back together well. Today's also a reminder that in past wars somebody with injuries as severe as Kyle's probably wouldn't have survived. So many of our wounded warriors from today's wars are alive not just because of remarkable advances in technology, but primarily because of the extraordinary dedication and skill of our military and our VA medical professionals. So we need to keep doing everything we can in our power to give our wounded warriors and those who treat them the support that they need. And I think this is a wonderful opportunity to ask Doctors Debra Malone and Lauren Greer and the rest of Kyle's medical team who are here to please stand. I see their amazing work every time I visit Bethesda, every time I visited Walter Reed. It's pretty rare where you got a job where you just know you're doing God's work every single day. And they do an incredible job, so thank you. (Sustained applause.) 14:43:09 14:43:27 Thank you. Thank you for the miracles you work for our wounded troops and veterans. Now, Kyle says he'll wear this medal for all who serve and for those who didn't make it back and for those who struggle still. So today we also honor two members of his team who made the ultimate sacrifice in that deployment, Kyle's friends, Lance Corporal Timothy M. Jackson of Corbin, Kentucky and Lance Corporal Dakota R. Huse of Greenwood, Louisiana. And our thoughts are also with the Marine who Kyle saved that day, his brother Nick. I had the opportunity to meet Nick as well nearly two years after the blast on one of my visits to Walter Reed. Nick also suffered grievous wounds. As a result of traumatic brain injury, he couldn't speak for more than a year. He also endured multiple surgeries. Today his recovery continues. He lives at home with his family in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where he is watching this ceremony. 14:44:29 So Nick, on behalf of all of us, I want you to know we honor your sacrifice as well. Your perseverance is an inspiration. And just as Kyle was there for you, our nation will be there for you and your family as you grow stronger in the years ahead. If any of our wounded warriors seek an example -- let me amend that. If any American seeks a model of the strength and resilience that define us as a people, including this newest 9/11 generation, I want you to consider Kyle. After everything he's been through, he skis, he snowboards, he's jumped from a plane -- with a parachute, thankfully. (Laughter.) He trudged through a six-mile mud run, completed the Marine Corps Marathon, says he wants to do a triathlon. He's a motivational speaker, an advocate for his fellow wounded warriors. He's thinking about majoring in psychology so he can use his own experiences to help others. He got stellar grades. And by the way, he's only 24 years old and says, I'm just getting started. 14:45:49 In other words, Kyle is a shining example of what our nation needs to encourage, is veterans who come home and then use their incredible skills and talents to keep our country strong. And we can all learn from Kyle's example. 14:46:06 As we prepare for the reading of the citation, I'd like to close with his own words, a message, I think, for every American. "It took a life-changing event to get me to truly appreciate the precious and amazing life I have been blessed with. Please take it from me: Enjoy every day to the fullest, don't take life too seriously, always try to make it count, appreciate the small and simple things, be kind and help others, let the ones you love always know you love them, and when things get hard, trust there is a bigger plan and that you will be stronger for it." Pretty good message. 14:46:47 Corporal William "Kyle" Carpenter should not be alive today, but the fact that he is gives us reason to trust that there is indeed a bigger plan. God bless you, Kyle. God bless all who serve and protect the precious and amazing life that we are blessed with. May God continue to bless and keep strong the United States of America. Semper fi. (Cheers, applause.) (Break.) PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, that brings us to the conclusion of this ceremony, but not the reception and party. And so I want to thank everybody again for being here, especially Kyle's wonderful family and his parents. 14:51:02 And I understand that the food here at the White House is pretty good. (Laughter.) So I already told Kyle's brothers that they should be chowing down -- (laughter) -- but that goes for everybody else as well. And I think the drinks are free. I don't know what it -- (laughter) -- although it's still early in the afternoon. All right. Thank you very much, everybody. Let's big -- give one more round of applause to our latest Medal of Honor winner, Kyle Carpenter. (Applause.) Medal of Honor Ceremony for Kyle Carpenter President Obama awarded Marine Lance Corporal Kyle Carpenter with the Medal of Honor at a White House ceremony for his heroic actions during a November 2010 grenade attack in Afghanistan.

EXT BROLL PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA GRADUATION COMMENCEMENT REMARKS / HEAD ON Saturday, June 14, 2014 President Barack Obama attends University of California Irvine commencement / STIX DC Slug: 1345 WH UC IRVINE STIX RS33 73 AR: 16X9 Disc #221 & 553 NYRS: WASH3 (4523) 14:43:59 Janet Napolitano 14:45:27 Obama takes the stage to great cheers and applause 14:45:44 push in to ms Obama and Napolitano 15:01:56 cu Obama looking at program and applauding for student speaker 15:10:27 PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA: Thank you. (Applause.) Hello, Anteaters! (Applause.) That is something I never thought I'd say. (Laughter.) Please, please take a seat. To President Napolitano -- which is a nice step up from Secretary; to Fred Ruiz, Vice Chair of the University of California Regents; Chancellor Drake; Representatives Loretta Sanchez and Alan Lowenthal; to the trustees and faculty -- thank you for this honor. And congratulations to the Class of 2014! (Applause.) Now, let me begin my saying all of you had the inside track in getting me here -- because my personal assistant, Ferial, is a proud Anteater. (Applause.) Until today, I did not understand why she greets me every morning by shouting "Zot, Zot, Zot!" (Laughter.) It's been a little weird. But she explained it to me on the way here this morning, because she's very proud to see her brother, Sina, graduate today as well. (Applause.) So, graduates, obviously we're proud of you, but let's give it up for your proud family and friends and professors, because this is their day, too. (Applause. And even though he's on the road this weekend, I also want to thank Angels centerfielder Mike Trout for letting me cover his turf for a while. (Applause.) He actually signed a bat for me, which is part of my retirement plan. (Laughter.) I will be keeping that. And this is a very cool place to hold a commencement. I know that UC Irvine's baseball team opens College World Series play in Omaha right about now -- (applause) -- so let's get this speech underway. If the hot dog guy comes by, get me one. (Laughter.) 15:13:08 Now, in additional to Ferial, graduates, I'm here for a simple reason: You asked. For those who don't know, the UC Irvine community sent 10,000 postcards to the White House asking me to come speak today. (Applause.) Some tried to guilt me into coming. I got one that said, "I went to your first inauguration, can you please come to my graduation?" (Applause.) Some tried bribery: "I'll support the Chicago Bulls." Another said today would be your birthday -- so happy birthday, whoever you are. My personal favorite -- somebody wrote and said, "We are super underrated!" (Laughter.) I'm sure she was talking about this school. But keep in mind, you're not only the number-one university in America younger than 50 years old, you also hold the Guinness World Record for biggest water pistol fight. (Applause.) You're pretty excited about that. (Laughter.) 15:14:31 "We are super underrated." This young lady could have just as well been talking, though, about this generation. I think this generation of young people is super underrated. In your young lives, you've seen dizzying change, from terror attacks to economic turmoil; from Twitter to Tumblr. Some of your families have known tough times during the course of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. You're graduating into a still-healing job market, and some of you are carrying student loan debt that you're concerned about. And yet, your generation -- the most educated, the most diverse, the most tolerant, the most politically independent and the most digitally fluent in our history -- is also on record as being the most optimistic about our future. And I'm here to tell you that you are right to be optimistic. (Applause.) You are right to be optimistic. Consider this: Since the time most of you graduated from high school, fewer Americans are at war. More have health insurance. More are graduating from college. Our businesses have added more than 9 million new jobs. The number of states where you're free to marry who you love has more than doubled. (Applause.) And that's just some of the progress that you've seen while you've been studying here at UC Irvine. But we do face real challenges: Rebuilding the middle class and reversing inequality's rise. Reining in college costs. Protecting voting rights. Welcoming the immigrants and young dreamers who keep this country vibrant. Stemming the tide of violence that guns inflict on our schools. We've got some big challenges. And if you're fed a steady diet of cynicism that says nobody is trustworthy and nothing works, and there's no way we can actually address these problems, then the temptation is too just go it alone, to look after yourself and not participate in the larger project of achieving our best vision of America. And I'm here to tell you, don't believe the cynicism. Guard against it. Don't buy into it. Today, I want to use one case study to show you that progress is possible and perseverance is critical. I want to show you how badly we need you -- both your individual voices and your collective efforts -- to give you the chance you seek to change the world, and maybe even save it. I'm going to talk about one of the most significant long-term challenges that our country and our planet faces: the growing threat of a rapidly changing climate. Now, this isn't a policy speech. I understand it's a commencement, and I already delivered a long climate address last summer. I remember because it was 95 degrees and my staff had me do it outside, and I was pouring with sweat -- as a visual aid. (Laughter.) And since this is a very educated group, you already know the science. Burning fossil fuels release carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide traps heat. Levels of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere are higher than they've been in 800,000 years. We know the trends. The 18 warmest years on record have all happened since you graduates were born. We know what we see with our own eyes. Out West, firefighters brave longer, harsher wildfire seasons; states have to budget for that. Mountain towns worry about what smaller snow packs mean for tourism. Farmers and families at the bottom worry about what it will mean for their water. In cities like Norfolk and Miami, streets now flood frequently at high tide. Shrinking icecaps have National Geographic making the biggest change in its atlas since the Soviet Union broke apart. So the question is not whether we need to act. The overwhelming judgment of science, accumulated and measured and reviewed over decades, has put that question to rest. The question is whether we have the will to act before it's too late. For if we fail to protect the world we leave not just to my children, but to your children and your children's children, we will fail one of our primary reasons for being on this world in the first place. And that is to leave the world a little bit better for the next generation. 15:19:42 Now, the good news is you already know all this. UC Irvine set up the first Earth System Science Department in America. (Applause.) A UC Irvine professor-student team won the Nobel Prize for discovering that CFCs destroy the ozone layer. (Applause.) A UC Irvine glaciologist's work led to one of last month's report showing one of the world's major ice sheets in irreversible retreat. Students and professors are in the field working to predict changing weather patterns, fire seasons, and water tables -- working to understand how shifting seasons affect global ecosystems; to get zero- emission vehicles on the road faster; to help coastal communities adapt to rising seas. And when I challenge colleges to reduce their energy use to 20 percent by 2020, UC Irvine went ahead and did it last year. Done. (Applause.) So UC Irvine is ahead of the curve. All of you are ahead of the curve. Your generation reminds me of something President Wilson once said. He said, "Sometimes people call me an idealist. Well, that is the way I know I am an American." That's who we are. And if you need a reason to be optimistic about our future, then look around this stadium. Because today, in America, the largest single age group is 22 years ago. And you are going to do great things. And I want you to know that I've got your back -- because one of the reasons I ran for this office was because I believed our dangerous addiction to foreign oil left our economy at risk and our planet in peril. So when I took office, we set out to use more clean energy and less dirty energy, and waste less energy overall. And since then, we've doubled the distance our cars will go on a gallon of gas by the middle of the next decade. We've tripled the electricity we harness from the wind, generating enough last year to power every home in California. We've multiplied the electricity we generate from the sun 10 times over. And this state, California, is so far ahead of the rest of the country in solar, that earlier this year solar power met 18 percent of your total power demand one day. (Applause.) 15:22:25 The bottom line is, America produces more renewable energy than ever, more natural gas than anyone. And for the first time in nearly two decades, we produce more oil here at home than we buy from other countries. And these advances have created jobs and grown our economy, and helped cut our carbon pollution to levels not seen in about 20 years. Since 2006, no country on Earth has reduced its total carbon pollution by as much as the United States of America. (Applause.) So that's all reason for optimism. Here's the challenge: We've got to do more. What we're doing is not enough. And that's why, a couple weeks ago, America proposed new standards to limit the amount of harmful carbon pollution that power plants can dump into the air. And we also have to realize, as hundreds of scientists declared last month, that climate change is no longer a distant threat, but "has moved firmly into the present." That's a quote. In some parts of the country, weather-related disasters like droughts, and fires, and storms, and floods are going to get harsher and they're going to get costlier. And that's why, today, I'm announcing a new $1 billion competitive fund to help communities prepare for the impacts of climate change and build more resilient infrastructure across the country. (Applause.) So it's a big problem. But progress, no matter how big the problem, is possible. That's important to remember. Because no matter what you do in life, you're going to run up against big problems -- in your own personal life and in your communities and in your country. There's going to be a stubborn status quo, and there are going to be people determined to stymie your efforts to bring about change. There are going to be people who say you can't do something. There are going to be people who say you shouldn't bother. I've got some experience in this myself. (Laughter.) Now, part of what's unique about climate change, though, is the nature of some of the opposition to action. It's pretty rare that you'll encounter somebody who says the problem you're trying to solve simply doesn't exist. When President Kennedy set us on a course for the moon, there were a number of people who made a serious case that it wouldn't be worth it; it was going to be too expensive, it was going to be too hard, it would take too long. But nobody ignored the science. I don't remember anybody saying that the moon wasn't there or that it was made of cheese. (Laughter.) And today's Congress, though, is full of folks who stubbornly and automatically reject the scientific evidence about climate change. They will tell you it is a hoax, or a fad. One member of Congress actually says the world is cooling. There was one member of Congress who mentioned a theory involving "dinosaur flatulence" -- which I won't get into. (Laughter.) Now, their view may be wrong -- and a fairly serious threat to everybody's future -- but at least they have the brass to say what they actually think. There are some who also duck the question. They say -- when they're asked about climate change, they say, "Hey, look, I'm not a scientist." And I'll translate that for you. What that really means is, "I know that manmade climate change really is happening, but if I admit it, I'll be run out of town by a radical fringe that thinks climate science is a liberal plot, so I'm not going to admit it." (Applause.) Now, I'm not a scientist either, but we've got some really good ones at NASA. I do know that the overwhelming majority of scientists who work on climate change, including some who once disputed the data, have put that debate to rest. The writer, Thomas Friedman, recently put it to me this way. He were talking, and he says, "Your kid is sick, you consult 100 doctors; 97 of them tell you to do this, three tell [you] to do that, and you want to go with the three?" The fact is, this should not be a partisan issue. After all, it was Republicans who used to lead the way on new ideas to protect our environment. It was Teddy Roosevelt who first pushed for our magnificent national parks. It was Richard Nixon who signed the Clean Air Act and opened the EPA. George H.W. Bush -- a wonderful man who at 90 just jumped out of a plane in a parachute -- (laughter) -- said that "human activities are changing the atmosphere in unexpected and unprecedented ways." John McCain and other Republicans publicly supported free market-based cap-and-trade bills to slow carbon pollution just a few years ago -- before the Tea Party decided it was a massive threat to freedom and liberty. These days, unfortunately, nothing is happening. Even minor energy efficiency bills are killed on the Senate floor. And the reason is because people are thinking about politics instead of thinking about what's good for the next generation. What's the point of public office if you're not going to use your power to help solve problems? (Applause.) And part of the challenge is that the media doesn't spend a lot of time covering climate change and letting average Americans know how it could impact our future. Now, the broadcast networks' nightly newscasts spend just a few minutes a month covering climate issues. On cable, the debate is usually between political pundits, not scientists. When we introduced those new anti-pollution standards a couple weeks ago, the instant reaction from the Washington's political press wasn't about what it would mean for our planet; it was what would it mean for an election six months from now. And that kind of misses the point. Of course, they're not scientists, either. And I want to tell you all this not to discourage you. I'm telling you all this because I want to light a fire under you. As the generation getting shortchanged by inaction on this issue, I want all of you to understand you cannot accept that this is the way it has to be. The climate change deniers suggest there's still a debate over the science. There is not. The talking heads on cable news suggest public opinion is hopelessly deadlocked. It is not. Seven in ten Americans say global warming is a serious problem. Seven in ten say the federal government should limit pollution from our power plants. And of all the issues in a recent poll asking Americans where we think we can make a difference, protecting the environment came out on top. (Applause.) So we've got public opinion potentially on our side. We can do this. We can make a difference. You can make a difference. And the sooner you do, the better -- not just for our climate, but for our economy. There's a reason that more than 700 businesses like Apple and Microsoft, and GM and Nike, Intel, Starbucks have declared that "tackling climate change is one of America's greatest economic opportunities in the 21st century." The country that seizes this opportunity first will lead the way. A low-carbon, clean energy economy can be an engine for growth and jobs for decades to come, and I want America to build that engine. Because if we do, others will follow. I want those jobs; I want those opportunities; I want those businesses right here in the United States of America. (Applause.) 15:30:44 Developing countries are using more and more energy, and tens of millions of people are entering the global middle class, and they want to buy cars and refrigerators. So if we don't deal with this problem soon, we're going to be overwhelmed. These nations have some of the fastest-rising levels of carbon pollution. They're going to have to take action to meet this challenge. They're more vulnerable to the effects of climate change than we are. They've got even more to lose. But they're waiting to see what does America do. That's what the world does. It waits to watch us act. And when we do, they move. And I'm convinced that on this issue, when America proves what's possible, then they're going to join us. And America cannot meet this threat alone. Of course, the world cannot meet it without America. This is a fight that America must lead. So I'm going to keep doing my part for as long as I hold this office and as long as I'm a citizen once out of office. But we're going to need you, the next generation, to finish the job. We need scientists to design new fuels. We need farmers to help grow them. We need engineers to invent new technologies. We need entrepreneurs to sell those technologies. (Applause.) We need workers to operate assembly lines that hum with high-tech, zero-carbon components. We need builders to hammer into place the foundations for a clean energy age. We need diplomats and businessmen and women, and Peace Corps volunteers to help developing nations skip past the dirty phase of development and transition to sustainable sources of energy. In other words, we need you. (Applause.) We need you. And if you believe, like I do, that something has to be done on this, then you're going to have to speak out. You're going to have to learn more about these issues. Even if you're not like Jessica and an expert, you're going to have to work on this. You're going to have to push those of us in power to do what this American moment demands. You've got to educate your classmates, and colleagues, and family members and fellow citizens, and tell them what's at stake. You've got to push back against the misinformation, and speak out for facts, and organize others around your vision for the future. You need to invest in what helps, and divest from what harms. And you've got to remind everyone who represents you, at every level of government, that doing something about climate change is a prerequisite for your vote. It's no accident that when President Kennedy needed to convince the nation that sending Americans into space was a worthy goal, he went to a university. That's where he started. Because a challenge as big as that, as costly as that, as difficult as that, requires a spirit of youth. It requires a spirit of adventure; a willingness to take risks. It requires optimism. It requires hope. That day, a man told us we'd go to the moon within a decade. And despite all the naysayers, somehow we knew as a nation that we'd build a spaceship and we'd meet that goal. That's because we're Americans -- and that's what we do. Even when our political system is consumed by small things, we are a people called to do big things. And progress on climate change is a big thing. Progress won't always be flashy; it will be measured in disasters averted, and lives saved, and a planet preserved -- and days just like this one, 20 years from now, and 50 years from now, and 100 years from now. But can you imagine a more worthy goal -- a more worthy legacy -- than protecting the world we leave to our children? 15:34:40 So I ask your generation to help leave us that legacy. I ask you to believe in yourselves and in one another, and above all, when life gets you down or somebody tells you you can't do something, to believe in something better. There are people here who know what it means to dream. When Mohamad Abedi was a boy, the suffering he saw in refugee camps in Lebanon didn't drive him into despair -- it inspired him to become a doctor. And when he came to America, he discovered a passion for engineering. So here, at UC Irvine, he became a biomedical engineer to study the human brain. (Applause.) And Mohamad said, "Had I never come to the United States, I would have never had the ability to do the work that I'm doing." He's now going to CalTech to keep doing that work. Cinthia Flores is the daughter of a single mom who worked as a seamstress and a housekeeper. (Applause.) The first in her family to graduate from high school. The first in her family to graduate from college. And in college, she says, "I learned about myself that I was good at advocating for others, and that I was argumentative -- so maybe I should go to law school." And, today, Cinthia is now the first in her family to graduate from law school. And she plans to advocate for the rights of workers like her mom. (Applause.) She says, "I have the great privilege and opportunity to answer the call of my community." "The bottom line," she says, "is being of service." On 9/11, Aaron Anderson was a sophomore in college. Several months later, he was in training for Army Special Forces. He fought in Afghanistan, and on February 28th, 2006, he was nearly killed by an IED. He endured dozens of surgeries to save his legs, months of recovery at Walter Reed. When he couldn't physically return to active duty, he devoted his time to his brothers in arms, starting two businesses with fellow veterans, and a foundation to help fellow wounded Green Beret soldiers. And then he went back to school. And last December, he graduated summa cum laude from UC Irvine. And Aaron is here today, along with four soon-to-be commissioned ROTC cadets, and 65 other graduating veterans. And I would ask them to stand and be recognized for their service. (Applause.) The point is, you know how to dream. And you know how to work for your dreams. And, yes, sometimes you may be "super underrated." But usually it's the underrated, the underdogs, the dreamers, the idealists, the fighters, the argumentative -- those are the folks who do the biggest things. And this generation -- this 9/11 generation of soldiers; this new generation of scientists and advocates and entrepreneurs and altruists -- you're the antidote to cynicism. It doesn't mean you're not going to get down sometimes. You will. You'll know disillusionment. You'll experience doubt. People will disappoint you by their actions. But that can't discourage you. Cynicism has never won a war, or cured a disease, or started a business, or fed a young mind, or sent men into space. Cynicism is a choice. Hope is a better choice. (Applause.) Hope is what gave young soldiers the courage to storm a beach and liberate people they never met. Hope is what gave young students the strength to sit in and stand up and march for women's rights, and civil rights, and voting rights, and gay rights, and immigration rights. Hope is the belief, against all evidence to the contrary, that there are better days ahead, and that together we can build up a middle class, and reshape our immigration system, and shield our children from gun violence, and shelter future generations from the ravages of climate change. Hope is the fact that, today, the single largest age group in America is 22 years old who are all just itching to reshape this country and reshape the world. And I cannot wait to see what you do tomorrow. Congratulations. (Applause.) Thank you, Class of 2014. God bless you. God bless the United States of America. (Applause.) 15:40:00 Obama departs the podium 15:40:30 Obama does the Anteater Zot cheer

EXT BROLL PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA GRADUATION COMMENCEMENT REMARKS / LIVE CUTS ANGLE Saturday, June 14, 2014 President Barack Obama attends University of California Irvine commencement / STIX DC Slug: 1345 WH UC IRVINE STIX RS33 73 AR: 16X9 Disc #221 & 553 NYRS: WASH3 (4523) 14:43:59 Janet Napolitano 14:45:27 Obama takes the stage to great cheers and applause 14:45:44 push in to ms Obama and Napolitano 15:01:56 cu Obama looking at program and applauding for student speaker 15:10:27 PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA: Thank you. (Applause.) Hello, Anteaters! (Applause.) That is something I never thought I'd say. (Laughter.) Please, please take a seat. To President Napolitano -- which is a nice step up from Secretary; to Fred Ruiz, Vice Chair of the University of California Regents; Chancellor Drake; Representatives Loretta Sanchez and Alan Lowenthal; to the trustees and faculty -- thank you for this honor. And congratulations to the Class of 2014! (Applause.) Now, let me begin my saying all of you had the inside track in getting me here -- because my personal assistant, Ferial, is a proud Anteater. (Applause.) Until today, I did not understand why she greets me every morning by shouting "Zot, Zot, Zot!" (Laughter.) It's been a little weird. But she explained it to me on the way here this morning, because she's very proud to see her brother, Sina, graduate today as well. (Applause.) So, graduates, obviously we're proud of you, but let's give it up for your proud family and friends and professors, because this is their day, too. (Applause. And even though he's on the road this weekend, I also want to thank Angels centerfielder Mike Trout for letting me cover his turf for a while. (Applause.) He actually signed a bat for me, which is part of my retirement plan. (Laughter.) I will be keeping that. And this is a very cool place to hold a commencement. I know that UC Irvine's baseball team opens College World Series play in Omaha right about now -- (applause) -- so let's get this speech underway. If the hot dog guy comes by, get me one. (Laughter.) 15:13:08 Now, in additional to Ferial, graduates, I'm here for a simple reason: You asked. For those who don't know, the UC Irvine community sent 10,000 postcards to the White House asking me to come speak today. (Applause.) Some tried to guilt me into coming. I got one that said, "I went to your first inauguration, can you please come to my graduation?" (Applause.) Some tried bribery: "I'll support the Chicago Bulls." Another said today would be your birthday -- so happy birthday, whoever you are. My personal favorite -- somebody wrote and said, "We are super underrated!" (Laughter.) I'm sure she was talking about this school. But keep in mind, you're not only the number-one university in America younger than 50 years old, you also hold the Guinness World Record for biggest water pistol fight. (Applause.) You're pretty excited about that. (Laughter.) 15:14:31 "We are super underrated." This young lady could have just as well been talking, though, about this generation. I think this generation of young people is super underrated. In your young lives, you've seen dizzying change, from terror attacks to economic turmoil; from Twitter to Tumblr. Some of your families have known tough times during the course of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. You're graduating into a still-healing job market, and some of you are carrying student loan debt that you're concerned about. And yet, your generation -- the most educated, the most diverse, the most tolerant, the most politically independent and the most digitally fluent in our history -- is also on record as being the most optimistic about our future. And I'm here to tell you that you are right to be optimistic. (Applause.) You are right to be optimistic. Consider this: Since the time most of you graduated from high school, fewer Americans are at war. More have health insurance. More are graduating from college. Our businesses have added more than 9 million new jobs. The number of states where you're free to marry who you love has more than doubled. (Applause.) And that's just some of the progress that you've seen while you've been studying here at UC Irvine. But we do face real challenges: Rebuilding the middle class and reversing inequality's rise. Reining in college costs. Protecting voting rights. Welcoming the immigrants and young dreamers who keep this country vibrant. Stemming the tide of violence that guns inflict on our schools. We've got some big challenges. And if you're fed a steady diet of cynicism that says nobody is trustworthy and nothing works, and there's no way we can actually address these problems, then the temptation is too just go it alone, to look after yourself and not participate in the larger project of achieving our best vision of America. And I'm here to tell you, don't believe the cynicism. Guard against it. Don't buy into it. Today, I want to use one case study to show you that progress is possible and perseverance is critical. I want to show you how badly we need you -- both your individual voices and your collective efforts -- to give you the chance you seek to change the world, and maybe even save it. I'm going to talk about one of the most significant long-term challenges that our country and our planet faces: the growing threat of a rapidly changing climate. Now, this isn't a policy speech. I understand it's a commencement, and I already delivered a long climate address last summer. I remember because it was 95 degrees and my staff had me do it outside, and I was pouring with sweat -- as a visual aid. (Laughter.) And since this is a very educated group, you already know the science. Burning fossil fuels release carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide traps heat. Levels of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere are higher than they've been in 800,000 years. We know the trends. The 18 warmest years on record have all happened since you graduates were born. We know what we see with our own eyes. Out West, firefighters brave longer, harsher wildfire seasons; states have to budget for that. Mountain towns worry about what smaller snow packs mean for tourism. Farmers and families at the bottom worry about what it will mean for their water. In cities like Norfolk and Miami, streets now flood frequently at high tide. Shrinking icecaps have National Geographic making the biggest change in its atlas since the Soviet Union broke apart. So the question is not whether we need to act. The overwhelming judgment of science, accumulated and measured and reviewed over decades, has put that question to rest. The question is whether we have the will to act before it's too late. For if we fail to protect the world we leave not just to my children, but to your children and your children's children, we will fail one of our primary reasons for being on this world in the first place. And that is to leave the world a little bit better for the next generation. 15:19:42 Now, the good news is you already know all this. UC Irvine set up the first Earth System Science Department in America. (Applause.) A UC Irvine professor-student team won the Nobel Prize for discovering that CFCs destroy the ozone layer. (Applause.) A UC Irvine glaciologist's work led to one of last month's report showing one of the world's major ice sheets in irreversible retreat. Students and professors are in the field working to predict changing weather patterns, fire seasons, and water tables -- working to understand how shifting seasons affect global ecosystems; to get zero- emission vehicles on the road faster; to help coastal communities adapt to rising seas. And when I challenge colleges to reduce their energy use to 20 percent by 2020, UC Irvine went ahead and did it last year. Done. (Applause.) So UC Irvine is ahead of the curve. All of you are ahead of the curve. Your generation reminds me of something President Wilson once said. He said, "Sometimes people call me an idealist. Well, that is the way I know I am an American." That's who we are. And if you need a reason to be optimistic about our future, then look around this stadium. Because today, in America, the largest single age group is 22 years ago. And you are going to do great things. And I want you to know that I've got your back -- because one of the reasons I ran for this office was because I believed our dangerous addiction to foreign oil left our economy at risk and our planet in peril. So when I took office, we set out to use more clean energy and less dirty energy, and waste less energy overall. And since then, we've doubled the distance our cars will go on a gallon of gas by the middle of the next decade. We've tripled the electricity we harness from the wind, generating enough last year to power every home in California. We've multiplied the electricity we generate from the sun 10 times over. And this state, California, is so far ahead of the rest of the country in solar, that earlier this year solar power met 18 percent of your total power demand one day. (Applause.) 15:22:25 The bottom line is, America produces more renewable energy than ever, more natural gas than anyone. And for the first time in nearly two decades, we produce more oil here at home than we buy from other countries. And these advances have created jobs and grown our economy, and helped cut our carbon pollution to levels not seen in about 20 years. Since 2006, no country on Earth has reduced its total carbon pollution by as much as the United States of America. (Applause.) So that's all reason for optimism. Here's the challenge: We've got to do more. What we're doing is not enough. And that's why, a couple weeks ago, America proposed new standards to limit the amount of harmful carbon pollution that power plants can dump into the air. And we also have to realize, as hundreds of scientists declared last month, that climate change is no longer a distant threat, but "has moved firmly into the present." That's a quote. In some parts of the country, weather-related disasters like droughts, and fires, and storms, and floods are going to get harsher and they're going to get costlier. And that's why, today, I'm announcing a new $1 billion competitive fund to help communities prepare for the impacts of climate change and build more resilient infrastructure across the country. (Applause.) So it's a big problem. But progress, no matter how big the problem, is possible. That's important to remember. Because no matter what you do in life, you're going to run up against big problems -- in your own personal life and in your communities and in your country. There's going to be a stubborn status quo, and there are going to be people determined to stymie your efforts to bring about change. There are going to be people who say you can't do something. There are going to be people who say you shouldn't bother. I've got some experience in this myself. (Laughter.) Now, part of what's unique about climate change, though, is the nature of some of the opposition to action. It's pretty rare that you'll encounter somebody who says the problem you're trying to solve simply doesn't exist. When President Kennedy set us on a course for the moon, there were a number of people who made a serious case that it wouldn't be worth it; it was going to be too expensive, it was going to be too hard, it would take too long. But nobody ignored the science. I don't remember anybody saying that the moon wasn't there or that it was made of cheese. (Laughter.) And today's Congress, though, is full of folks who stubbornly and automatically reject the scientific evidence about climate change. They will tell you it is a hoax, or a fad. One member of Congress actually says the world is cooling. There was one member of Congress who mentioned a theory involving "dinosaur flatulence" -- which I won't get into. (Laughter.) Now, their view may be wrong -- and a fairly serious threat to everybody's future -- but at least they have the brass to say what they actually think. There are some who also duck the question. They say -- when they're asked about climate change, they say, "Hey, look, I'm not a scientist." And I'll translate that for you. What that really means is, "I know that manmade climate change really is happening, but if I admit it, I'll be run out of town by a radical fringe that thinks climate science is a liberal plot, so I'm not going to admit it." (Applause.) Now, I'm not a scientist either, but we've got some really good ones at NASA. I do know that the overwhelming majority of scientists who work on climate change, including some who once disputed the data, have put that debate to rest. The writer, Thomas Friedman, recently put it to me this way. He were talking, and he says, "Your kid is sick, you consult 100 doctors; 97 of them tell you to do this, three tell [you] to do that, and you want to go with the three?" The fact is, this should not be a partisan issue. After all, it was Republicans who used to lead the way on new ideas to protect our environment. It was Teddy Roosevelt who first pushed for our magnificent national parks. It was Richard Nixon who signed the Clean Air Act and opened the EPA. George H.W. Bush -- a wonderful man who at 90 just jumped out of a plane in a parachute -- (laughter) -- said that "human activities are changing the atmosphere in unexpected and unprecedented ways." John McCain and other Republicans publicly supported free market-based cap-and-trade bills to slow carbon pollution just a few years ago -- before the Tea Party decided it was a massive threat to freedom and liberty. These days, unfortunately, nothing is happening. Even minor energy efficiency bills are killed on the Senate floor. And the reason is because people are thinking about politics instead of thinking about what's good for the next generation. What's the point of public office if you're not going to use your power to help solve problems? (Applause.) And part of the challenge is that the media doesn't spend a lot of time covering climate change and letting average Americans know how it could impact our future. Now, the broadcast networks' nightly newscasts spend just a few minutes a month covering climate issues. On cable, the debate is usually between political pundits, not scientists. When we introduced those new anti-pollution standards a couple weeks ago, the instant reaction from the Washington's political press wasn't about what it would mean for our planet; it was what would it mean for an election six months from now. And that kind of misses the point. Of course, they're not scientists, either. And I want to tell you all this not to discourage you. I'm telling you all this because I want to light a fire under you. As the generation getting shortchanged by inaction on this issue, I want all of you to understand you cannot accept that this is the way it has to be. The climate change deniers suggest there's still a debate over the science. There is not. The talking heads on cable news suggest public opinion is hopelessly deadlocked. It is not. Seven in ten Americans say global warming is a serious problem. Seven in ten say the federal government should limit pollution from our power plants. And of all the issues in a recent poll asking Americans where we think we can make a difference, protecting the environment came out on top. (Applause.) So we've got public opinion potentially on our side. We can do this. We can make a difference. You can make a difference. And the sooner you do, the better -- not just for our climate, but for our economy. There's a reason that more than 700 businesses like Apple and Microsoft, and GM and Nike, Intel, Starbucks have declared that "tackling climate change is one of America's greatest economic opportunities in the 21st century." The country that seizes this opportunity first will lead the way. A low-carbon, clean energy economy can be an engine for growth and jobs for decades to come, and I want America to build that engine. Because if we do, others will follow. I want those jobs; I want those opportunities; I want those businesses right here in the United States of America. (Applause.) 15:30:44 Developing countries are using more and more energy, and tens of millions of people are entering the global middle class, and they want to buy cars and refrigerators. So if we don't deal with this problem soon, we're going to be overwhelmed. These nations have some of the fastest-rising levels of carbon pollution. They're going to have to take action to meet this challenge. They're more vulnerable to the effects of climate change than we are. They've got even more to lose. But they're waiting to see what does America do. That's what the world does. It waits to watch us act. And when we do, they move. And I'm convinced that on this issue, when America proves what's possible, then they're going to join us. And America cannot meet this threat alone. Of course, the world cannot meet it without America. This is a fight that America must lead. So I'm going to keep doing my part for as long as I hold this office and as long as I'm a citizen once out of office. But we're going to need you, the next generation, to finish the job. We need scientists to design new fuels. We need farmers to help grow them. We need engineers to invent new technologies. We need entrepreneurs to sell those technologies. (Applause.) We need workers to operate assembly lines that hum with high-tech, zero-carbon components. We need builders to hammer into place the foundations for a clean energy age. We need diplomats and businessmen and women, and Peace Corps volunteers to help developing nations skip past the dirty phase of development and transition to sustainable sources of energy. In other words, we need you. (Applause.) We need you. And if you believe, like I do, that something has to be done on this, then you're going to have to speak out. You're going to have to learn more about these issues. Even if you're not like Jessica and an expert, you're going to have to work on this. You're going to have to push those of us in power to do what this American moment demands. You've got to educate your classmates, and colleagues, and family members and fellow citizens, and tell them what's at stake. You've got to push back against the misinformation, and speak out for facts, and organize others around your vision for the future. You need to invest in what helps, and divest from what harms. And you've got to remind everyone who represents you, at every level of government, that doing something about climate change is a prerequisite for your vote. It's no accident that when President Kennedy needed to convince the nation that sending Americans into space was a worthy goal, he went to a university. That's where he started. Because a challenge as big as that, as costly as that, as difficult as that, requires a spirit of youth. It requires a spirit of adventure; a willingness to take risks. It requires optimism. It requires hope. That day, a man told us we'd go to the moon within a decade. And despite all the naysayers, somehow we knew as a nation that we'd build a spaceship and we'd meet that goal. That's because we're Americans -- and that's what we do. Even when our political system is consumed by small things, we are a people called to do big things. And progress on climate change is a big thing. Progress won't always be flashy; it will be measured in disasters averted, and lives saved, and a planet preserved -- and days just like this one, 20 years from now, and 50 years from now, and 100 years from now. But can you imagine a more worthy goal -- a more worthy legacy -- than protecting the world we leave to our children? 15:34:40 So I ask your generation to help leave us that legacy. I ask you to believe in yourselves and in one another, and above all, when life gets you down or somebody tells you you can't do something, to believe in something better. There are people here who know what it means to dream. When Mohamad Abedi was a boy, the suffering he saw in refugee camps in Lebanon didn't drive him into despair -- it inspired him to become a doctor. And when he came to America, he discovered a passion for engineering. So here, at UC Irvine, he became a biomedical engineer to study the human brain. (Applause.) And Mohamad said, "Had I never come to the United States, I would have never had the ability to do the work that I'm doing." He's now going to CalTech to keep doing that work. Cinthia Flores is the daughter of a single mom who worked as a seamstress and a housekeeper. (Applause.) The first in her family to graduate from high school. The first in her family to graduate from college. And in college, she says, "I learned about myself that I was good at advocating for others, and that I was argumentative -- so maybe I should go to law school." And, today, Cinthia is now the first in her family to graduate from law school. And she plans to advocate for the rights of workers like her mom. (Applause.) She says, "I have the great privilege and opportunity to answer the call of my community." "The bottom line," she says, "is being of service." On 9/11, Aaron Anderson was a sophomore in college. Several months later, he was in training for Army Special Forces. He fought in Afghanistan, and on February 28th, 2006, he was nearly killed by an IED. He endured dozens of surgeries to save his legs, months of recovery at Walter Reed. When he couldn't physically return to active duty, he devoted his time to his brothers in arms, starting two businesses with fellow veterans, and a foundation to help fellow wounded Green Beret soldiers. And then he went back to school. And last December, he graduated summa cum laude from UC Irvine. And Aaron is here today, along with four soon-to-be commissioned ROTC cadets, and 65 other graduating veterans. And I would ask them to stand and be recognized for their service. (Applause.) The point is, you know how to dream. And you know how to work for your dreams. And, yes, sometimes you may be "super underrated." But usually it's the underrated, the underdogs, the dreamers, the idealists, the fighters, the argumentative -- those are the folks who do the biggest things. And this generation -- this 9/11 generation of soldiers; this new generation of scientists and advocates and entrepreneurs and altruists -- you're the antidote to cynicism. It doesn't mean you're not going to get down sometimes. You will. You'll know disillusionment. You'll experience doubt. People will disappoint you by their actions. But that can't discourage you. Cynicism has never won a war, or cured a disease, or started a business, or fed a young mind, or sent men into space. Cynicism is a choice. Hope is a better choice. (Applause.) Hope is what gave young soldiers the courage to storm a beach and liberate people they never met. Hope is what gave young students the strength to sit in and stand up and march for women's rights, and civil rights, and voting rights, and gay rights, and immigration rights. Hope is the belief, against all evidence to the contrary, that there are better days ahead, and that together we can build up a middle class, and reshape our immigration system, and shield our children from gun violence, and shelter future generations from the ravages of climate change. Hope is the fact that, today, the single largest age group in America is 22 years old who are all just itching to reshape this country and reshape the world. And I cannot wait to see what you do tomorrow. Congratulations. (Applause.) Thank you, Class of 2014. God bless you. God bless the United States of America. (Applause.) 15:40:00 Obama departs the podium 15:40:30 Obama does the Anteater Zot cheer

5534 DNC NATIONAL CONVENTION MILWAUKEE WI POOL HEAD ON 08202020 220000 2020 At 8:46 p.m.ET Rep. Bennie Thompson called the convention to order. The night kicked off with a highlight reel of speeches from the week, including but not limited to Barack and Michelle Obama, Kamala Harris, the family of George Floyd, Dr. Jill Biden. DNC Chairman Tom Perez gave a short address ahead of the 9 o'clock hour, discussing the unconventional nature of this cycle's nominating celebration and the input provided to the DNC programming from voters around the country. [8:50:04 PM] "If the literal meaning of the word convention has to do with coming together, then what has brought us together this year, isn't partisanship, it's purpose," Perez said. His introduction speech veered into Biden's dedication to cancer research, after his son Beau died of brain cancer at age 46. After we saw a short video featuring Amanda Litman, who had a personal experience with Biden while she struggled with a family member with cancer. The feed took us back to Perez, who made a plea with the nation to weigh their morals as they begin to request and cast their ballots in the coming weeks. [8:56:08 PM] "Next week, it will be the Republican party's turn to hold their convention. On behalf of their speakers and staff, I hope their organizers will take safety as seriously as we have. And then it will be up to you, America. You'll have heard from two very different candidates for president. You'll be able to dig into the details of their respective plans for solving the challenges we face and decide which plan you think will work for you and your family. But the choice this year is deeper than that. No matter what you think about Donald Trump or Joe Biden, no matter which matter you belong to, or whether you belong to any party at all, your job in this election is to decide what kind of movement is capable of being the vehicle for the change we need." Finally, we saw our official introduction from former 2020er and businessman Andrew Yang. 210543: "We are in a deep, dark hole, and we need leaders who will help us dig out. I know many politicians promise and then fail to deliver." "But we must give this country a chance to recoverâ?"and recovery is only possible with a change of leadership and new ideas. Bold and innovative policies that will get help into your hands in the midst of this crisis are possibleâ?"but we need your help to turn the page for our country in 75 days. "I have gotten to know both Joe and Kamala on the trail over the past year â?"the way you really get to know a person when the cameras are off, the crowds are gone, and itâ?Ts just you and them. They understand the problems we face. They are parents and patriots who want the best for our country. And if we give them the chance, they will fight for us and our families every single day," he said. Julia Louis-Dreyfus will be tonight's emcee. â?<Delaware Sen. Chris Coons followed tonight's prayer with an address on Biden's deep faith. 211510: "His faith is strong and it's personal and private. For Joe, faith isn't a prop or a political tool. I've known Joe about 30 years and I've seen his faith in action. Joe knows the power of prayer, and I've seen him in moments of joy and triumph, of loss and despair, turn to God for strength. Joe's comforted me in my toughest moments, as he has so many others. I'll never forget how Joe took the time to offer me words of comfort as my father lay in hospice. Time and again, I've seen him stop everything and listen, really listen to someone who needs a shoulder to cry on or a partner in prayer. That compassion, that empathy is part of his character. 21171: "Joe's always known this race is a battle for the soul of our country, and he's right. Joe believes. He believes in both the greatness and the goodness of this country. He believes in us and in what we can do together." Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms then spoke on the importance of the vote in November, asking voters to vote early ahead of her official address. She encouraged Americans to get involved in the memory of Congressman Lewis-- saying "every single person" in the Civil Rights movement mattered. 212115: "He walked gently amongst usâ?"not as a distant icon, but as a God-fearing man, doing what he could do to fulfill the as-yet unfulfilled promise of America. People often think they canâ?Tt make a difference like our civil rights icons, but every person in the movement matteredâ?"those who made the sandwiches, swept the church floors, stuffed the envelopes. They, too, changed America. And so can we! The baton has now been passed to each of us. We have cried out for justice, we have gathered in our streets to demand change, and now, we must pass on the gift that John Lewis sacrificed to give us, we must register, and we must vote." She called for the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in a chance for Americans to use their voice. 212325: "We know how important it is that we elect real leaders, like Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. People of honor and integrity, who hold justice close to their hearts and believe that the lives of my four black children matter. In the words of womanist poet Audre Lorde, 'Your silence will not protect you.' Congressman Lewis would not be silenced, and neither can we." â?<We saw a video tribute to civil rights icon and the late Congressman John Lewis (started at 212429), followed by a performance by John Legend and Common (212914). Historian and author Jon Meacham gave an address on the American soul-- hinting to Biden's "Battle for the soul of the nation" through the lens of this country's history. 213529: "This is a grave moment in America: A deadly virus is ravaging us; our jobs are evaporating; our faith in the things that bind us together is fraying, for our democracy is under assault from an incumbent more interested in himself than he is in the rest of us. Extremism, nativism, isolationism, and a lack of economic opportunity for working people are all preventing us from realizing our nationâ?Ts promise. Humankind has long viewed the soul as the vital center, the core, the essence of existence. The soul is what makes us, us. In its finest hours Americaâ?Ts soul has been animated by the proposition that we are all created equal, and by the imperative to ensure that we are treated equally. Yet America is a mix of light and shadow." Meacham advocated for Biden with an emphasis on empathy and love. 213900: "Bending that arc requires all of us. It requires we, the people. And it requires a president of the United States with empathy, grace, a big heart, and an open mind. Joe Biden will be such a president. With our voices and our votes, let us now write the next chapter of the American story. One of hope, of love, of justice. If we do so, we might just save our country and our souls." We then heard from New Mexico Congresswoman Deb Haaland, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress. Her address comes after the criticism toward the DNC for a lack of native voice in this week's programming. Haaland again touched on themes of the importance of the vote, saying "voting is sacred; my people know that." 214040: "I stand here today, a proud 35th generation New Mexican, and one of the first Native American women ever elected to Congress. I'm a symbol of our resilience as the embodiment of America's progress as a nation. I know we can't take our democracy for granted, especially now, as people are dying, as our land is abused, as our Constitution is under attack. We must work for it by getting involved, by registering voters, by voting. Voting is sacred; my people know that. We weren't universally granted the right to vote until 1962, and that fundamental right is more important than ever. Whether your ancestors have been here for hundreds of years or you're a new citizen, know this: whether we vote, and how we vote will determine if our nation's promise of social, racial, and environmental justice will outlast us." After Haaland's speech on the importance of the vote, we heard from Democratic the secretaries of state of California, Alex Padilla, and Michigan, Jocelyn Benson. The two spoke on the safety and security of vote-by-mail and the president's utilization of the system, despite his false attacks on the integrity of the process. 214458: ALEX PADILLA: So letâ?Ts talk about this election. Despite what he says, Donald Trump canâ?Tt cancel it. But he and Republicans are making it too hard for so many to cast their ballots. And now heâ?Ts attacking vote-by-mail to distract and confuse voters. JOCELYN BENSON: And letâ?Ts be clear: there is absolutely zero difference between voting by mail and voting absentee. Millions of Americans have been voting absentee for decades. Donald Trump, his family, his staffâ?"they all vote by mail. In fact, in states like Colorado, Utah, and Oregon voters have been voting by mail for years. Republicans and Democrats agree: it is safe. Padilla and Benson renewed Kamala Harris' calls for Americans to establish a voting plan, warning voters that if results come at a delay in November, their ballot is still safe. 214631: PADILLA: "Don't let anyone keep you from exercising your most sacred right. Make your plan to vote. Grab your mask and head to the polls the first day they're open. Or request your ballot and send it in right away. And know this: Election results may take a little longer this year, but Democrats will fight to make sure your ballot is counted." We then heard from New Jersey senator and fellow 2020er Cory Booker, who spoke on the importance of unions across the country and uplifting members of the working class during the nation's recent economic downturn, saying President Trump has failed. 214838: BOOKER- "Joe Biden and Kamala Harris know the dignity of all working Americans. They know the urgency and the demands of our dream. But working people are under attack. The wealth gap grows, our middle class shrinks and poverty persists. 214913: "He has failed us. But still, I believe in the dream of our ancestors. Together with Joe and Kamala in the White House, we'll raise the minimum wage so no one who works a full-time job in America lives in poverty. Together, we'll fight for those who keep us healthy, who keep us safe, who teach our children." We heard from Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin, who laid out a vision for the country for the working class and reforms to health care as Americans are buried under the coronavirus crisis and the economic downturn which accompanied it. 215700: BALDWIN- "What kind of country do we want to be? Do we want to be a country where millionaires get to dodge taxes or one where working families get a break? "Do we want to be a country where medical bills bury people in debt or one where healthcare is affordable for all? Or where tens of thousands of people die from a virus? Or where the American dream lives?" 215811: "And over the past month, we have added another to that list: a nation free from COVID. That's why Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are the only answer in this election." Illinois Sen. Tammy Baldwin spoke on her experience as a wounded military veteran-- making a pitch to Americans about Biden's commitment to military families. 220712: "You see, military service doesnâ?Tt just take courage and sacrifice from those in uniformâ?"theyâ?Tre required from their families, too. Joe Biden understands those sacrifices, because he has made them himself. When his son Beau enlisted in the Army and deployed to Iraq, that burden was shouldered by his family as well. Joe understands the pain I felt when it was Bryan's turn to be deployed. He knows the fear military families live with because heâ?Ts felt that dread of never knowing if your loved one is safe. He understands their bravery because he had to muster that same strength every hour of every day Beau was overseas. "Thatâ?Ts the kind of leader our service members deserve: a leader who would actually honor their sacrifices. But they donâ?Tt have that in our current commander in chief, whoâ?Ts either unwilling or incapable of doing so." She gave a scathing review of Donald Trump's foreign policy, and his use of military forces during his time as president. 220801: "As president, Joe Biden would never let tyrants manipulate him like a puppet. He would never pervert our military to stroke his own ego. He would never turn his back on our troops or threaten them against Americans peacefully exercising their constitutional rights. Joe Biden would stand up for what's right, stand tall for our troops, and stand strong against our enemies. Because unlike Trump Joe Biden has common decency." Former presidential contender, former Mayor of South Bend, Ind., and military veteran Pete Buttigieg spoke on the sacrifices members of the military have made for the United States, questioning Americans about where they will stand with their vote in the general election. 221213: "Beau Biden lived a life of service, in office and in uniform. When you put your life on the line for your countryâ?"especially this countryâ?"you do it not because itâ?Ts a country you live in, but because itâ?Ts a country you believe in . I believe in this country because America, uniquely, holds the promise of a place where everyone can belong. We know that for too many and for too long, that promise has gone unrealized. But we also know America has been at its best whenever we make that circle of belonging wider. 221409: "Every American must now decide. Can America be a place where faith is about healing and not exclusion? Can we become a country that lives up to the truth that Black lives matter? Will we handle questions of science and medicine by turning to scientists and doctors? What will we do to make America into a land where no one who works full time can live in poverty," he said. We had a Zoom discussion from former 2020ers on the future of the country, their relationships with Biden and their time in the Senate. Former New York City Mayor and 2020er Michael Bloomberg hit Trump on his track record during his time in the White House, asking Americans if they feel he should be "rehired." 222151: "When confronted with the biggest calamity any president has faced in the modern era, Donald Trump spent the year down playing the threat, ignoring science and recommending quack cures which let COVID-19 spread much faster than it should have, leaving hundreds of thousands needlessly sick or dead. He has failed the American people catastrophically. But tonight I'm not asking you to vote against Donald Trump because he's a bad guy. 222227: "I'm urging you to vote against him because he's done a bad job. Today, unemployment is at historic highs and small businesses are struggling just to survive. It didn't have to be this way. He drew comparisons between Biden and Trump's economic plans, tearing down Trump's tendency to boast economic growth. 222356: "And economic growth was higher under Biden and Obama than under Trump. In fact, while Biden helped save one million auto industry jobs, Trump has lost 250,000 manufacturing jobs. So when Trump says he wants to make America great again, he's making a pretty good case for Joe Biden. Look, our goal shouldn't be to bring back the pandemic economy. It should be, as Joe says, to build it back better. 222426: "Joe's economic plan will create clean energy jobs that help fight another crisis that Trump is ignoring, climate change. And Joe will rebuild our crumbling roads and bridges, something Trump has incessantly talked about doing. We are set to hear next from Biden's family, the Curry family and Biden himself. In two videos, members of the Biden family paid tribute to their patriarchal figure, including Bidenâ?Ts son Hunter Biden--a notable appearance by his only surviving son who has largely stayed off the campaign trail in the wake of the controversy over his work abroad while his father was vice president and the impeachment trial of Donald Trump. In alternating lines, Hunter and Bidenâ?Ts daughter, Ashley spoke about the qualities of their dad, and how those qualities will shape his presidency. ASHLEY: He will be tough. HUNTER: And honest. ASHLEY: Caring and principled. HUNTER: He'll listen. He will be there when you need him. ASHLEY: He'll tell you the truth even when you don't want to hear it. HUNTER: He'll never let you down. ASHLEY He'll be rock steady. HUNTER The strongest shoulder you can ever lean on. ASHLEY: He'll beam with pride every time you succeed. HUNTER: He'll make your grandkids feel that what they've got to say matters. ASHLEY: He'll treat everyone with respect no matter who you are. HUNTER>> He'll get up no matter how many times he's been knocked down. ASHLEY>> He'll be the worst enemy any bully ever saw. HUNTER>> He'll be the best friend you have ever had. ASHLEY>> He'll love you with all of his heart. HUNTER>> And if you give him your cell phone number. ASHLEY>> He's going to call it. HUNTER>> How do we know? ASHLEY>> Because he's been that way our whole lives. (22:36:24) But it was Bidenâ?Ts late son, Beau Biden who got the last word in the video, via a video clip of Beau introducing Joe Biden at the 2008 convention. â?oIn moments both public and private, he's the father I have always known, the grandfather my children love and adore, my father, my hero, Joe Biden,â?? Beau says in the clips (22:38:05) Just before Hunter and Ashleyâ?Ts video, a lighthearted video from Bidenâ?Ts 4 granddaughters, Naomi, Finnegan, Masie and Natalie, spoke about their grandfathersâ?T love of ice cream and phone calls to check in on them., as well as their urging him to join the Democratic primary last year. â?oI came down from Pen and Masie came up from D.C., and my cousins lived down the road. He thought we were calling a meeting sort of to, like, discuss, you know, whether or not we wanted him to, but really we were calling it to be like, get in that race right now,â?? Naomi, the eldest granddaughter said. (22:31:44 After a nearly 50 year career, and 3 presidential runs, tonight, Joe Biden officially accepted the Democratic Nomination--a moment more than 30 years in the making. â?oItâ?Ts with great honor and humility that I accept this nomination for president of the United States of America,â?? Biden said, wasting no time in his remarks to officially accept. (22:49:46) In broad, bold language, Biden laid out his case for his campaign, focusing on his plans for leading the country and winning back â?othe soul of America,â?? lamenting that the country is facing 4 historic crises --â??A perfect storm,â?? in his eyes. â?oWinning it for those communities who have known the injustice of a knee on the neck, for all the young people who have known only America being rising inequity and shrinking opportunity. They deserve the experience of America's promise,â?? Biden said. (225114) â?oThey deserve to experience it in full. You know, no generation ever knows what history will ask of it. All we can ever know is whether we're ready when that moment arrives. And now history has delivered us to one of the most difficult moments America's ever faced. Four, four historic crises all at the same time, a perfect storm. (225140) The worst pandemic in over a hundred years, the worst economic crisis since the great depression, the most compelling call for racial justice since the 60s and the undeniable realities and just the accelerating threats of climate change. So the question for us is simple: are we ready? I believe we are. (22:52:06) In a speech that felt less like a convention address, and more like a presidential address, Biden said that all American know â?oin their bones,â?? that this election is different. â?oYou know, all elections are important. But we know in our bones this one is more consequential. As many have said, America is at an inflexion point, a time of real peril but also extraordinary possibilities. We can choose a path of becoming angrier, less hopeful, more divided, a path of shadow and suspicion or we can choose a different path, and together, take this chance to heal, to reform, to unite. A path of hope and light.â?? â?oThis is a life-changing election. This will determine what America's going to look like for a long, long time. Character is on the ballot. Compassion is on the ballot. Decency, science, democracy. They're all on the ballot,â?? Biden implored in a speech that featured more lofty rhetoric than usual for a politician that prides himself on being a man of the people. (22:52:30) Biden did not address the president by name in his remarks, instead urging voters to simply judge the president on the facts of his administration--believing that would bare out the clear choice. â?oJust judge this president on the facts. 5 million Americans infected by covid-19. More than 170,000 Americans have died. By far the worst performance of any nation on Earth. More than 50 million people have filed for unemployment this year. More than 10 million people are going to lose their health insurance this year. Nearly 1 in 6 small businesses have closed this year,â?? Biden argued. (22:53:38) â?oOur current president has failed in his most basic duty to the nation. He's failed to protect us. He's failed to protect America. And my fellow Americans, that is unforgivable. As president, I'll make you a promise. I'll protect America, I will defend us from every attack, seen and unseen, always, without exception, every time. â?? he added. (22:58:18) Biden hit on several issues throughout his remarks, talking about the importance of protecting healthcare, and pledging to protect social security and Medicaid, The former vice president also paid tribute to President Obama thanking the man he once shared a ticket for the example he set, before delivering a sharp elbow to President Trump. â?oAnd speaking of president Obama, a man I was honored to serve alongside for 8 years as vice president, let me take this moment to say something we don't say nearly enough. Thank you, Mr. President. You were a great president. A president our children could and did look up to. No one's going to say that about the current occupant of the white house,â?? (22:54:57) Biden issued a stark warning to the country, saying life as it once one will never return until we get the virus under control. â?oWe will never get our economy back on track. We will never get our kids safely back in school. We will never have our lives back. Until we deal with this virus. The tragedy of where we are today is it didn't e to be this bad. Just look around. It's not this bad in Canada or Europe or Japan or almost anywhere else in the world,â?? Biden said. (22:56:15) In one of his bluntest critiques of Trump in the speech, he hammered him for hoping for a â?omiracleâ?? that will end the coronavirusâ?T wrath on America. â?oAnd the president keeps telling us the virus is going to disappear. He keeps waiting for a miracle. Well, I have news for him. No miracle is coming. We lead the world to confirm cases. We lead the world in deaths. Our economy's in tatters, with black, Latino, asian-american, native-american communities bearing the brunt of it. And after all this time the president still does not have a plan. Well, I do. If I'm your president on day one we'll implement the national strategy I've been laying out since March.â?? (22:56:44) During his speech Biden also channeled and weaved in his own personal experience with loss and grief, drawing a parallel to the thousands of families suffering during the ongoing pandemic and assuring them he will be a president who understands their pain. â?oLook, I understand. I understand how hard it is to have any hope right now. On this summer night let me take a moment to speak to those of you who have lost the most. I have some idea how it feels to lose someone you love. I know that deep black hole that opens up in the middle of your chest and you feel like you're being sucked into it. I know how mean, cruel, and unfair life can be sometimes,â?? Biden, who has experienced several person tragedies, said. (22:58:43) â?oBut I've learned two things. First, your loved one may have left this Earth, but they'll never leave your heart. They'll always be with you. You'll always hear them. And second, I found the best way through pain and loss and grief is to find purpose,â?? he urged. (22:59:13) Biden then turned his attention to the youths of America, praising them for speaking up on the issues that impact them most, like Climate Change, gun control, before turning his attention to his running mate, Kamala Harris. â?oIt will be the work of the next president to restore the promise of America to everyone. And I'm not going to have to do it alone because I'll have a great vice president at my side. Senator Kamala Harris, she's a powerful voice for this nation. Her story is the American story. She knows about all the obstacles thrown in the way of so many in our country, women, black women, black Americans, south Asian Americans, immigrants, the left out and the left behind. But she's overcome every obstacle she's ever faced. No one's been tougher on the big banks and the gun lobby,â?? Biden said of Harris. (23:04:45) â?oNo one's been tough in calling out the current administration for its extremism, its failure to follow the law, it's failure to simply tell the truth,â?? Biden continued (23:05:27) Biden also spoke fondly of his wife, Dr. Jill Biden, expressing his disbelief at having two great loves of his life and extolling the passion he believes she will bring to the job of First Lady. â?oAfter losing my first wife in that car accident, Jill came into my life. She put our family back together. She's an educator, a mom, a military mom, an unstoppable force. If she puts her mind to it, just get out of the way. She's going to get it done. She was a great second lady, and I know she'll make a great first lady for this nation. She loves this country so much. And I'll always have the strength that can only come from family,â?? Biden said. (23:05:57) Biden also acknowledged his children, but his vote seemed to catch as he spoke about his late son, Beau. â?oWhile he's no longer with us, Beau inspires me every day. Beau served our nation in uniform. A year in Iraq, a decorated Iraqi war veteran. I take very personally and I have the profound responsibility of serving as commander in chief,â?? Biden said of his late son. (23:06:05) The former vice president also spoke forcefully about restoring Americaâ?Ts standing globally, bringing up the reported Russian bounties placed on American soldiers in Afghanistan and assuring the country â?othe days of cozying up to dictators is over.â?? â?oI'll be a president that will stand with our allies and friends and make it clear to our adversaries the days of cozying up to dictators is over. Under president Biden, America will not turn a blind eye to Russian bounties on the heads of American soldiers. Nor will I put up with foreign interference in our most sacred democratic exercise: voting. And I'll always stand for our values of human rights and dignity,â?? Biden said. (23:07:03) Biden once again referenced Charlottesville, the issue he focused on when he launched his campaign in April of 2019--and events that Biden has credited with inspiring to get in the race. â?oThat was a wake up call for us as a country and for me a call to action. At that moment I knew I'd have to run. My father taught us that silence was complicity, and I can never remain silent or complicit,â?? Biden bellowed. (23:08:57) Aside from his reference to the death of George Floyd off the top of his remarks. Biden returned to it again, recalling what he called his most important conversation of the campaign with Floydâ?Ts 6 year old daughter, Gianna after his death. â?oDaddy changed the world,â?? he said Floydâ?Ts young daughter told him. â?oMaybe George Floyd's murder was a breaking point. Maybe John Lewis' passing, the inspiration, but however it's come to be, however it's happened, America's ready, in John's words, to lay down, quote, â?~The heavy burden of hate at last,â?T and then the hard work of rooting out our systemic racism,â?? Biden wondered aloud. (23:09:49) Biden gave his pitch for uniting the country, and throughout the remarks, asking the American public if they were ready for the next chapter. Of course, It wouldn't be a Biden speech if he didnâ?Tt quote an Irish poet, choosing one of his most quoted Seamus Heany quotes about â?ohope and history rhyming, ending on a rousing positive plea. â?oThe Irish poet Seamus Heaney once wrote â?ohistory says don't hope on this side of the grave but then once in a lifetime, the longed for tidal wave of justice can rise up and hope and history rhyme.â?? This is our moment to make hope and history rhyme with passion and purpose. Let us begin, you and I together, one nation under god, united in our love for America, united in our love for each other,â?? Biden said, his voice rising. (23:11:53) â?oFor love is more powerful than hate. Hope is more powerful than fear, and light is more powerful than dark. This is our moment. This is our mission. May history be able to say that the end of this chapter of American darkness begin here tonight as love and hope and light join in the battle for the soul of the nation. And this is a battle we will win, and we'll do it together. I promise you. Thank you and may god bless you, and may god protect our troops. Goodnight,â?? Biden concluded the most important political speech of his life thus far. (23:12:28) Following the remarks, The Bidens, Harris and Emhoff all moved to the parking lot just outside the chase center, greeting the waiting cars and crowd on a stage with a large American Flag as its backdrop, before a flurry of fireworks illuminated the sky. All watched the fireworks with delight--perhaps no one more so than Biden, who very often gestured at the fire works with open arms, and at one point pulled his mask down to speak with his wife amid the booms. â?oWelcome to Wilmington,â?? Biden told reporters gathered in front of the stage to watch them watch the fireworks. One reporter yelled at Biden if he had been tested for COVID-19, but it was highly unlikely he heard the question over both the blare of the music and booms of the fireworks. While people had largely remained socially distanced throughout the evening in the parking lot, that quickly went out the window when Biden appeared, with groups rushing towards the stage. ######## EDWARD GOOD>> I am Edward good. I'm 95 years old. I'm a veteran of World War II and of Korea. When I wear a uniform, I wear only two badges, my parachute wings and the combat infantry badge. I did make one combat jump over the Rhine in Germany and I'm proud of that. I have been a Republican since the 1960s. I'm a member of the NRA. And I voted for trump. 220104 I think Trump has been the worst president we've ever had, so I'll be glad to see him go. I think Joe Biden will be a great leader for the United States. Like me, on the day of my jump into Germany, I think Joe Biden cares about doing his proper duty for the United States, and if he is elected, that's what he will do. âTªâTªâTªâTª Rise up âTªâTªâTªâTª come on, rise up. 220138 >> This year's election is very important. Probably will be the most important election we've had in years. I recommend strongly based on the division in this country created by our current president, Donald Trump, we need to put somebody else in the white house that's going to bring us together. Now let me just explain something. I've been a long standing Republican for a long time, and I'm telling you, you got to vote for Joe Biden. You have to. I don't think we can deal with the type of person we have in the white house any longer. 220208 So it is up to you, America, and me because this election I'm voting for joe. Iâ?Tm sure, I'm absolutely sure he's going to help us bring this country together once again. âTªâTªâTªâTª 220232 >> My name is Lakisha Cole. I met my husband 20 years ago. We started dating while I was in college. Once I graduated from college, we eloped. Two weeks after that, he deployed. >> This is what I wanted to do. You know, you love this country. Are you willing to do the hard work it takes to maintain it? 220255 >> What was supposed to be a six-month deployment actually turned into 11 months. There was nothing really to prepare me as a new military spouse on how to deal with the stress. >> When people get married, they expect to grow old with each other. With multiple combat tours, there is no guarantee of any of those things. 220318 >> There -- just a long laundry list of uncertainties that we have to juggle. JILL BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> You know, Joe has always cared about military families. They have been through so much. When I went to Iraq, one of the generals said, you know, I want to share this story with you. In his daughter's class, it was a Christmas program, and they were playing the Ave Maria. And one of the little girls burst into tears and the teacher ran over and said, what's the matter? What's the matter? 220352 And she said, that's the song they played at my daddy's funeral. He died in the war. The teacher had no idea that that little girl's father had fought in the war and had died. And that night, I said to my staff, I'm a teacher. We can do better. We've got to do better to help our military kids. 220414 >> The Bidens have a track record of helping military families, and we have seen it with the work that theyâ?Tve done with joining forces and how they were able to, you know, rally a country behind us. 220424 BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Men and women we send to war to defend our nation, care for them and their families while they're gone and care for them and their families when they come home. [ Applause ] 220436 >> It was the very first time that I, as a military spouse, felt like someone was listening to us and someone cared. JILL BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> It's not just the service member who serves. The entire family serves as well. Joe said, we have one sacred obligation, to take care of our members. During this pandemic for sure, so many veterans have lost their jobs. 220505 So many military spouses have lost their jobs. That's one of the things that will be a priority in a Biden administration. We will make sure that all Americans have health care, employment, the things that families need to thrive. 220524 >> When people show you who they are, believe them the first time. And we know exactly who Joe is. He is the best candidate for America, not just for our family, but for all families. SENATOR TAMMY DUCKWORTH 220549 DUCKWORTH>> Good evening. I'm Tammy ductworth. When I first enlisted in the army I was eager to serve my country, yet anxious whether Iâ?Td be able to earn my way into the ranks. But I earned my wings and later commanded my own air assault unit learning that serving and leading in the military is both a privilege and a sacrifice. To be a commander, you must always put your troops first because one day you may order them to sacrifice everything for our great nation. 220616 To do that, leaders must command their troops' respect and be worthy of their pledge to protect and defend our constitution no matter the cost. But military service doesn't just take sacrifice from those in uniform. It is required from their families, too. My husband Brian was the one who rushed to Walter Reed after I was wounded in Iraq. He was the one holding my hand waiting for me to wake up. And when I finally did, he was my rock, getting me through those hours, weeks, months of unspeakable pain and unending surgeries. 220648 He was my anchor as I re-learned to walk, helping me through every step and every stumble. Our military spouses hold their families together, praying for their loved one's safety wherever they are deployed and serving as caregivers to our disabled service members and then picking up the pieces and starting again whenever the next tour or the next war arises. 220712 Joy Biden understands these sacrifices, because he's made them himself. When his son Beau deployed to Iraq, his burden was also shouldered by his family. Joe knows the fear military families live, because he's felt that dread of never knowing if your deployed loved one is safe. He understands their bravery, because he has had to muster that same strength every hour of every day Beau was overseas. 220739 That's the kind of leader our service members deserve, one who understands the risks they face and who would actually protect them by doing his job as commander in chief. Instead, they have a coward in chief who won't stand up to Vladimir Putin, read his daily intelligence briefings, or even publicly admonish adversaries for reportedly putting bounties on our troopsâ?T heads. 220801 As president, Joe Biden would never let tyrants manipulate him like a puppet. He would never pervert our military to stroke his own ego. He would never turn his back on our troops or threaten them against Americans peacefully exercising their constitutional rights. Joe Biden would stand up for what's right, stand tall for our troops, and stand strong against our enemies. Because unlike Trump Joe Biden has common decency. 220830 He has common sense. He can command both from experience and from strength. Donald Trump doesn't deserve to call himself commander in chief for another four minutes, let alone another four years. Our troops deserve better. Our country deserves better. If you agree text more to 30330 to elect Joe Biden, a leader who actually cares enough about America to lead. 220903 BEAU BIDEN (ON VIDEO>>> Good evening. I'm Beau Biden and Joe Biden is my dad. >> Some voices are never silenced. Some work never ceases to change lives. Some people never stop inspiring even after they're gone. Beau Biden was a husband, father, brother, son, soldier, attorney general. He was given just 46 years on his Earth. 220935 OBAMA (ON VIDEO)>> He did in 46 years what most of us couldn't do in 146. Think about the day that dawns for children who are safer because of Beau, whose lives are full because of him. Think about the day that dawns for parents who rest easier and families who are freer because of him. Some folks may never know that their lives are better because of Beau Biden, but that's okay. Certainly for Beau, a claim was never the point of public service. 221004 >> If you know Beau, you knew he lived by the strictest code of honor, duty, service, country. You never had to ask if he would do something the right way. He didn't know any other way. 221018 OBAMA (ON VIDEO)>> Beau didn't cut corners. He turned down an appointment to be Delaware's attorney general so he could win it fair and square. When the field was clear for him to run for senate, he chose to finish his job as AG instead. 221033 After 9/11, he joined the National Guard. He felt it was his obligation. He did his duty to his country and deployed to Iraq. >> Beau Biden served his country in battle. He prosecuted one of the worst child predators in American history. And even though he is no longer with us, every day he still inspires the next president of the united States. BEAU (ON VIDEO)>> It won't be possible for me to be here this fall, so I have something to ask of you. Be there for my dad like he was for me. 211113 LOUIS-DREYFUS>> A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer, and I was absolutely terrified. One of the first people who called me was Joe. His real warmth and kindness on that call, man, I got to say, it made me cry. Our current president has made me cry, too, but it's never had anything to do with his warmth or kindness. Joe Biden's empathy is genuine. You can feel it. That's why president Obama asked Joe to head up the cancer moonshot. 221149 President Obama knows what we all know, Joe Biden understands suffering and loss and sacrifice. Mayor Pete Buttigieg also knows something about sacrifice. He volunteered and was deployed to Afghanistan, then returned home to Indiana to become a highly effective public servant. Say hi to Mayor Pete. PETE BUTTIGIEG 221213 BUTTIGIEG>> Good evening. Beau Biden lived a life of service in office and in uniform. When you put your life on the line for this country, you do it not because it's the country you live in but because it's a country you believe in. I believe in this country. Because America uniquely holds the promise of a place where everyone can belong. We know that for too many and for too long, that promise has been denied. 221248 But we also know America is at its best when we make that circle of belonging wider. Just over ten years ago, I joined the military where firing me because of who I am wasn't just possible, it was policy. Now, in 2020, it is unlawful in America to fire someone because of who they are or who they love. The very ring on my finger, a wedding we celebrated here where I'm standing, reflects how this country can change. 221322 Love makes my marriage real. But political courage made it possible. Including that of Joe Biden, who stepped out ahead even of this party when he said that marriage equality ought to be the law of the land. There is a long way to go. But if this much can change between 2010 and 2020, imagine what could change between now and 2030. 221349 Imagine what we could achieve, this coalition we are building this very season, gathering Progressives and moderates, independents and even what I like to call future former Republicans standing for an America where everyone belongs. Joe Biden is right. 221409 This is a contest for the soul of the nation. And to me, that contest is not between good Americans and evil Americans. It is the struggle to call out what is good in every American. It's up to us. Will America be a place where faith is about healing and not exclusion? Can we become a country that lives up to the truth that black lives matter? 221437 Will we handle questions of science and medicine by turning to scientists and doctors? Will we see to it that no one who works full-time can live in poverty? 221452 I trust Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to guide us toward that better future, because Iâ?Tve seen up close their empathy and their capacity. Just as I have seen my fellow Americansâ?T capacity to support and include one another in new ways and do better by the promise of America. The day I was born, the idea of an out candidate seeking any federal office at all was laughable. Yet, earlier this year I campaigned for the presidency, often with my husband Chasten at my side, winning delegates to this very convention. 221529 Now, I come to this convention proudly supporting Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Joining fellow Democrats who were squaring off in competition just a few months ago. A number of us recently got together to talk about the Joe we know. 221550 BOOKER>> Hi. I'm Cory booker. Welcome to everybody at home. I am very excited to present to you a group of people that ran in the 2020 democratic primary against Joe Biden. You could think of this sort of like survivor on the out interviews of all the people that got voted off the island. Bernie, Bernie, don't you laugh because I got questions for you like why does my girlfriend like you more than she likes me? SANDERS>> Because smarter than you and that's the obvious answer, right? 221622 BOOKER>> Hey, Iâ?Tm curious, because, Senator Sanders and Senator Klobuchar you actually served with Joe Biden in the senate. I'm wondering if you have any memories of what he was like as a colleague in the senate? KLOBUCHAR>> Well, I remember one night when I was giving one of those floor speeches and Corey you know what this is like, no one was there. No one was watching. I was all alone, and I gave my speech with much vigor to a completely empty chamber. And I walked out of there and I thought, I wonder if my mom was even watching this on C-SPAN. 221653 And at that moment, the cell phone rings, and I actually thought, maybe my mom was watching it on C-SPAN. And you know who it was? It was Joe Biden. And that kind of goes to not only his kindness for calling me and being a mentor, but it also goes to how much he cares about our government and what people are saying, and that even when he's at home at night, and he's watching and he cares. 221718 SANDERS>> But, Amy, we all want to know, did your mother watch the speech? KLOBUCHAR>> I know. 221725 BUTTIGIEG>> Do you remember the steak fry when we were waiting to go on? It worked out to where I was there the same time he was, and he pulled me aside at one point, and he pointed to somebody who we both knew who was working on my campaign, but he'd known from before and let me know that that was somebody who had gone through a family tragedy, that Joe somehow knew about, and just thought it was important for me to know that about someone who was working with me. 221749 I thought -- you know, over time I realized that it's just basic to who he is, but that always stuck with me. 221755 BOOKER>> Elizabeth, do you have any remembrances as well? WARREN>> I think the day I saw Joe the clearest was on the one-year anniversary of the Boston marathon bombing and everyone of course was enormously honored to have the vice president here. But at some point in that speech, he shifted to the parent who had lost a child, to the man who had lost a wife, to someone who had experienced loss very personally and he spoke to each of the families from the heart. 221833 BOOKER>> That's phenomenal. I want to ask what gets you excited about this idea of the inclusion of big ideas from all over the party into the future, into the next administration? 221847 YANG>> The magic of Joe Biden is that everything he does becomes the new reasonable. If he comes with an ambitious plan to address climate change, all of a sudden everyone is going to follow his lead. You can see with him choosing Kamala, too, he wants to build the best team. Let's do it together. That's how we're going to rebuild this country. 221905 OROURKE>> Cory, I'm so optimistic about our country right now despite some very dark days for a lot of our fellow Americans in large part because of what young people are doing right now. After the murder of Ahmaud ud arbery, breonna Taylor and George Floyd, young people by and large, led these protests, and theydid so in the absolute best traditions of this country. The the tradition of John Lewis. 221932 My optimism and my faith in this country is reflected in those young people and the way that Joe and kamala are listening to them and incorporating their ideas and their urgency in the campaign that they're running and the administration that they're going to lead. BOOKER>> And I often think some people say they don't know if they're going to vote or not are saying that from a point of privilege that a lot of Americans don't have. There are so many things for lots of folks who live life on the margins that this election is gonna decide and maybe it is not a life or death issue for you, but we are all in this together. Oâ?TROURKE>> Absolutely. 222007 SANDERS>> Cory, what I would say is that this is clearly the most important election in the modern history of this country. And Joe Biden, you have a human being who is empathetic, who is honest, who is decent. And at this particular moment in American history, my god, that is something that this country absolutely needs. And all of us, whether you are Progressives, whether you are moderates or conservatives, have got to come together to defeat this president. 222040 BOOKER>> Thanks for that, Bernie. I want to thank you all for joining us for this segment. I mean this sincerely. It was an honor to run against you. And it is an even greater honor to stand with you in support of Joe Biden and kamala Harris. MICHAEL BLOOMBERG 222057 BLOOMBERG>> Good evening. I've never been much for partisan politics. I have supported Democrats, Republicans, and independents. Hell, I've actually been a Democrat, Republican and independent. It's all about people. And the two people running for president couldn't be more different. One believes in facts. One does not. One listens to experts. The other thinks he knows everything. 222124 One looks forward and sees strength in America's diversity. The other looks backwards and sees immigrants as enemies and white supremacists as allies. Here is another difference. One has proven he knows how to handle a crisis by helping to lead the economic turn-around after the 2008 recession, while the other has not only failed to lead, he has made the current crisis much worse. 222151 When confronted with the biggest calamity any president has faced in the modern era, Donald Trump spent the year down playing the threat, ignoring science and recommending quack cures which let covid-19 spread much faster than it should have, leaving hundreds of thousands needlessly sick or dead. He has failed the American people catastrophically. Four years ago, I came before this very convention and said, new yorkers know a con when we see one. But tonight I'm not asking you to vote against Donald Trump because he's a bad guy. 222227 I'm urging you to vote against him because he's done a bad job. Today, unemployment is at historic highs and small businesses are struggling just to survive. It didn't have to be this way. Before I ran for mayor, I spent 20 years running a business I started from scratch, so I want to ask small business owners and their employees one question. And it's a question for everyone. 222255 Would you rehire or work for someone who ran your business into the ground? And who always does what's best for him or her even when it hurts the company? And whose reckless decisions put you in danger? And who spends more time tweeting than working? If the answer is no, why the hell would we ever rehire Donald Trump for another four years? Trump says we should vote for him because he's a great businessman. 222324 Really? He drove his companies into bankruptcy six times, always leaving behind customers and contractors who were cheated and swindled and stopped doing business with him. Well this time, all of us are paying the price, and we can't let him get away with it again. Donald says we should vote for him because the economy was great before the virus. Huh? Biden and Obama created more jobs over their last three years than the Trump administration did over their first three. 222356 And economic growth was higher under Biden and Obama than under Trump. In fact, while Biden helped save one million auto industry jobs, Trump has lost 250,000 manufacturing jobs. So when Trump says he wants to make America great again, he's making a pretty good case for Joe Biden. Look, our goal shouldn't be to bring back the pandemic economy. It should be, as Joe says, to build it back better. 222426 Joe's economic plan will create clean energy jobs that help fight another crisis that Trump is ignoring, climate change. And Joe will rebuild our crumbling roads and bridges, something Trump has incessantly talked about doing. But in the last three and a half years, he hasn't done anything. What a joke. And let me tell you a little secret. 222447 Donald Trump's economic plan was to give a huge tax cut to guys like me who didn't need it and then lie about it to everyone else. Well, Joe will roll back that tax cut that I got so we can fund things our whole country needs, like training for adults who have lost jobs and making college more affordable and investing in American research and development so that the products of tomorrow are made today by American workers. You know, growing up I was taught to believe that America is the greatest country in the world, not because we won the second World War but because of why we fought it, for freedom, democracy and equality. 222532 My favorite childhood book was called Johnny Tremain, about a Boston boy that joins the sons of liberty at the dawn of the American revolution. At the end of the book, Johnny stands on Lexington commons and sees a nation that is, quote, â?ogreen with spring, dreaming of the future.â?? That's the America I know and love. 222554 And that's the America we are in danger of losing under this president. So let's put an end to this whole sorry chapter in American history and elect leaders who will bring integrity and stability, sanity and competence back to the white house. Joe and kamala, go get him for all of us. 222617 LOUIS-DREYFUS>>> We can help you find the best and safest way to vote in your state. Simply text â?ovoteâ?? to 30330 to learn more. 30330. It's actually not that hard to remember. Watch: Person, woman, man, camera, TV, 30330. Anyone can do it. I want to introduce you now to a young man who vice president Biden met earlier this year in New Hampshire and helped to find his voice. Say hello to Braden Harrington. 222655 HARRINGTON>> Hi. My name is Braden Harrington and I'm 13 years old. And without Joe Biden I wouldn't be talking to you today. About a few months ago I met him in New Hampshire. He told me that we were members of the same club. We stutter. It was really amazing to hear that someone like me became vice president. He told me about a book of poems by Yates he would read out loud to practice. 222737 He showed me how he marks his addresses to make it easier to say out loud. So I did the same thing today. And now I'm here talking to you today about the future, about our future. My family often says when the world feels better before talking about something normal like going to the movies. 222813 We all want the world to feel better. We need the world to feel better. I'm just a regular kid, and in the short amount of time, Joe Biden made me feel more confident about something that's bothered me my whole life. Joe Biden cared. Imagine what he could do for all of us. 222835 Kids like me are counting on you to elect someone we can all look up to, someone who cares, someone who will make our country and the world feel better. We're counting on you to elect Joe Biden. âTªâTªâTªâTª Rise up âTªâTªâTªâTª come on, rise up. 222857 >> The first time I met Joe, I was reading at my synagogue. And I had to do a funeral service and a shivah. And towards the end of the service, the door opens up, and this person comes up and this person who was much younger than these octogenarians who were there walked in the room. It was our U.S. Senator, Joe Biden. He was just very respectful and he stayed in the back. 222920 And his head was bowed in reverence. And at the end, I said, senator Biden, why are you here? Because how does a nice Irish Ctholic boy know from shivah. And what he said was just so lovely. He said, this dear lady gave $18 to my campaign from the very first time I started in 1972. So he wanted to show his respects by saying thank you. And that just blew me away. âTªâTªâTªâTª Riseup. 222954 >> I think you guys might have thought we were smaller. >> Granddaughter interview take one. >> No, no. This is good. 223002 >> Okay. So what do I know about your grandfather? >> He's always eating ice cream. Usually it is like vanilla. >> With chocolate sprinkles. >> Vanilla on a regular night. >> No, no chocolate chip. 223019 >> The Breyers that have half chocolate, half vanilla. >> He likes ice cream in hidden ways. >> Eating it like in the freezer so that like my grandma doesn't see. 223031 >> He like hides it. >> How often does he call you? >> Like every day. >> Yeah, every day. 223035 >> Like if we don't talk to him for like a day -- >> He'll ask what's wrong. >> Yeah. >> Heâ?Tll think weâ?Tre like not alive. >> He always calls with the same energy even after he's just done 15 interviews in a row. >> Hi, pop. I was just talking about you. 223049 >> I don't necessarily pick up every day. But I have a lot of voicemails. >> He will pick up our calls no matter where he is. He'd be like on stage giving a speech and we'd call him and he'd be like, what's wrong? Is everything good? >> What does the word "Family" mean to you? >> It is a lot of time together. It is like we've grown up together. He's made sure that every single tradition, every holiday we're all together. I don't think that there's been any decision no matter how big or small that we haven't decided as a family. 223125 >> Pop told us that this election would be totally different from any other election ever. He was worried how it would affect his kids. >> Whether or not we wanted to go through another campaign and be scrutinized by the press. 223138 >> There had been talks of a big meeting coming. >> It's normally called by the parents, I would say. But this time it was called by me. >> I came down from Pen and Maizy came up from D.C., and my cousins lived down the road. He thought we were calling a meeting sort of to, like, discuss, you know, whether or not we wanted him to, but really we were calling it to be like, get in that race right now. 223200 >> We just knew that he had to run and we weren't going to take no as an answer. >> At the end of the day, I think we're all very happy we had that meeting. BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> All right. Well, when you get back there, give me a call to tell me how the whole thing went, okay? >> Okay, I will. 223216 BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> I love you, baby. >> I love you, too. AYESHA CURRY>> We want to ensure that our kids live in a nation that is safe, happy, healthy and fair,f and so this election. STEPH CURRY>> We're voting for Joe Biden. Let's have a conversation with these kids. 223232 >> Let's do it. So let's jump right in, shall we. >> What does jump in mean? >> Oh, boy. >> Mommy, I can't be quiet. AYESHA CURRY>> I don't want you to be quiet. You deserve to speak and say whatever it is that comes to your mind in this moment right now. 223253 Every election is important. This upcoming election is especially important because, one, because the social injustices right now, racial inequality, but also because we have children. >> Excuse me, mommy? AYESHA CURRY>> Yes. >> I need to go to the bathroom. AYESHA CURRY>> Okay. STEPHEN CURRY>> You want to go right now? 223310 STEPHEN CURRY>> Do you know where the president lives? >> In the white house. >> Washington, D.C. STEPHEN CURRY>> Do you know what the president's job is? >> To tell what happened to the world. STEPHEN CURRY>> That's good. That's a good one. 223326 >> Keep the environment safe. STEPHEN CURRY>> That is correct, as we say. That is correct. >> Correct! AYESHA CURRY>> If you could create the ideal person lead this country, what characteristics would that person have? >> A very kind personality. >> What would you like to see taken care of? >> I would like to see him taking care of the Earth and the people. STEPHEN CURRY>> So, girls, it is 2020 and the election is coming up in November, do you know who is running for president? >> Joe Biden. >> Yeah. >> And -- AYESHA CURRY>> Exactly. That's it. This video is over. STEPHEN CURRY>> What would you say if you knew that Joe Biden was going to have a woman as his vice president? >> Surprised and like happy. STEPHEN CURRY>> Why? >> There is like not a lot of women like being president and helping alongside the president. 223439 STEPH CURRY>> Uh-huh. How important do you think your faith is in the way that you live your life? >> Really big because I'm grateful for all the things that I have and that I love my family. 223454 AYESHA CURRY>> And with that said, everyone, we really thank you, one, for listening to this very candid conversation with our daughters and we just want to encourage you to truly do your research and think about your own homes and what you'd like to see projected out into the world. And the right direction is making sure that you vote this election for Biden. 223522 AYESHA CURRY>> Whatever you do, please vote. Every vote counts. Just remember that. Are you going to dance out? LOUIS-DREYFUS>>> Here's the big question. How much of your time and energy are you willing to devote to elect Joe Biden? Here's my answer. I'm going all in. Look, elections can break your heart. 223547 But sometimes they can make you sing from the mountain tops, and this year we're going to sing. This year we're going to elect a president who's honest, experienced and intelligent, a president who actually believes in the rule of law, who will restore dignity and normalcy to the white house and the soul of this nation. And, boy, won't that be something? One of my favorite things Joe Biden says is that you can succeed in life without sacrificing your ideals or your commitment to family. So who better to introduce our nominee, Joe Biden, than his children. 223620 HUNTER BIDEN>> I'm hunter Biden. ASHLEY BIDEN>> And I'm Ashley Biden. HUNTER BIDEN>> Joe Biden is our dad. ASHLEY BIDEN>> And beau is our brother. HUNTER BIDEN>> We want to tell you what kind of president our dad will be. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He will be tough. HUNTER BIDEN>> And honest. ASHLEY BIDEN>> Caring and principled. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll listen. He will be there when you need him. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll tell you the truth even when you don't want to hear it. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll never let you down. 223650 ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll be rock steady. HUNTER BIDEN>> The strongest shoulder you can ever lean on. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll beam with pride every time you succeed. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll make your grandkids feel that what they've got to say matters. 223703 ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll treat everyone with respect no matter who you are. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll get up no matter how many times he's been knocked down. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll be the worst enemy any bully ever saw. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll be the best friend you have ever had. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll love you with all of his heart. HUNTER BIDEN>> And if you give him your cell phone number. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He's going to call it. 223721 HUNTER BIDEN>> How do we know? ASHLEY BIDEN>> Because he's been that way our whole lives. HUNTER BIDEN>> He's been a great father. ASHLEY BIDEN>> And we think he'll be a great president. HUNTER BIDEN>> Beau isn't with us any longer. ASHLEY BIDEN>> But he is still very much alive in our hearts and we can still hear his strong voice. HUNTER BIDEN>> Just like it was yesterday. ASHLEY BIDEN>> Just like it was yesterday. 223744 HUNTER BIDEN>> In 2008 and 2012, he introduced our dad at those conventions. ASHLEY BIDEN>> And if he was here, we're pretty sure we'd know what he'd say. HUNTER BIDEN>> So before we show you a film about our dad's journey, we wanted to give Beau the last word. Beau. ASHLEY BIDEN>> Beau. Take it away. 223805 BEAU BIDEN>> In moments both public and private, he's the father I have always known, the grandfather my children love and adore, my father, my hero, Joe Biden. [ Applause ] VIDEO 223846 >> Our lives have been turned upside down, shattered and shaken. But the American story has had moments like this before. And he was there answering the call. OBAMA (ON VIDEO)>> When we came into office in 2009, we were going through what was then the worst financial and economic crisis since the great depression. >> The economy was hemorrhaging hundreds of thousands of jobs a week. People were losing their homes to foreclosure. The financial system was in tatters. Auto sales had dropped to near zero levels. 223932 >> The auto companies face bankruptcy. And many said, let them fail. But Joe remembered his father and what it meant to lose a job. The Finnegans and Bidens were Irish catholic. Joe was their first. And then his sister Valerie. 22405 VALERIE BIDEN-OWENS (ON VIDEO)>> From the moment I opened my eyes, my big brother was there. The thing that was most important was family and family and family. >> As the post-war boom faded, Joe's father struggled to find work in Scranton. But 140 miles south, there was a job cleaning boilers in Wilmington. 224031 VALERIE BIDEN-OWENS (ON VIDEO)>> There was a long stairway up to the second floor. Dad went up to Joey in our bedroom and said, Joey, you got to be a big boy. >> For the first time, Joe saw the heavy burden on a father, and it was a lesson he would never forget. 224051 VALERIE BIDEN-OWENS (ON VIDEO)>> The job is a lot more than a paycheck. It is about dignity. >> The country was losing tens of thousands of jobs a day. And they needed three votes to pass the economic rescue package. 224104 >> Joe Biden was handed the task of going to get those three Republican votes. >> Joe returned to the place where he had been so effective. >> Passionate argument, a sympathetic listening, a willingness to make adjustments and accommodations to bring people onboard. 224122 >> When the law finally passed, the president tapped his partner to run the program. Joe tracked every dollar, calling mayors and governors. >> Talking to him on the phone one-on-one. He gave all of them his cell phone. 224138 CECILIA MUNOZ (VO)>> And I watched him bring his heart to that job. It matters that you have in your mind the family that you are trying to reach, the neighborhood that you are trying to reach, the people whose lives are affected by what you do. >> The skills that had made him so effective had not come easy. When he entered school, there was a problem. Joe had a stutter. JOE BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> And it's mortifying. It allows that child to become an object of ridicule. 224209 >> When his teacher mimicked him and Joe ran home from school, his mother drove him back. JOE BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Did you say to my son, Mr. B -- Biden. The nun said, I was just trying to make a point. My mother stood up, all 5'2" of her. â?oIf you ever talk to my son like that again, I'll come back and rip that damn bonnet off your head, do you understand me? Joey, go back to class.â?? 224232 >> Joe resolved to overcome his stutters. BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Some letters are harder than others. And I used to get up at night and go stand in front of the mirror with a flashlight and practice. She'd make me look her in the eye, look at me. Remember, Joey, you are the smartest boy in that class. Nobody is better than you, Joey. From having to deal with stuttering, it gave me insight into other people's pain, other people's suffering. 224304 >> At 19, Joe sought out a summer job that few of his peers considered taking. >> He was a lifeguard along with the black lifeguards. That's when I first seen Joe. And we became friends. BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> It was one of the best things I have ever done, because it gave me a sense that we really didn't know one another. 224322 >> After Martin Luther King Jr. Was assassinated, riots broke in Wilmington, and the National Guard stayed for almost a year. BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> I quit the law firm and asked for a job to become a public defender. That's what sort of got me involved in politics. 224343 >> Jay Caleb Boggs was a popular war hero in a solidly Republican state, and few took Joe's campaign seriously. In Delaware, the democratic party was nonfunctional. When it got time to put up a candidate, they didn't want to touch him. This young upstar, Joe Biden, who had a lot of ideas and no money, no influence, the party said, okay, well then go ahead, Biden, give it a whirl. 224412 BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> That's all I can ask. If you like what you see, help me out. If not, go for the other fellow. >> You know, we have a coffee and we come out of that, weâ?Td have five more coffees. He was very articulate on the issues. He brought people to say not just that well, I agree with what you are doing, but you know, what can I do to help? >> Delaware is the first state. J. Caleb Boggs is the incumbent Republican being challenged by Joseph Biden. Biden is a Democrat who is 29 years of age. >> But exhilaration soon turned to tragedy. >> It was clear he had decided that I'm not going to be a senator, that the boys need me too much. 224453 BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> I was prepared to walk away in 1973. But men like Ted Kennedy, and Mike Mansfield, and Hubert Humphrey and Fritz Holings, Dan Owen(?), they convinced me to stay, to stay six months, Joe. Do you remember, Ted? To stay six months. 224513 >> He couldnâ?Tt allow the suffering to debilitate him. Just like he couldn't allow the stuttering to define him. That's the backbone. There is something bigger than Joe's suffering. >> The senate turned out to be a wonderful place for him. He had a real gift for bringing people together. 224543 >> The three of them had a bond that was forged in sorrow and expanded into joy when Jill entered. JILL BIDEN (VO) >>They had built this beautiful family, this circle of trust. And then the extra gift of Ashley. ASHLEY BIDEN (VO)>> Growing up it was full of adventure, laughter. HUNTER BIDEN (VO)>> We do everything as a family and weâ?Tve always done everything as a family. JILL BIDEN (VO) >> He was always a good, loving father. I mean, there is nothing more important to Joe than his children. 224619 BEAU BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Itâ?Ts hard to explain how ever present he was in our lives. You don't have to guess what my dad believes. The great benefit of being my father is that he doesn't have to contort himself into different people at different times. >> Beau was going to do fine things. I mean, he had it all. And then he got sick. The whole world tilted and it felt like we were all falling off. 224649 >> Once again, Joe faced the unimaginable. JOE BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> My mother, she said, â?obravery resides in every heart. And some day it will be summoned.â?? 224708 >> The way he survived losing my mom and my sister and then losing my brother is understanding that you have to have purpose. JOE BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Every day I get up and I ask myself, I hope he's proud of me because that's the thing that makes me move on. >> From his time in the senate and then the white house Joe always found a way forward, forging unlikely friendships and alliances and time after time he made progress possible. 224744 And always holding in his heart the struggles of his family and every family. Always fighting to make his country whole. CECILIA MUNOZ (VO) >> It's a very rare quality to bring your empathy skills to the process of governing. Joe Biden never forgets that that's the point of moving the wheels of government. BERNIE SANDERS (VO) >> He will keep his word. He will reach out and hear what other people have to say. BARACK OBAMA (ON VIDEO)>> To have somebody who believes in what's best in us, somebody like Joe Biden who actually believes in the American idea, that's the kind of person who I want in the white house. JOE BIDEN 224835 BIDEN>>> Good evening. Ella baker, a giant of the civil l rights movement left us with this wisdom: Give people light and they will find the way. Give people light. Those are words for our time. The current president has cloaked America in darkness for much too long. 224859 Too much anger, too much fear, too much division. Here and now I give you my word. If you entrust me with the presidency, I will draw on the best of us, not the worst. I will be an ally of the light, not the darkness. It is time for us, for we, the people, to come together. And make no mistake, united we can and will overcome this season of darkness in America. 224932 We will choose hope over fear, facts over fiction, fairness over privilege. I'm a proud Democrat and I will be proud to carry the banner of our party into the general election. 224946 So itâ?Ts with great honor and humility, I accept this nomination for president of the United States of America. But while I'll be a democratic candidate, I will be an American president. I'll work hard for those who didn't support me, as hard for them as I did for those who did vote for me. 225006 That's the job of a president, to represent all of us, not just our base or our party. This is not a partisan moment. This must be an American moment. Itâ?Ts a moment that calls for hope and light and love, hope for our future, light to see our way forward and love for one another. America isn't just a collection of clashing interests, of red states or blue states. We're so much bigger than that, weâ?Tre so much better than that. 225038 You know, nearly a century ago, Franklin Roosevelt pledged the new deal in a time of massive unemployment, uncertainty, and fear, stricken by disease, stricken by a virus, FDR insisted that he would recover and prevail, and he believed America could as well. And he did and we can as well. This campaign isn't just about winning votes. It's about winning the heart and, yes, the soul of America, winning it for the generous among us, not the selfish. 225114 Winning it for workers who keep this country going, not just the privileged few at the time. Winning it for those communities who have known the injustice of a knee on the neck, for all the young people who have known only America being rising inequity and shrinking opportunity. They deserve the experience of America's promise. 225140 They deserve to experience it in full. You know, no generation ever knows what history will ask of it. All we can ever know is whether we're ready when that moment arrives. And now history has delivered us to one of the most difficult moments America's ever faced. Four, four historic crises all at the same time, a perfect storm. 225206 The worst pandemic in over a hundred years, the worst economic crisis since the great depression, the most compelling call for racial justice since the 60s and the undeniable realities and just the accelerating threats of climate change. So the question for us is simple: are we ready? I believe we are. 225230 We must be. You know, all elections are important. But we know in our bones this one is more consequential. As many have said, America is at an inflexion point, a time of real peril but also extraordinary possibilities. We can choose a path of becoming angrier, less hopeful, more divided, a path of shadow and suspicion or we can choose a different path, and together, take this chance to heal, to reform, to unite. 225304 A path of hope and light. This is a life-changing election. This will determine what America's going to look like for a long, long time. Character is on the ballot. Compassion is on the ballot. Decency, science, democracy. They're all on the ballot. Who we are as a nation, what we stand for, and most importantly, who we want to be, that's all on the ballot. And the choice could not be more clear. No rhetoric is needed. 225338 Just judge this president on the facts. 5 million Americans infected by covid-19. More than 170,000 Americans have died. By far the worst performance of any nation on Earth. More than 50 million people have filed for unemployment this year. More than 10 million people are going to lose their health insurance this year. Nearly 1 in 6 small businesses have closed this year. And this president if he's re-elected you know what will happen. Cases and deaths will remain far too high. More mom and pop businesses will close their doors and this time for good. 225421 Working families will struggle to get by. And yet the wealthiest 1% will get tens of billions of dollars in new tax breaks. And the assault on the Affordable Care Act will continue until it's destroyed, taking insurance away from more than 20 million people, including more than 15 million people on medicaid. And getting rid of the protections that president Obama worked so hard to get past for people who have -- 100 million more people who have pre-existing conditions. 225457 And speaking of president Obama, a man I was honored to serve alongside for 8 years as vice president, let me take this moment to say something we don't say nearly enough. Thank you, Mr. President. You were a great president. A president our children could and did look up to. No one's going to say that about the current occupant of the white house. 225522 What we know about this president is if he's given four more years, heâ?Tll be what he's been for the last 4 years. A president who takes no responsibility, refuses to lead, blames others, cozies up to dictators and fans the flames of hate and division. He'll wake up every day believing the job is all about him, never about you. Is that the America you want for you, your family, your children? 225551 I see a different America. One that's generous and strong, selfless and humble. It's an America we can rebuild together. havAs president, the first step I will take will be to get control of the virus that has ruined so many lives, because I understand something this president hasn't from the beginning, we will never get our economy back on track. 225615 We will never get our kids safely back in school. We will never have our lives back. Until we deal with this virus. The tragedy of where we are today is it didn't e to be this bad. Just look around. It's not this bad in Canada or Europe or Japan or almost anywhere else in the world. And the president keeps telling us the virus is going to disappear. He keeps waiting for a miracle. 225644 Well, I have news for him. No miracle is coming. We lead the world to confirm cases. We lead the world in deaths. Our economy's in tatters, with black, Latino, asian-american, native-american communities bearing the brunt of it. And after all this time the president still does not have a plan. Well, I do. If I'm your president on day one we'll implement the national strategy I've been laying out since March. 225719 We'll develop and deploy rapid tests with results available immediately. We'll make the medical supplies and protective equipment that our country needs. We'll make them here in America, so we will never again be at the mercy of China or other foreign countries in order to protect our own people. We'll make sure our schools have the resources they need to be open, safe and effective. We'll put politics aside. 225749 We'll take the muzzle off our experts so the public gets the information they need and deserve, honest, unvarnished truth. They can handle it. We'll have a national mandate to wear masks not as a burden but as a patriotic duty to protect one another. In short, we'll do what we should have done from the very beginning. Our current president has failed in his most basic duty to the nation. He's failed to protect us. 225823 He's failed to protect America. And my fellow Americans, that is unforgivable. As president, I'll make you a promise. I'll protect America, I will defend us from every attack, seen and unseen, always, without exception, every time. 225843 Look, I understand. I understand how hard it is to have any hope right now. On this summer night let me take a moment to speak to those of you who have lost the most. I have some idea how it feels to lose someone you love. I know that deep black hole that opens up in the middle of your chest and you feel like you're being sucked into it. I know how mean, cruel, and unfair life can be sometimes. 225913 But I've learned two things. First, your loved one may have left this Earth, but they'll never leave your heart. They'll always be with you. You'll always hear them. And second, I found the best way through pain and loss and grief is to find purpose. As god's children each of us have a purpose in our lives. We have a great purpose as a nation to open the doors of opportunity to all Americans, to save our democracy, to be a light to the world once again, and finally to live up to and make real the words written in the sacred documents that founded this nation. 230000 That all men and women are created equal. Endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights, among them life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. You know, my dad was an honorable, decent man. He got knocked down a few time pretty hard, but he always got back up. He worked hard, and he built a great middle class life for our family. 230027 He used to say, â?oJoey, I don't expect the government to solve my problems but I sure as hell expect them the understand them.â?? And then heâ?Td say, â?oJoey, a job is a lot more than a paycheck. It's about your dignity. It's about respect. It's about your place in the community. It's about being able to look your kid in the eye and say, honey, it's going to be okay and mean it.â?? I've never forgotten those lessons. 230056 That's why my economic plan is all about jobs, dignity, respect, and community. Together, we can and will rebuild our economy. And when we do, we'll not only build back, we'll build back better. With modern roads, bridges, highways, broadband, ports and airports as a new foundation for economic growth, with pipes that transport clean water to every community. With 5 million new manufacturing and technology jobs so the future is made in America. 230130 With a health care system that lowers premiums, deductibles, drug prices. By building on the affordable care act he's trying to rip away. With an education system that trains our people for the best jobs of the 21st century. There's not a single thing American workers can't do, and where cost doesn't prevent young people from going to college and student debt doesn't crush them when they get out. With a child care and elder care system that makes it possible for parents to go to work and for the elderly to stay in their homes with dignity. 230208 With an immigration system that powers our economy and reflects our values, and with newly empowered labor unions. They're the ones that built the middle class. With equal pay for women, with rising wages you can raise a child on, a family on. And yes, we're going to do more than praise our essential workers. We're finally going to pay them. Pay them. 230238 We can and we will deal with climate change. It's not only a crisis, it's an enormous opportunity. An opportunity for America to lead the world in clean energy and create millions of new good paying jobs in the process. 230255 And we can pay for these investments by ending loopholes -- unnecessary loopholes and the president's $1.3 trillion tax give away to the wealthiest 1% and some of America's biggest, most profitable corporations, some of which do not pay any tax at all. Because we don't need a tax code that rewards wealth more than it rewards work. 230319 I'm not looking to punish anyone. Far from it. But it's long pastime the wealthiest people and the biggest corporations in this country paid their fair share. And for our seniors, social security is a sacred obligation, a sacred promise made. They paid for. 230343 The current president is threatening to break that promise. He's proposing to eliminate a tax that pays for almost half the social security without any way of making up for that lost revenue, resulting in cuts. I will not let that happen. If I'm your president, weâ?Tre gonna protect social and medicare. You have my word. One of the most powerful voices we hear in the country today is from our young people. They're speaking to the inequity and injustice that has grown up in America. Economic injustice, racial injustice, environmental injustice. 230426 I hear their voices. If you listen, you can hear them, too. And whether there's an existential threat posed by climate change, the daily fear of being gunned down in school, or the inability to get started in your first job, it will be the work of the next president to restore the promise of America to everyone. And I'm not going to have to do it alone because I'll have a great vice president at my side. 230455 Senator Kamala Harris, she's a powerful voice for this nation. Her story is the American story. She knows about all the obstacles thrown in the way of so many in our country, women, black women, black Americans, south asian-americans, immigrants, the left out and the left behind. But she's overcome every obstacle she's ever faced. No one's been tougher on the big banks and the gun lobby. 230527 No one's been tough in calling out the current administration for its extremism, its failure to follow the law, it's failure to simply tell the truth. Kamala and I both draw from our families. Thatâ?Ts where we get our strength. For Kamala, it's Doug and their families. For me, it's Jill and ours. I've said many times, no man deserves one great love in his life, let alone two, but I've known two. 230557 After losing my first wife in that car accident, Jill came into my life. She put our family back together. She's an educator, a mom, a military mom, an unstoppable force. If she puts her mind to it, just get out of the way. She's going to get it done. She was a great second lady, and I know she'll make a great first lady for this nation. She loves this country so much. And I'll always have the strength that can only come from family. 230630 Hunter, Ashley, all our grandchildren, my brothers, my sister. They give my courage, they lift me up. While he's no longer with us, Beau inspires me every day. Beau served our nation in uniform. A year in Iraq, a decorated Iraqi war veteran. I take very personally and I have the profound responsibility of serving as commander in chief. 230703 I'll be a president that will stand with our allies and friends and make it clear to our adversaries the days of cozying up to dictators is over. Under president Biden, America will not turn a blind eye to Russian bounties on the heads of American soldiers. Nor will I put up with foreign interference in our most sacred democratic exercise: voting. And I'll always stand for our values of human rights and dignity. 230737 I'll work in common purpose for a more secure, peaceful and prosperous world. History -- history has thrust one more urgent task on us. Will we be the generation that finally wipes out the stain of racism from our national character? I believe we're up to it. I believe we're ready. 230804 Just a week ago yesterday was the third anniversary of the events in Charlottesville. Close your eyes, remember what you saw on television. Rememer seeing those neo-nazis and klansman and white supremacists coming out of fields with lighted torches, veins bulging spewing the same anti-semitic bile heard across Europe in the '30s. 230829 Remember the violent clash that ensued between those spreading hate and those with the courage to stand against it. And remember what the president said when asked? He said there were, quote, â?overy fine people on both sides.â?? That was a wake up call for us as a country and for me a call to action. At that moment I knew I'd have to run. My father taught us that silence was complicity, and I can never remain silent or complicit. 230908 At the time I said we were in a battle for the soul of this nation, and we are. You know, one of the most important conversations I've had this entire campaign, it was with someone who was much too young to vote. I met with 6-year-old Gianna Floyd the day before her daddy, George Floyd was laid to rest. She's an incredible little girl. 230935 And Iâ?Tll never forget it. When I leaned down to speak to her, she looked in my eyes and she said, and I quote, â?odaddy changed the world. Daddy, changed the world.â?? Her words burrowed deep into my heart. Maybe George Floyd's murder was a breaking point. Maybe John Lewis' passing the inspiration, but however it's come to be, however it's happened, America's ready, in John's words, to lay down, quote, â?othe heavy burden of hate at last,â?? and then the hard work of rooting out our systemic racism. 231020 You know, American history tells us that it has been in our darkest moments that we've made our greatest progress, that we found the light. In this dark moment I believe we're poised to make great progress again, that we can find the light once more. You know, many people have heard me say this but I've always believed you can define America in one word, possibilities. The defining feature of America -- everything is possible. 231057 That in America everyone, and I mean everyone, should be given an opportunity to go as far as their dreams and god given ability will take them. We can never lose that. In times as challenging as these I believe there's only one way forward: as a united America. A united America. United in our pursuit of a more perfect union. United in our dreams of a better future for us and for our children. 231128 United in our determination to make the coming years bright. Are you ready? I believe we are. This is a great nation. We're a good and decent people. For lord's sake, this is the United States of America. There's never been anything we've been unable to accomplish when we've done it together. 231153 The Irish poet Seamus Heaney once wrote â?ohistory says don't hope on this side of the grave but then once in a lifetime, the longed for tidal wave of justice can rise up and hope and history rhyme.â?? This is our moment to make hope and history rhyme with passion and purpose. Let us begin, you and I together, one nation under god, united in our love for America, united in our love for each other. 231228 For love is more powerful than hate. Hope is more powerful than fear, and light is more powerful than dark. This is our moment. This is our mission. May history be able to say that the end of this chapter of American darkness begin here tonight as love and hope and light join in the battle for the soul of the nation. And this is a battle we will win, and we'll do it together. I promise you. Thank you and may god bless you, and may god protect our troops. Goodnight. 231313 [JILL BIDEN ENTERS] 231337 {KAMALA HARRIS AND DOUG EMHOFF ENTER] 231605 [JOE BIDEN AND JILL BIDEN WALKING] 231713 [JOE BIDEN AND JILL WALKING ONTO OUTDOOR STAGE, WAVING] 231737 [JOE, JILL, KAMALA, AND DOUG WAVING ON OUTSIDE STAGE] 231748 [FIREWORKS]

5540 DNC NATIONAL CONVENTION MILWAUKEE WI POOL SWITCHED CLEAN 08202020 220000 2020 At 8:46 p.m.ET Rep. Bennie Thompson called the convention to order. The night kicked off with a highlight reel of speeches from the week, including but not limited to Barack and Michelle Obama, Kamala Harris, the family of George Floyd, Dr. Jill Biden. DNC Chairman Tom Perez gave a short address ahead of the 9 o'clock hour, discussing the unconventional nature of this cycle's nominating celebration and the input provided to the DNC programming from voters around the country. [8:50:04 PM] "If the literal meaning of the word convention has to do with coming together, then what has brought us together this year, isn't partisanship, it's purpose," Perez said. His introduction speech veered into Biden's dedication to cancer research, after his son Beau died of brain cancer at age 46. After we saw a short video featuring Amanda Litman, who had a personal experience with Biden while she struggled with a family member with cancer. The feed took us back to Perez, who made a plea with the nation to weigh their morals as they begin to request and cast their ballots in the coming weeks. [8:56:08 PM] "Next week, it will be the Republican party's turn to hold their convention. On behalf of their speakers and staff, I hope their organizers will take safety as seriously as we have. And then it will be up to you, America. You'll have heard from two very different candidates for president. You'll be able to dig into the details of their respective plans for solving the challenges we face and decide which plan you think will work for you and your family. But the choice this year is deeper than that. No matter what you think about Donald Trump or Joe Biden, no matter which matter you belong to, or whether you belong to any party at all, your job in this election is to decide what kind of movement is capable of being the vehicle for the change we need." Finally, we saw our official introduction from former 2020er and businessman Andrew Yang. 210543: "We are in a deep, dark hole, and we need leaders who will help us dig out. I know many politicians promise and then fail to deliver." "But we must give this country a chance to recoverâ?"and recovery is only possible with a change of leadership and new ideas. Bold and innovative policies that will get help into your hands in the midst of this crisis are possibleâ?"but we need your help to turn the page for our country in 75 days. "I have gotten to know both Joe and Kamala on the trail over the past year â?"the way you really get to know a person when the cameras are off, the crowds are gone, and itâ?Ts just you and them. They understand the problems we face. They are parents and patriots who want the best for our country. And if we give them the chance, they will fight for us and our families every single day," he said. Julia Louis-Dreyfus will be tonight's emcee. â?<Delaware Sen. Chris Coons followed tonight's prayer with an address on Biden's deep faith. 211510: "His faith is strong and it's personal and private. For Joe, faith isn't a prop or a political tool. I've known Joe about 30 years and I've seen his faith in action. Joe knows the power of prayer, and I've seen him in moments of joy and triumph, of loss and despair, turn to God for strength. Joe's comforted me in my toughest moments, as he has so many others. I'll never forget how Joe took the time to offer me words of comfort as my father lay in hospice. Time and again, I've seen him stop everything and listen, really listen to someone who needs a shoulder to cry on or a partner in prayer. That compassion, that empathy is part of his character. 21171: "Joe's always known this race is a battle for the soul of our country, and he's right. Joe believes. He believes in both the greatness and the goodness of this country. He believes in us and in what we can do together." Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms then spoke on the importance of the vote in November, asking voters to vote early ahead of her official address. She encouraged Americans to get involved in the memory of Congressman Lewis-- saying "every single person" in the Civil Rights movement mattered. 212115: "He walked gently amongst usâ?"not as a distant icon, but as a God-fearing man, doing what he could do to fulfill the as-yet unfulfilled promise of America. People often think they canâ?Tt make a difference like our civil rights icons, but every person in the movement matteredâ?"those who made the sandwiches, swept the church floors, stuffed the envelopes. They, too, changed America. And so can we! The baton has now been passed to each of us. We have cried out for justice, we have gathered in our streets to demand change, and now, we must pass on the gift that John Lewis sacrificed to give us, we must register, and we must vote." She called for the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in a chance for Americans to use their voice. 212325: "We know how important it is that we elect real leaders, like Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. People of honor and integrity, who hold justice close to their hearts and believe that the lives of my four black children matter. In the words of womanist poet Audre Lorde, 'Your silence will not protect you.' Congressman Lewis would not be silenced, and neither can we." â?<We saw a video tribute to civil rights icon and the late Congressman John Lewis (started at 212429), followed by a performance by John Legend and Common (212914). Historian and author Jon Meacham gave an address on the American soul-- hinting to Biden's "Battle for the soul of the nation" through the lens of this country's history. 213529: "This is a grave moment in America: A deadly virus is ravaging us; our jobs are evaporating; our faith in the things that bind us together is fraying, for our democracy is under assault from an incumbent more interested in himself than he is in the rest of us. Extremism, nativism, isolationism, and a lack of economic opportunity for working people are all preventing us from realizing our nationâ?Ts promise. Humankind has long viewed the soul as the vital center, the core, the essence of existence. The soul is what makes us, us. In its finest hours Americaâ?Ts soul has been animated by the proposition that we are all created equal, and by the imperative to ensure that we are treated equally. Yet America is a mix of light and shadow." Meacham advocated for Biden with an emphasis on empathy and love. 213900: "Bending that arc requires all of us. It requires we, the people. And it requires a president of the United States with empathy, grace, a big heart, and an open mind. Joe Biden will be such a president. With our voices and our votes, let us now write the next chapter of the American story. One of hope, of love, of justice. If we do so, we might just save our country and our souls." We then heard from New Mexico Congresswoman Deb Haaland, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress. Her address comes after the criticism toward the DNC for a lack of native voice in this week's programming. Haaland again touched on themes of the importance of the vote, saying "voting is sacred; my people know that." 214040: "I stand here today, a proud 35th generation New Mexican, and one of the first Native American women ever elected to Congress. I'm a symbol of our resilience as the embodiment of America's progress as a nation. I know we can't take our democracy for granted, especially now, as people are dying, as our land is abused, as our Constitution is under attack. We must work for it by getting involved, by registering voters, by voting. Voting is sacred; my people know that. We weren't universally granted the right to vote until 1962, and that fundamental right is more important than ever. Whether your ancestors have been here for hundreds of years or you're a new citizen, know this: whether we vote, and how we vote will determine if our nation's promise of social, racial, and environmental justice will outlast us." After Haaland's speech on the importance of the vote, we heard from Democratic the secretaries of state of California, Alex Padilla, and Michigan, Jocelyn Benson. The two spoke on the safety and security of vote-by-mail and the president's utilization of the system, despite his false attacks on the integrity of the process. 214458: ALEX PADILLA: So letâ?Ts talk about this election. Despite what he says, Donald Trump canâ?Tt cancel it. But he and Republicans are making it too hard for so many to cast their ballots. And now heâ?Ts attacking vote-by-mail to distract and confuse voters. JOCELYN BENSON: And letâ?Ts be clear: there is absolutely zero difference between voting by mail and voting absentee. Millions of Americans have been voting absentee for decades. Donald Trump, his family, his staffâ?"they all vote by mail. In fact, in states like Colorado, Utah, and Oregon voters have been voting by mail for years. Republicans and Democrats agree: it is safe. Padilla and Benson renewed Kamala Harris' calls for Americans to establish a voting plan, warning voters that if results come at a delay in November, their ballot is still safe. 214631: PADILLA: "Don't let anyone keep you from exercising your most sacred right. Make your plan to vote. Grab your mask and head to the polls the first day they're open. Or request your ballot and send it in right away. And know this: Election results may take a little longer this year, but Democrats will fight to make sure your ballot is counted." We then heard from New Jersey senator and fellow 2020er Cory Booker, who spoke on the importance of unions across the country and uplifting members of the working class during the nation's recent economic downturn, saying President Trump has failed. 214838: BOOKER- "Joe Biden and Kamala Harris know the dignity of all working Americans. They know the urgency and the demands of our dream. But working people are under attack. The wealth gap grows, our middle class shrinks and poverty persists. 214913: "He has failed us. But still, I believe in the dream of our ancestors. Together with Joe and Kamala in the White House, we'll raise the minimum wage so no one who works a full-time job in America lives in poverty. Together, we'll fight for those who keep us healthy, who keep us safe, who teach our children." We heard from Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin, who laid out a vision for the country for the working class and reforms to health care as Americans are buried under the coronavirus crisis and the economic downturn which accompanied it. 215700: BALDWIN- "What kind of country do we want to be? Do we want to be a country where millionaires get to dodge taxes or one where working families get a break? "Do we want to be a country where medical bills bury people in debt or one where healthcare is affordable for all? Or where tens of thousands of people die from a virus? Or where the American dream lives?" 215811: "And over the past month, we have added another to that list: a nation free from COVID. That's why Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are the only answer in this election." Illinois Sen. Tammy Baldwin spoke on her experience as a wounded military veteran-- making a pitch to Americans about Biden's commitment to military families. 220712: "You see, military service doesnâ?Tt just take courage and sacrifice from those in uniformâ?"theyâ?Tre required from their families, too. Joe Biden understands those sacrifices, because he has made them himself. When his son Beau enlisted in the Army and deployed to Iraq, that burden was shouldered by his family as well. Joe understands the pain I felt when it was Bryan's turn to be deployed. He knows the fear military families live with because heâ?Ts felt that dread of never knowing if your loved one is safe. He understands their bravery because he had to muster that same strength every hour of every day Beau was overseas. "Thatâ?Ts the kind of leader our service members deserve: a leader who would actually honor their sacrifices. But they donâ?Tt have that in our current commander in chief, whoâ?Ts either unwilling or incapable of doing so." She gave a scathing review of Donald Trump's foreign policy, and his use of military forces during his time as president. 220801: "As president, Joe Biden would never let tyrants manipulate him like a puppet. He would never pervert our military to stroke his own ego. He would never turn his back on our troops or threaten them against Americans peacefully exercising their constitutional rights. Joe Biden would stand up for what's right, stand tall for our troops, and stand strong against our enemies. Because unlike Trump Joe Biden has common decency." Former presidential contender, former Mayor of South Bend, Ind., and military veteran Pete Buttigieg spoke on the sacrifices members of the military have made for the United States, questioning Americans about where they will stand with their vote in the general election. 221213: "Beau Biden lived a life of service, in office and in uniform. When you put your life on the line for your countryâ?"especially this countryâ?"you do it not because itâ?Ts a country you live in, but because itâ?Ts a country you believe in . I believe in this country because America, uniquely, holds the promise of a place where everyone can belong. We know that for too many and for too long, that promise has gone unrealized. But we also know America has been at its best whenever we make that circle of belonging wider. 221409: "Every American must now decide. Can America be a place where faith is about healing and not exclusion? Can we become a country that lives up to the truth that Black lives matter? Will we handle questions of science and medicine by turning to scientists and doctors? What will we do to make America into a land where no one who works full time can live in poverty," he said. We had a Zoom discussion from former 2020ers on the future of the country, their relationships with Biden and their time in the Senate. Former New York City Mayor and 2020er Michael Bloomberg hit Trump on his track record during his time in the White House, asking Americans if they feel he should be "rehired." 222151: "When confronted with the biggest calamity any president has faced in the modern era, Donald Trump spent the year down playing the threat, ignoring science and recommending quack cures which let COVID-19 spread much faster than it should have, leaving hundreds of thousands needlessly sick or dead. He has failed the American people catastrophically. But tonight I'm not asking you to vote against Donald Trump because he's a bad guy. 222227: "I'm urging you to vote against him because he's done a bad job. Today, unemployment is at historic highs and small businesses are struggling just to survive. It didn't have to be this way. He drew comparisons between Biden and Trump's economic plans, tearing down Trump's tendency to boast economic growth. 222356: "And economic growth was higher under Biden and Obama than under Trump. In fact, while Biden helped save one million auto industry jobs, Trump has lost 250,000 manufacturing jobs. So when Trump says he wants to make America great again, he's making a pretty good case for Joe Biden. Look, our goal shouldn't be to bring back the pandemic economy. It should be, as Joe says, to build it back better. 222426: "Joe's economic plan will create clean energy jobs that help fight another crisis that Trump is ignoring, climate change. And Joe will rebuild our crumbling roads and bridges, something Trump has incessantly talked about doing. We are set to hear next from Biden's family, the Curry family and Biden himself. In two videos, members of the Biden family paid tribute to their patriarchal figure, including Bidenâ?Ts son Hunter Biden--a notable appearance by his only surviving son who has largely stayed off the campaign trail in the wake of the controversy over his work abroad while his father was vice president and the impeachment trial of Donald Trump. In alternating lines, Hunter and Bidenâ?Ts daughter, Ashley spoke about the qualities of their dad, and how those qualities will shape his presidency. ASHLEY: He will be tough. HUNTER: And honest. ASHLEY: Caring and principled. HUNTER: He'll listen. He will be there when you need him. ASHLEY: He'll tell you the truth even when you don't want to hear it. HUNTER: He'll never let you down. ASHLEY He'll be rock steady. HUNTER The strongest shoulder you can ever lean on. ASHLEY: He'll beam with pride every time you succeed. HUNTER: He'll make your grandkids feel that what they've got to say matters. ASHLEY: He'll treat everyone with respect no matter who you are. HUNTER>> He'll get up no matter how many times he's been knocked down. ASHLEY>> He'll be the worst enemy any bully ever saw. HUNTER>> He'll be the best friend you have ever had. ASHLEY>> He'll love you with all of his heart. HUNTER>> And if you give him your cell phone number. ASHLEY>> He's going to call it. HUNTER>> How do we know? ASHLEY>> Because he's been that way our whole lives. (22:36:24) But it was Bidenâ?Ts late son, Beau Biden who got the last word in the video, via a video clip of Beau introducing Joe Biden at the 2008 convention. â?oIn moments both public and private, he's the father I have always known, the grandfather my children love and adore, my father, my hero, Joe Biden,â?? Beau says in the clips (22:38:05) Just before Hunter and Ashleyâ?Ts video, a lighthearted video from Bidenâ?Ts 4 granddaughters, Naomi, Finnegan, Masie and Natalie, spoke about their grandfathersâ?T love of ice cream and phone calls to check in on them., as well as their urging him to join the Democratic primary last year. â?oI came down from Pen and Masie came up from D.C., and my cousins lived down the road. He thought we were calling a meeting sort of to, like, discuss, you know, whether or not we wanted him to, but really we were calling it to be like, get in that race right now,â?? Naomi, the eldest granddaughter said. (22:31:44 After a nearly 50 year career, and 3 presidential runs, tonight, Joe Biden officially accepted the Democratic Nomination--a moment more than 30 years in the making. â?oItâ?Ts with great honor and humility that I accept this nomination for president of the United States of America,â?? Biden said, wasting no time in his remarks to officially accept. (22:49:46) In broad, bold language, Biden laid out his case for his campaign, focusing on his plans for leading the country and winning back â?othe soul of America,â?? lamenting that the country is facing 4 historic crises --â??A perfect storm,â?? in his eyes. â?oWinning it for those communities who have known the injustice of a knee on the neck, for all the young people who have known only America being rising inequity and shrinking opportunity. They deserve the experience of America's promise,â?? Biden said. (225114) â?oThey deserve to experience it in full. You know, no generation ever knows what history will ask of it. All we can ever know is whether we're ready when that moment arrives. And now history has delivered us to one of the most difficult moments America's ever faced. Four, four historic crises all at the same time, a perfect storm. (225140) The worst pandemic in over a hundred years, the worst economic crisis since the great depression, the most compelling call for racial justice since the 60s and the undeniable realities and just the accelerating threats of climate change. So the question for us is simple: are we ready? I believe we are. (22:52:06) In a speech that felt less like a convention address, and more like a presidential address, Biden said that all American know â?oin their bones,â?? that this election is different. â?oYou know, all elections are important. But we know in our bones this one is more consequential. As many have said, America is at an inflexion point, a time of real peril but also extraordinary possibilities. We can choose a path of becoming angrier, less hopeful, more divided, a path of shadow and suspicion or we can choose a different path, and together, take this chance to heal, to reform, to unite. A path of hope and light.â?? â?oThis is a life-changing election. This will determine what America's going to look like for a long, long time. Character is on the ballot. Compassion is on the ballot. Decency, science, democracy. They're all on the ballot,â?? Biden implored in a speech that featured more lofty rhetoric than usual for a politician that prides himself on being a man of the people. (22:52:30) Biden did not address the president by name in his remarks, instead urging voters to simply judge the president on the facts of his administration--believing that would bare out the clear choice. â?oJust judge this president on the facts. 5 million Americans infected by covid-19. More than 170,000 Americans have died. By far the worst performance of any nation on Earth. More than 50 million people have filed for unemployment this year. More than 10 million people are going to lose their health insurance this year. Nearly 1 in 6 small businesses have closed this year,â?? Biden argued. (22:53:38) â?oOur current president has failed in his most basic duty to the nation. He's failed to protect us. He's failed to protect America. And my fellow Americans, that is unforgivable. As president, I'll make you a promise. I'll protect America, I will defend us from every attack, seen and unseen, always, without exception, every time. â?? he added. (22:58:18) Biden hit on several issues throughout his remarks, talking about the importance of protecting healthcare, and pledging to protect social security and Medicaid, The former vice president also paid tribute to President Obama thanking the man he once shared a ticket for the example he set, before delivering a sharp elbow to President Trump. â?oAnd speaking of president Obama, a man I was honored to serve alongside for 8 years as vice president, let me take this moment to say something we don't say nearly enough. Thank you, Mr. President. You were a great president. A president our children could and did look up to. No one's going to say that about the current occupant of the white house,â?? (22:54:57) Biden issued a stark warning to the country, saying life as it once one will never return until we get the virus under control. â?oWe will never get our economy back on track. We will never get our kids safely back in school. We will never have our lives back. Until we deal with this virus. The tragedy of where we are today is it didn't e to be this bad. Just look around. It's not this bad in Canada or Europe or Japan or almost anywhere else in the world,â?? Biden said. (22:56:15) In one of his bluntest critiques of Trump in the speech, he hammered him for hoping for a â?omiracleâ?? that will end the coronavirusâ?T wrath on America. â?oAnd the president keeps telling us the virus is going to disappear. He keeps waiting for a miracle. Well, I have news for him. No miracle is coming. We lead the world to confirm cases. We lead the world in deaths. Our economy's in tatters, with black, Latino, asian-american, native-american communities bearing the brunt of it. And after all this time the president still does not have a plan. Well, I do. If I'm your president on day one we'll implement the national strategy I've been laying out since March.â?? (22:56:44) During his speech Biden also channeled and weaved in his own personal experience with loss and grief, drawing a parallel to the thousands of families suffering during the ongoing pandemic and assuring them he will be a president who understands their pain. â?oLook, I understand. I understand how hard it is to have any hope right now. On this summer night let me take a moment to speak to those of you who have lost the most. I have some idea how it feels to lose someone you love. I know that deep black hole that opens up in the middle of your chest and you feel like you're being sucked into it. I know how mean, cruel, and unfair life can be sometimes,â?? Biden, who has experienced several person tragedies, said. (22:58:43) â?oBut I've learned two things. First, your loved one may have left this Earth, but they'll never leave your heart. They'll always be with you. You'll always hear them. And second, I found the best way through pain and loss and grief is to find purpose,â?? he urged. (22:59:13) Biden then turned his attention to the youths of America, praising them for speaking up on the issues that impact them most, like Climate Change, gun control, before turning his attention to his running mate, Kamala Harris. â?oIt will be the work of the next president to restore the promise of America to everyone. And I'm not going to have to do it alone because I'll have a great vice president at my side. Senator Kamala Harris, she's a powerful voice for this nation. Her story is the American story. She knows about all the obstacles thrown in the way of so many in our country, women, black women, black Americans, south Asian Americans, immigrants, the left out and the left behind. But she's overcome every obstacle she's ever faced. No one's been tougher on the big banks and the gun lobby,â?? Biden said of Harris. (23:04:45) â?oNo one's been tough in calling out the current administration for its extremism, its failure to follow the law, it's failure to simply tell the truth,â?? Biden continued (23:05:27) Biden also spoke fondly of his wife, Dr. Jill Biden, expressing his disbelief at having two great loves of his life and extolling the passion he believes she will bring to the job of First Lady. â?oAfter losing my first wife in that car accident, Jill came into my life. She put our family back together. She's an educator, a mom, a military mom, an unstoppable force. If she puts her mind to it, just get out of the way. She's going to get it done. She was a great second lady, and I know she'll make a great first lady for this nation. She loves this country so much. And I'll always have the strength that can only come from family,â?? Biden said. (23:05:57) Biden also acknowledged his children, but his vote seemed to catch as he spoke about his late son, Beau. â?oWhile he's no longer with us, Beau inspires me every day. Beau served our nation in uniform. A year in Iraq, a decorated Iraqi war veteran. I take very personally and I have the profound responsibility of serving as commander in chief,â?? Biden said of his late son. (23:06:05) The former vice president also spoke forcefully about restoring Americaâ?Ts standing globally, bringing up the reported Russian bounties placed on American soldiers in Afghanistan and assuring the country â?othe days of cozying up to dictators is over.â?? â?oI'll be a president that will stand with our allies and friends and make it clear to our adversaries the days of cozying up to dictators is over. Under president Biden, America will not turn a blind eye to Russian bounties on the heads of American soldiers. Nor will I put up with foreign interference in our most sacred democratic exercise: voting. And I'll always stand for our values of human rights and dignity,â?? Biden said. (23:07:03) Biden once again referenced Charlottesville, the issue he focused on when he launched his campaign in April of 2019--and events that Biden has credited with inspiring to get in the race. â?oThat was a wake up call for us as a country and for me a call to action. At that moment I knew I'd have to run. My father taught us that silence was complicity, and I can never remain silent or complicit,â?? Biden bellowed. (23:08:57) Aside from his reference to the death of George Floyd off the top of his remarks. Biden returned to it again, recalling what he called his most important conversation of the campaign with Floydâ?Ts 6 year old daughter, Gianna after his death. â?oDaddy changed the world,â?? he said Floydâ?Ts young daughter told him. â?oMaybe George Floyd's murder was a breaking point. Maybe John Lewis' passing, the inspiration, but however it's come to be, however it's happened, America's ready, in John's words, to lay down, quote, â?~The heavy burden of hate at last,â?T and then the hard work of rooting out our systemic racism,â?? Biden wondered aloud. (23:09:49) Biden gave his pitch for uniting the country, and throughout the remarks, asking the American public if they were ready for the next chapter. Of course, It wouldn't be a Biden speech if he didnâ?Tt quote an Irish poet, choosing one of his most quoted Seamus Heany quotes about â?ohope and history rhyming, ending on a rousing positive plea. â?oThe Irish poet Seamus Heaney once wrote â?ohistory says don't hope on this side of the grave but then once in a lifetime, the longed for tidal wave of justice can rise up and hope and history rhyme.â?? This is our moment to make hope and history rhyme with passion and purpose. Let us begin, you and I together, one nation under god, united in our love for America, united in our love for each other,â?? Biden said, his voice rising. (23:11:53) â?oFor love is more powerful than hate. Hope is more powerful than fear, and light is more powerful than dark. This is our moment. This is our mission. May history be able to say that the end of this chapter of American darkness begin here tonight as love and hope and light join in the battle for the soul of the nation. And this is a battle we will win, and we'll do it together. I promise you. Thank you and may god bless you, and may god protect our troops. Goodnight,â?? Biden concluded the most important political speech of his life thus far. (23:12:28) Following the remarks, The Bidens, Harris and Emhoff all moved to the parking lot just outside the chase center, greeting the waiting cars and crowd on a stage with a large American Flag as its backdrop, before a flurry of fireworks illuminated the sky. All watched the fireworks with delight--perhaps no one more so than Biden, who very often gestured at the fire works with open arms, and at one point pulled his mask down to speak with his wife amid the booms. â?oWelcome to Wilmington,â?? Biden told reporters gathered in front of the stage to watch them watch the fireworks. One reporter yelled at Biden if he had been tested for COVID-19, but it was highly unlikely he heard the question over both the blare of the music and booms of the fireworks. While people had largely remained socially distanced throughout the evening in the parking lot, that quickly went out the window when Biden appeared, with groups rushing towards the stage. ######## 220000 and contribute anything that you possibly can. Tonight, I couldn't be prouder to be a loyal union member, a passionate climate activist and a patriotic Democrat, or as Donald Trump will call me in a tweet tomorrow, a washed up horse face no talent has been with low ratings. Well, with all due respect, sir, it takes one to know one. And now, I'd like to introduce you to a real American hero, World War II veteran Ed Good. 220032 EDWARD GOOD>> I am Edward good. I'm 95 years old. I'm a veteran of World War II and of Korea. When I wear a uniform, I wear only two badges, my parachute wings and the combat infantry badge. I did make one combat jump over the Rhine in Germany and I'm proud of that. I have been a Republican since the 1960s. I'm a member of the NRA. And I voted for trump. 220104 I think Trump has been the worst president we've ever had, so I'll be glad to see him go. I think Joe Biden will be a great leader for the United States. Like me, on the day of my jump into Germany, I think Joe Biden cares about doing his proper duty for the United States, and if he is elected, that's what he will do. âTªâTªâTªâTª Rise up âTªâTªâTªâTª come on, rise up. 220138 >> This year's election is very important. Probably will be the most important election we've had in years. I recommend strongly based on the division in this country created by our current president, Donald Trump, we need to put somebody else in the white house that's going to bring us together. Now let me just explain something. I've been a long standing Republican for a long time, and I'm telling you, you got to vote for Joe Biden. You have to. I don't think we can deal with the type of person we have in the white house any longer. 220208 So it is up to you, America, and me because this election I'm voting for joe. Iâ?Tm sure, I'm absolutely sure he's going to help us bring this country together once again. âTªâTªâTªâTª 220232 >> My name is Lakisha Cole. I met my husband 20 years ago. We started dating while I was in college. Once I graduated from college, we eloped. Two weeks after that, he deployed. >> This is what I wanted to do. You know, you love this country. Are you willing to do the hard work it takes to maintain it? 220255 >> What was supposed to be a six-month deployment actually turned into 11 months. There was nothing really to prepare me as a new military spouse on how to deal with the stress. >> When people get married, they expect to grow old with each other. With multiple combat tours, there is no guarantee of any of those things. 220318 >> There -- just a long laundry list of uncertainties that we have to juggle. JILL BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> You know, Joe has always cared about military families. They have been through so much. When I went to Iraq, one of the generals said, you know, I want to share this story with you. In his daughter's class, it was a Christmas program, and they were playing the Ave Maria. And one of the little girls burst into tears and the teacher ran over and said, what's the matter? What's the matter? 220352 And she said, that's the song they played at my daddy's funeral. He died in the war. The teacher had no idea that that little girl's father had fought in the war and had died. And that night, I said to my staff, I'm a teacher. We can do better. We've got to do better to help our military kids. 220414 >> The Bidens have a track record of helping military families, and we have seen it with the work that theyâ?Tve done with joining forces and how they were able to, you know, rally a country behind us. 220424 BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Men and women we send to war to defend our nation, care for them and their families while they're gone and care for them and their families when they come home. [ Applause ] 220436 >> It was the very first time that I, as a military spouse, felt like someone was listening to us and someone cared. JILL BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> It's not just the service member who serves. The entire family serves as well. Joe said, we have one sacred obligation, to take care of our members. During this pandemic for sure, so many veterans have lost their jobs. 220505 So many military spouses have lost their jobs. That's one of the things that will be a priority in a Biden administration. We will make sure that all Americans have health care, employment, the things that families need to thrive. 220524 >> When people show you who they are, believe them the first time. And we know exactly who Joe is. He is the best candidate for America, not just for our family, but for all families. SENATOR TAMMY DUCKWORTH 220549 DUCKWORTH>> Good evening. I'm Tammy ductworth. When I first enlisted in the army I was eager to serve my country, yet anxious whether Iâ?Td be able to earn my way into the ranks. But I earned my wings and later commanded my own air assault unit learning that serving and leading in the military is both a privilege and a sacrifice. To be a commander, you must always put your troops first because one day you may order them to sacrifice everything for our great nation. 220616 To do that, leaders must command their troops' respect and be worthy of their pledge to protect and defend our constitution no matter the cost. But military service doesn't just take sacrifice from those in uniform. It is required from their families, too. My husband Brian was the one who rushed to Walter Reed after I was wounded in Iraq. He was the one holding my hand waiting for me to wake up. And when I finally did, he was my rock, getting me through those hours, weeks, months of unspeakable pain and unending surgeries. 220648 He was my anchor as I re-learned to walk, helping me through every step and every stumble. Our military spouses hold their families together, praying for their loved one's safety wherever they are deployed and serving as caregivers to our disabled service members and then picking up the pieces and starting again whenever the next tour or the next war arises. 220712 Joy Biden understands these sacrifices, because he's made them himself. When his son Beau deployed to Iraq, his burden was also shouldered by his family. Joe knows the fear military families live, because he's felt that dread of never knowing if your deployed loved one is safe. He understands their bravery, because he has had to muster that same strength every hour of every day Beau was overseas. 220739 That's the kind of leader our service members deserve, one who understands the risks they face and who would actually protect them by doing his job as commander in chief. Instead, they have a coward in chief who won't stand up to Vladimir Putin, read his daily intelligence briefings, or even publicly admonish adversaries for reportedly putting bounties on our troopsâ?T heads. 220801 As president, Joe Biden would never let tyrants manipulate him like a puppet. He would never pervert our military to stroke his own ego. He would never turn his back on our troops or threaten them against Americans peacefully exercising their constitutional rights. Joe Biden would stand up for what's right, stand tall for our troops, and stand strong against our enemies. Because unlike Trump Joe Biden has common decency. 220830 He has common sense. He can command both from experience and from strength. Donald Trump doesn't deserve to call himself commander in chief for another four minutes, let alone another four years. Our troops deserve better. Our country deserves better. If you agree text more to 30330 to elect Joe Biden, a leader who actually cares enough about America to lead. 220903 BEAU BIDEN (ON VIDEO>>> Good evening. I'm Beau Biden and Joe Biden is my dad. >> Some voices are never silenced. Some work never ceases to change lives. Some people never stop inspiring even after they're gone. Beau Biden was a husband, father, brother, son, soldier, attorney general. He was given just 46 years on his Earth. 220935 OBAMA (ON VIDEO)>> He did in 46 years what most of us couldn't do in 146. Think about the day that dawns for children who are safer because of Beau, whose lives are full because of him. Think about the day that dawns for parents who rest easier and families who are freer because of him. Some folks may never know that their lives are better because of Beau Biden, but that's okay. Certainly for Beau, a claim was never the point of public service. 221004 >> If you know Beau, you knew he lived by the strictest code of honor, duty, service, country. You never had to ask if he would do something the right way. He didn't know any other way. 221018 OBAMA (ON VIDEO)>> Beau didn't cut corners. He turned down an appointment to be Delaware's attorney general so he could win it fair and square. When the field was clear for him to run for senate, he chose to finish his job as AG instead. 221033 After 9/11, he joined the National Guard. He felt it was his obligation. He did his duty to his country and deployed to Iraq. >> Beau Biden served his country in battle. He prosecuted one of the worst child predators in American history. And even though he is no longer with us, every day he still inspires the next president of the united States. BEAU (ON VIDEO)>> It won't be possible for me to be here this fall, so I have something to ask of you. Be there for my dad like he was for me. 211113 LOUIS-DREYFUS>> A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer, and I was absolutely terrified. One of the first people who called me was Joe. His real warmth and kindness on that call, man, I got to say, it made me cry. Our current president has made me cry, too, but it's never had anything to do with his warmth or kindness. Joe Biden's empathy is genuine. You can feel it. That's why president Obama asked Joe to head up the cancer moonshot. 221149 President Obama knows what we all know, Joe Biden understands suffering and loss and sacrifice. Mayor Pete Buttigieg also knows something about sacrifice. He volunteered and was deployed to Afghanistan, then returned home to Indiana to become a highly effective public servant. Say hi to Mayor Pete. PETE BUTTIGIEG 221213 BUTTIGIEG>> Good evening. Beau Biden lived a life of service in office and in uniform. When you put your life on the line for this country, you do it not because it's the country you live in but because it's a country you believe in. I believe in this country. Because America uniquely holds the promise of a place where everyone can belong. We know that for too many and for too long, that promise has been denied. 221248 But we also know America is at its best when we make that circle of belonging wider. Just over ten years ago, I joined the military where firing me because of who I am wasn't just possible, it was policy. Now, in 2020, it is unlawful in America to fire someone because of who they are or who they love. The very ring on my finger, a wedding we celebrated here where I'm standing, reflects how this country can change. 221322 Love makes my marriage real. But political courage made it possible. Including that of Joe Biden, who stepped out ahead even of this party when he said that marriage equality ought to be the law of the land. There is a long way to go. But if this much can change between 2010 and 2020, imagine what could change between now and 2030. 221349 Imagine what we could achieve, this coalition we are building this very season, gathering Progressives and moderates, independents and even what I like to call future former Republicans standing for an America where everyone belongs. Joe Biden is right. 221409 This is a contest for the soul of the nation. And to me, that contest is not between good Americans and evil Americans. It is the struggle to call out what is good in every American. It's up to us. Will America be a place where faith is about healing and not exclusion? Can we become a country that lives up to the truth that black lives matter? 221437 Will we handle questions of science and medicine by turning to scientists and doctors? Will we see to it that no one who works full-time can live in poverty? 221452 I trust Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to guide us toward that better future, because Iâ?Tve seen up close their empathy and their capacity. Just as I have seen my fellow Americansâ?T capacity to support and include one another in new ways and do better by the promise of America. The day I was born, the idea of an out candidate seeking any federal office at all was laughable. Yet, earlier this year I campaigned for the presidency, often with my husband Chasten at my side, winning delegates to this very convention. 221529 Now, I come to this convention proudly supporting Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Joining fellow Democrats who were squaring off in competition just a few months ago. A number of us recently got together to talk about the Joe we know. 221550 BOOKER>> Hi. I'm Cory booker. Welcome to everybody at home. I am very excited to present to you a group of people that ran in the 2020 democratic primary against Joe Biden. You could think of this sort of like survivor on the out interviews of all the people that got voted off the island. Bernie, Bernie, don't you laugh because I got questions for you like why does my girlfriend like you more than she likes me? SANDERS>> Because smarter than you and that's the obvious answer, right? 221622 BOOKER>> Hey, Iâ?Tm curious, because, Senator Sanders and Senator Klobuchar you actually served with Joe Biden in the senate. I'm wondering if you have any memories of what he was like as a colleague in the senate? KLOBUCHAR>> Well, I remember one night when I was giving one of those floor speeches and Corey you know what this is like, no one was there. No one was watching. I was all alone, and I gave my speech with much vigor to a completely empty chamber. And I walked out of there and I thought, I wonder if my mom was even watching this on C-SPAN. 221653 And at that moment, the cell phone rings, and I actually thought, maybe my mom was watching it on C-SPAN. And you know who it was? It was Joe Biden. And that kind of goes to not only his kindness for calling me and being a mentor, but it also goes to how much he cares about our government and what people are saying, and that even when he's at home at night, and he's watching and he cares. 221718 SANDERS>> But, Amy, we all want to know, did your mother watch the speech? KLOBUCHAR>> I know. 221725 BUTTIGIEG>> Do you remember the steak fry when we were waiting to go on? It worked out to where I was there the same time he was, and he pulled me aside at one point, and he pointed to somebody who we both knew who was working on my campaign, but he'd known from before and let me know that that was somebody who had gone through a family tragedy, that Joe somehow knew about, and just thought it was important for me to know that about someone who was working with me. 221749 I thought -- you know, over time I realized that it's just basic to who he is, but that always stuck with me. 221755 BOOKER>> Elizabeth, do you have any remembrances as well? WARREN>> I think the day I saw Joe the clearest was on the one-year anniversary of the Boston marathon bombing and everyone of course was enormously honored to have the vice president here. But at some point in that speech, he shifted to the parent who had lost a child, to the man who had lost a wife, to someone who had experienced loss very personally and he spoke to each of the families from the heart. 221833 BOOKER>> That's phenomenal. I want to ask what gets you excited about this idea of the inclusion of big ideas from all over the party into the future, into the next administration? 221847 YANG>> The magic of Joe Biden is that everything he does becomes the new reasonable. If he comes with an ambitious plan to address climate change, all of a sudden everyone is going to follow his lead. You can see with him choosing Kamala, too, he wants to build the best team. Let's do it together. That's how we're going to rebuild this country. 221905 OROURKE>> Cory, I'm so optimistic about our country right now despite some very dark days for a lot of our fellow Americans in large part because of what young people are doing right now. After the murder of Ahmaud ud arbery, breonna Taylor and George Floyd, young people by and large, led these protests, and theydid so in the absolute best traditions of this country. The the tradition of John Lewis. 221932 My optimism and my faith in this country is reflected in those young people and the way that Joe and kamala are listening to them and incorporating their ideas and their urgency in the campaign that they're running and the administration that they're going to lead. BOOKER>> And I often think some people say they don't know if they're going to vote or not are saying that from a point of privilege that a lot of Americans don't have. There are so many things for lots of folks who live life on the margins that this election is gonna decide and maybe it is not a life or death issue for you, but we are all in this together. Oâ?TROURKE>> Absolutely. 222007 SANDERS>> Cory, what I would say is that this is clearly the most important election in the modern history of this country. And Joe Biden, you have a human being who is empathetic, who is honest, who is decent. And at this particular moment in American history, my god, that is something that this country absolutely needs. And all of us, whether you are Progressives, whether you are moderates or conservatives, have got to come together to defeat this president. 222040 BOOKER>> Thanks for that, Bernie. I want to thank you all for joining us for this segment. I mean this sincerely. It was an honor to run against you. And it is an even greater honor to stand with you in support of Joe Biden and kamala Harris. MICHAEL BLOOMBERG 222057 BLOOMBERG>> Good evening. I've never been much for partisan politics. I have supported Democrats, Republicans, and independents. Hell, I've actually been a Democrat, Republican and independent. It's all about people. And the two people running for president couldn't be more different. One believes in facts. One does not. One listens to experts. The other thinks he knows everything. 222124 One looks forward and sees strength in America's diversity. The other looks backwards and sees immigrants as enemies and white supremacists as allies. Here is another difference. One has proven he knows how to handle a crisis by helping to lead the economic turn-around after the 2008 recession, while the other has not only failed to lead, he has made the current crisis much worse. 222151 When confronted with the biggest calamity any president has faced in the modern era, Donald Trump spent the year down playing the threat, ignoring science and recommending quack cures which let covid-19 spread much faster than it should have, leaving hundreds of thousands needlessly sick or dead. He has failed the American people catastrophically. Four years ago, I came before this very convention and said, new yorkers know a con when we see one. But tonight I'm not asking you to vote against Donald Trump because he's a bad guy. 222227 I'm urging you to vote against him because he's done a bad job. Today, unemployment is at historic highs and small businesses are struggling just to survive. It didn't have to be this way. Before I ran for mayor, I spent 20 years running a business I started from scratch, so I want to ask small business owners and their employees one question. And it's a question for everyone. 222255 Would you rehire or work for someone who ran your business into the ground? And who always does what's best for him or her even when it hurts the company? And whose reckless decisions put you in danger? And who spends more time tweeting than working? If the answer is no, why the hell would we ever rehire Donald Trump for another four years? Trump says we should vote for him because he's a great businessman. 222324 Really? He drove his companies into bankruptcy six times, always leaving behind customers and contractors who were cheated and swindled and stopped doing business with him. Well this time, all of us are paying the price, and we can't let him get away with it again. Donald says we should vote for him because the economy was great before the virus. Huh? Biden and Obama created more jobs over their last three years than the Trump administration did over their first three. 222356 And economic growth was higher under Biden and Obama than under Trump. In fact, while Biden helped save one million auto industry jobs, Trump has lost 250,000 manufacturing jobs. So when Trump says he wants to make America great again, he's making a pretty good case for Joe Biden. Look, our goal shouldn't be to bring back the pandemic economy. It should be, as Joe says, to build it back better. 222426 Joe's economic plan will create clean energy jobs that help fight another crisis that Trump is ignoring, climate change. And Joe will rebuild our crumbling roads and bridges, something Trump has incessantly talked about doing. But in the last three and a half years, he hasn't done anything. What a joke. And let me tell you a little secret. 222447 Donald Trump's economic plan was to give a huge tax cut to guys like me who didn't need it and then lie about it to everyone else. Well, Joe will roll back that tax cut that I got so we can fund things our whole country needs, like training for adults who have lost jobs and making college more affordable and investing in American research and development so that the products of tomorrow are made today by American workers. You know, growing up I was taught to believe that America is the greatest country in the world, not because we won the second World War but because of why we fought it, for freedom, democracy and equality. 222532 My favorite childhood book was called Johnny Tremain, about a Boston boy that joins the sons of liberty at the dawn of the American revolution. At the end of the book, Johnny stands on Lexington commons and sees a nation that is, quote, â?ogreen with spring, dreaming of the future.â?? That's the America I know and love. 222554 And that's the America we are in danger of losing under this president. So let's put an end to this whole sorry chapter in American history and elect leaders who will bring integrity and stability, sanity and competence back to the white house. Joe and kamala, go get him for all of us. 222617 LOUIS-DREYFUS>>> We can help you find the best and safest way to vote in your state. Simply text â?ovoteâ?? to 30330 to learn more. 30330. It's actually not that hard to remember. Watch: Person, woman, man, camera, TV, 30330. Anyone can do it. I want to introduce you now to a young man who vice president Biden met earlier this year in New Hampshire and helped to find his voice. Say hello to Braden Harrington. 222655 HARRINGTON>> Hi. My name is Braden Harrington and I'm 13 years old. And without Joe Biden I wouldn't be talking to you today. About a few months ago I met him in New Hampshire. He told me that we were members of the same club. We stutter. It was really amazing to hear that someone like me became vice president. He told me about a book of poems by Yates he would read out loud to practice. 222737 He showed me how he marks his addresses to make it easier to say out loud. So I did the same thing today. And now I'm here talking to you today about the future, about our future. My family often says when the world feels better before talking about something normal like going to the movies. 222813 We all want the world to feel better. We need the world to feel better. I'm just a regular kid, and in the short amount of time, Joe Biden made me feel more confident about something that's bothered me my whole life. Joe Biden cared. Imagine what he could do for all of us. 222835 Kids like me are counting on you to elect someone we can all look up to, someone who cares, someone who will make our country and the world feel better. We're counting on you to elect Joe Biden. âTªâTªâTªâTª Rise up âTªâTªâTªâTª come on, rise up. 222857 >> The first time I met Joe, I was reading at my synagogue. And I had to do a funeral service and a shivah. And towards the end of the service, the door opens up, and this person comes up and this person who was much younger than these octogenarians who were there walked in the room. It was our U.S. Senator, Joe Biden. He was just very respectful and he stayed in the back. 222920 And his head was bowed in reverence. And at the end, I said, senator Biden, why are you here? Because how does a nice Irish Ctholic boy know from shivah. And what he said was just so lovely. He said, this dear lady gave $18 to my campaign from the very first time I started in 1972. So he wanted to show his respects by saying thank you. And that just blew me away. âTªâTªâTªâTª Riseup. 222954 >> I think you guys might have thought we were smaller. >> Granddaughter interview take one. >> No, no. This is good. 223002 >> Okay. So what do I know about your grandfather? >> He's always eating ice cream. Usually it is like vanilla. >> With chocolate sprinkles. >> Vanilla on a regular night. >> No, no chocolate chip. 223019 >> The Breyers that have half chocolate, half vanilla. >> He likes ice cream in hidden ways. >> Eating it like in the freezer so that like my grandma doesn't see. 223031 >> He like hides it. >> How often does he call you? >> Like every day. >> Yeah, every day. 223035 >> Like if we don't talk to him for like a day -- >> He'll ask what's wrong. >> Yeah. >> Heâ?Tll think weâ?Tre like not alive. >> He always calls with the same energy even after he's just done 15 interviews in a row. >> Hi, pop. I was just talking about you. 223049 >> I don't necessarily pick up every day. But I have a lot of voicemails. >> He will pick up our calls no matter where he is. He'd be like on stage giving a speech and we'd call him and he'd be like, what's wrong? Is everything good? >> What does the word "Family" mean to you? >> It is a lot of time together. It is like we've grown up together. He's made sure that every single tradition, every holiday we're all together. I don't think that there's been any decision no matter how big or small that we haven't decided as a family. 223125 >> Pop told us that this election would be totally different from any other election ever. He was worried how it would affect his kids. >> Whether or not we wanted to go through another campaign and be scrutinized by the press. 223138 >> There had been talks of a big meeting coming. >> It's normally called by the parents, I would say. But this time it was called by me. >> I came down from Pen and Maizy came up from D.C., and my cousins lived down the road. He thought we were calling a meeting sort of to, like, discuss, you know, whether or not we wanted him to, but really we were calling it to be like, get in that race right now. 223200 >> We just knew that he had to run and we weren't going to take no as an answer. >> At the end of the day, I think we're all very happy we had that meeting. BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> All right. Well, when you get back there, give me a call to tell me how the whole thing went, okay? >> Okay, I will. 223216 BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> I love you, baby. >> I love you, too. AYESHA CURRY>> We want to ensure that our kids live in a nation that is safe, happy, healthy and fair,f and so this election. STEPH CURRY>> We're voting for Joe Biden. Let's have a conversation with these kids. 223232 >> Let's do it. So let's jump right in, shall we. >> What does jump in mean? >> Oh, boy. >> Mommy, I can't be quiet. AYESHA CURRY>> I don't want you to be quiet. You deserve to speak and say whatever it is that comes to your mind in this moment right now. 223253 Every election is important. This upcoming election is especially important because, one, because the social injustices right now, racial inequality, but also because we have children. >> Excuse me, mommy? AYESHA CURRY>> Yes. >> I need to go to the bathroom. AYESHA CURRY>> Okay. STEPHEN CURRY>> You want to go right now? 223310 STEPHEN CURRY>> Do you know where the president lives? >> In the white house. >> Washington, D.C. STEPHEN CURRY>> Do you know what the president's job is? >> To tell what happened to the world. STEPHEN CURRY>> That's good. That's a good one. 223326 >> Keep the environment safe. STEPHEN CURRY>> That is correct, as we say. That is correct. >> Correct! AYESHA CURRY>> If you could create the ideal person lead this country, what characteristics would that person have? >> A very kind personality. >> What would you like to see taken care of? >> I would like to see him taking care of the Earth and the people. STEPHEN CURRY>> So, girls, it is 2020 and the election is coming up in November, do you know who is running for president? >> Joe Biden. >> Yeah. >> And -- AYESHA CURRY>> Exactly. That's it. This video is over. STEPHEN CURRY>> What would you say if you knew that Joe Biden was going to have a woman as his vice president? >> Surprised and like happy. STEPHEN CURRY>> Why? >> There is like not a lot of women like being president and helping alongside the president. 223439 STEPH CURRY>> Uh-huh. How important do you think your faith is in the way that you live your life? >> Really big because I'm grateful for all the things that I have and that I love my family. 223454 AYESHA CURRY>> And with that said, everyone, we really thank you, one, for listening to this very candid conversation with our daughters and we just want to encourage you to truly do your research and think about your own homes and what you'd like to see projected out into the world. And the right direction is making sure that you vote this election for Biden. 223522 AYESHA CURRY>> Whatever you do, please vote. Every vote counts. Just remember that. Are you going to dance out? LOUIS-DREYFUS>>> Here's the big question. How much of your time and energy are you willing to devote to elect Joe Biden? Here's my answer. I'm going all in. Look, elections can break your heart. 223547 But sometimes they can make you sing from the mountain tops, and this year we're going to sing. This year we're going to elect a president who's honest, experienced and intelligent, a president who actually believes in the rule of law, who will restore dignity and normalcy to the white house and the soul of this nation. And, boy, won't that be something? One of my favorite things Joe Biden says is that you can succeed in life without sacrificing your ideals or your commitment to family. So who better to introduce our nominee, Joe Biden, than his children. 223620 HUNTER BIDEN>> I'm hunter Biden. ASHLEY BIDEN>> And I'm Ashley Biden. HUNTER BIDEN>> Joe Biden is our dad. ASHLEY BIDEN>> And beau is our brother. HUNTER BIDEN>> We want to tell you what kind of president our dad will be. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He will be tough. HUNTER BIDEN>> And honest. ASHLEY BIDEN>> Caring and principled. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll listen. He will be there when you need him. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll tell you the truth even when you don't want to hear it. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll never let you down. 223650 ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll be rock steady. HUNTER BIDEN>> The strongest shoulder you can ever lean on. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll beam with pride every time you succeed. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll make your grandkids feel that what they've got to say matters. 223703 ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll treat everyone with respect no matter who you are. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll get up no matter how many times he's been knocked down. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll be the worst enemy any bully ever saw. HUNTER BIDEN>> He'll be the best friend you have ever had. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He'll love you with all of his heart. HUNTER BIDEN>> And if you give him your cell phone number. ASHLEY BIDEN>> He's going to call it. 223721 HUNTER BIDEN>> How do we know? ASHLEY BIDEN>> Because he's been that way our whole lives. HUNTER BIDEN>> He's been a great father. ASHLEY BIDEN>> And we think he'll be a great president. HUNTER BIDEN>> Beau isn't with us any longer. ASHLEY BIDEN>> But he is still very much alive in our hearts and we can still hear his strong voice. HUNTER BIDEN>> Just like it was yesterday. ASHLEY BIDEN>> Just like it was yesterday. 223744 HUNTER BIDEN>> In 2008 and 2012, he introduced our dad at those conventions. ASHLEY BIDEN>> And if he was here, we're pretty sure we'd know what he'd say. HUNTER BIDEN>> So before we show you a film about our dad's journey, we wanted to give Beau the last word. Beau. ASHLEY BIDEN>> Beau. Take it away. 223805 BEAU BIDEN>> In moments both public and private, he's the father I have always known, the grandfather my children love and adore, my father, my hero, Joe Biden. [ Applause ] VIDEO 223846 >> Our lives have been turned upside down, shattered and shaken. But the American story has had moments like this before. And he was there answering the call. OBAMA (ON VIDEO)>> When we came into office in 2009, we were going through what was then the worst financial and economic crisis since the great depression. >> The economy was hemorrhaging hundreds of thousands of jobs a week. People were losing their homes to foreclosure. The financial system was in tatters. Auto sales had dropped to near zero levels. 223932 >> The auto companies face bankruptcy. And many said, let them fail. But Joe remembered his father and what it meant to lose a job. The Finnegans and Bidens were Irish catholic. Joe was their first. And then his sister Valerie. 22405 VALERIE BIDEN-OWENS (ON VIDEO)>> From the moment I opened my eyes, my big brother was there. The thing that was most important was family and family and family. >> As the post-war boom faded, Joe's father struggled to find work in Scranton. But 140 miles south, there was a job cleaning boilers in Wilmington. 224031 VALERIE BIDEN-OWENS (ON VIDEO)>> There was a long stairway up to the second floor. Dad went up to Joey in our bedroom and said, Joey, you got to be a big boy. >> For the first time, Joe saw the heavy burden on a father, and it was a lesson he would never forget. 224051 VALERIE BIDEN-OWENS (ON VIDEO)>> The job is a lot more than a paycheck. It is about dignity. >> The country was losing tens of thousands of jobs a day. And they needed three votes to pass the economic rescue package. 224104 >> Joe Biden was handed the task of going to get those three Republican votes. >> Joe returned to the place where he had been so effective. >> Passionate argument, a sympathetic listening, a willingness to make adjustments and accommodations to bring people onboard. 224122 >> When the law finally passed, the president tapped his partner to run the program. Joe tracked every dollar, calling mayors and governors. >> Talking to him on the phone one-on-one. He gave all of them his cell phone. 224138 CECILIA MUNOZ (VO)>> And I watched him bring his heart to that job. It matters that you have in your mind the family that you are trying to reach, the neighborhood that you are trying to reach, the people whose lives are affected by what you do. >> The skills that had made him so effective had not come easy. When he entered school, there was a problem. Joe had a stutter. JOE BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> And it's mortifying. It allows that child to become an object of ridicule. 224209 >> When his teacher mimicked him and Joe ran home from school, his mother drove him back. JOE BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Did you say to my son, Mr. B -- Biden. The nun said, I was just trying to make a point. My mother stood up, all 5'2" of her. â?oIf you ever talk to my son like that again, I'll come back and rip that damn bonnet off your head, do you understand me? Joey, go back to class.â?? 224232 >> Joe resolved to overcome his stutters. BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Some letters are harder than others. And I used to get up at night and go stand in front of the mirror with a flashlight and practice. She'd make me look her in the eye, look at me. Remember, Joey, you are the smartest boy in that class. Nobody is better than you, Joey. From having to deal with stuttering, it gave me insight into other people's pain, other people's suffering. 224304 >> At 19, Joe sought out a summer job that few of his peers considered taking. >> He was a lifeguard along with the black lifeguards. That's when I first seen Joe. And we became friends. BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> It was one of the best things I have ever done, because it gave me a sense that we really didn't know one another. 224322 >> After Martin Luther King Jr. Was assassinated, riots broke in Wilmington, and the National Guard stayed for almost a year. BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> I quit the law firm and asked for a job to become a public defender. That's what sort of got me involved in politics. 224343 >> Jay Caleb Boggs was a popular war hero in a solidly Republican state, and few took Joe's campaign seriously. In Delaware, the democratic party was nonfunctional. When it got time to put up a candidate, they didn't want to touch him. This young upstar, Joe Biden, who had a lot of ideas and no money, no influence, the party said, okay, well then go ahead, Biden, give it a whirl. 224412 BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> That's all I can ask. If you like what you see, help me out. If not, go for the other fellow. >> You know, we have a coffee and we come out of that, weâ?Td have five more coffees. He was very articulate on the issues. He brought people to say not just that well, I agree with what you are doing, but you know, what can I do to help? >> Delaware is the first state. J. Caleb Boggs is the incumbent Republican being challenged by Joseph Biden. Biden is a Democrat who is 29 years of age. >> But exhilaration soon turned to tragedy. >> It was clear he had decided that I'm not going to be a senator, that the boys need me too much. 224453 BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> I was prepared to walk away in 1973. But men like Ted Kennedy, and Mike Mansfield, and Hubert Humphrey and Fritz Holings, Dan Owen(?), they convinced me to stay, to stay six months, Joe. Do you remember, Ted? To stay six months. 224513 >> He couldnâ?Tt allow the suffering to debilitate him. Just like he couldn't allow the stuttering to define him. That's the backbone. There is something bigger than Joe's suffering. >> The senate turned out to be a wonderful place for him. He had a real gift for bringing people together. 224543 >> The three of them had a bond that was forged in sorrow and expanded into joy when Jill entered. JILL BIDEN (VO) >>They had built this beautiful family, this circle of trust. And then the extra gift of Ashley. ASHLEY BIDEN (VO)>> Growing up it was full of adventure, laughter. HUNTER BIDEN (VO)>> We do everything as a family and weâ?Tve always done everything as a family. JILL BIDEN (VO) >> He was always a good, loving father. I mean, there is nothing more important to Joe than his children. 224619 BEAU BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Itâ?Ts hard to explain how ever present he was in our lives. You don't have to guess what my dad believes. The great benefit of being my father is that he doesn't have to contort himself into different people at different times. >> Beau was going to do fine things. I mean, he had it all. And then he got sick. The whole world tilted and it felt like we were all falling off. 224649 >> Once again, Joe faced the unimaginable. JOE BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> My mother, she said, â?obravery resides in every heart. And some day it will be summoned.â?? 224708 >> The way he survived losing my mom and my sister and then losing my brother is understanding that you have to have purpose. JOE BIDEN (ON VIDEO)>> Every day I get up and I ask myself, I hope he's proud of me because that's the thing that makes me move on. >> From his time in the senate and then the white house Joe always found a way forward, forging unlikely friendships and alliances and time after time he made progress possible. 224744 And always holding in his heart the struggles of his family and every family. Always fighting to make his country whole. CECILIA MUNOZ (VO) >> It's a very rare quality to bring your empathy skills to the process of governing. Joe Biden never forgets that that's the point of moving the wheels of government. BERNIE SANDERS (VO) >> He will keep his word. He will reach out and hear what other people have to say. BARACK OBAMA (ON VIDEO)>> To have somebody who believes in what's best in us, somebody like Joe Biden who actually believes in the American idea, that's the kind of person who I want in the white house. JOE BIDEN 224835 BIDEN>>> Good evening. Ella baker, a giant of the civil l rights movement left us with this wisdom: Give people light and they will find the way. Give people light. Those are words for our time. The current president has cloaked America in darkness for much too long. 224859 Too much anger, too much fear, too much division. Here and now I give you my word. If you entrust me with the presidency, I will draw on the best of us, not the worst. I will be an ally of the light, not the darkness. It is time for us, for we, the people, to come together. And make no mistake, united we can and will overcome this season of darkness in America. 224932 We will choose hope over fear, facts over fiction, fairness over privilege. I'm a proud Democrat and I will be proud to carry the banner of our party into the general election. 224946 So itâ?Ts with great honor and humility, I accept this nomination for president of the United States of America. But while I'll be a democratic candidate, I will be an American president. I'll work hard for those who didn't support me, as hard for them as I did for those who did vote for me. 225006 That's the job of a president, to represent all of us, not just our base or our party. This is not a partisan moment. This must be an American moment. Itâ?Ts a moment that calls for hope and light and love, hope for our future, light to see our way forward and love for one another. America isn't just a collection of clashing interests, of red states or blue states. We're so much bigger than that, weâ?Tre so much better than that. 225038 You know, nearly a century ago, Franklin Roosevelt pledged the new deal in a time of massive unemployment, uncertainty, and fear, stricken by disease, stricken by a virus, FDR insisted that he would recover and prevail, and he believed America could as well. And he did and we can as well. This campaign isn't just about winning votes. It's about winning the heart and, yes, the soul of America, winning it for the generous among us, not the selfish. 225114 Winning it for workers who keep this country going, not just the privileged few at the time. Winning it for those communities who have known the injustice of a knee on the neck, for all the young people who have known only America being rising inequity and shrinking opportunity. They deserve the experience of America's promise. 225140 They deserve to experience it in full. You know, no generation ever knows what history will ask of it. All we can ever know is whether we're ready when that moment arrives. And now history has delivered us to one of the most difficult moments America's ever faced. Four, four historic crises all at the same time, a perfect storm. 225206 The worst pandemic in over a hundred years, the worst economic crisis since the great depression, the most compelling call for racial justice since the 60s and the undeniable realities and just the accelerating threats of climate change. So the question for us is simple: are we ready? I believe we are. 225230 We must be. You know, all elections are important. But we know in our bones this one is more consequential. As many have said, America is at an inflexion point, a time of real peril but also extraordinary possibilities. We can choose a path of becoming angrier, less hopeful, more divided, a path of shadow and suspicion or we can choose a different path, and together, take this chance to heal, to reform, to unite. 225304 A path of hope and light. This is a life-changing election. This will determine what America's going to look like for a long, long time. Character is on the ballot. Compassion is on the ballot. Decency, science, democracy. They're all on the ballot. Who we are as a nation, what we stand for, and most importantly, who we want to be, that's all on the ballot. And the choice could not be more clear. No rhetoric is needed. 225338 Just judge this president on the facts. 5 million Americans infected by covid-19. More than 170,000 Americans have died. By far the worst performance of any nation on Earth. More than 50 million people have filed for unemployment this year. More than 10 million people are going to lose their health insurance this year. Nearly 1 in 6 small businesses have closed this year. And this president if he's re-elected you know what will happen. Cases and deaths will remain far too high. More mom and pop businesses will close their doors and this time for good. 225421 Working families will struggle to get by. And yet the wealthiest 1% will get tens of billions of dollars in new tax breaks. And the assault on the Affordable Care Act will continue until it's destroyed, taking insurance away from more than 20 million people, including more than 15 million people on medicaid. And getting rid of the protections that president Obama worked so hard to get past for people who have -- 100 million more people who have pre-existing conditions. 225457 And speaking of president Obama, a man I was honored to serve alongside for 8 years as vice president, let me take this moment to say something we don't say nearly enough. Thank you, Mr. President. You were a great president. A president our children could and did look up to. No one's going to say that about the current occupant of the white house. 225522 What we know about this president is if he's given four more years, heâ?Tll be what he's been for the last 4 years. A president who takes no responsibility, refuses to lead, blames others, cozies up to dictators and fans the flames of hate and division. He'll wake up every day believing the job is all about him, never about you. Is that the America you want for you, your family, your children? 225551 I see a different America. One that's generous and strong, selfless and humble. It's an America we can rebuild together. havAs president, the first step I will take will be to get control of the virus that has ruined so many lives, because I understand something this president hasn't from the beginning, we will never get our economy back on track. 225615 We will never get our kids safely back in school. We will never have our lives back. Until we deal with this virus. The tragedy of where we are today is it didn't e to be this bad. Just look around. It's not this bad in Canada or Europe or Japan or almost anywhere else in the world. And the president keeps telling us the virus is going to disappear. He keeps waiting for a miracle. 225644 Well, I have news for him. No miracle is coming. We lead the world to confirm cases. We lead the world in deaths. Our economy's in tatters, with black, Latino, asian-american, native-american communities bearing the brunt of it. And after all this time the president still does not have a plan. Well, I do. If I'm your president on day one we'll implement the national strategy I've been laying out since March. 225719 We'll develop and deploy rapid tests with results available immediately. We'll make the medical supplies and protective equipment that our country needs. We'll make them here in America, so we will never again be at the mercy of China or other foreign countries in order to protect our own people. We'll make sure our schools have the resources they need to be open, safe and effective. We'll put politics aside. 225749 We'll take the muzzle off our experts so the public gets the information they need and deserve, honest, unvarnished truth. They can handle it. We'll have a national mandate to wear masks not as a burden but as a patriotic duty to protect one another. In short, we'll do what we should have done from the very beginning. Our current president has failed in his most basic duty to the nation. He's failed to protect us. 225823 He's failed to protect America. And my fellow Americans, that is unforgivable. As president, I'll make you a promise. I'll protect America, I will defend us from every attack, seen and unseen, always, without exception, every time. 225843 Look, I understand. I understand how hard it is to have any hope right now. On this summer night let me take a moment to speak to those of you who have lost the most. I have some idea how it feels to lose someone you love. I know that deep black hole that opens up in the middle of your chest and you feel like you're being sucked into it. I know how mean, cruel, and unfair life can be sometimes. 225913 But I've learned two things. First, your loved one may have left this Earth, but they'll never leave your heart. They'll always be with you. You'll always hear them. And second, I found the best way through pain and loss and grief is to find purpose. As god's children each of us have a purpose in our lives. We have a great purpose as a nation to open the doors of opportunity to all Americans, to save our democracy, to be a light to the world once again, and finally to live up to and make real the words written in the sacred documents that founded this nation. 230000 That all men and women are created equal. Endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights, among them life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. You know, my dad was an honorable, decent man. He got knocked down a few time pretty hard, but he always got back up. He worked hard, and he built a great middle class life for our family. 230027 He used to say, â?oJoey, I don't expect the government to solve my problems but I sure as hell expect them the understand them.â?? And then heâ?Td say, â?oJoey, a job is a lot more than a paycheck. It's about your dignity. It's about respect. It's about your place in the community. It's about being able to look your kid in the eye and say, honey, it's going to be okay and mean it.â?? I've never forgotten those lessons. 230056 That's why my economic plan is all about jobs, dignity, respect, and community. Together, we can and will rebuild our economy. And when we do, we'll not only build back, we'll build back better. With modern roads, bridges, highways, broadband, ports and airports as a new foundation for economic growth, with pipes that transport clean water to every community. With 5 million new manufacturing and technology jobs so the future is made in America. 230130 With a health care system that lowers premiums, deductibles, drug prices. By building on the affordable care act he's trying to rip away. With an education system that trains our people for the best jobs of the 21st century. There's not a single thing American workers can't do, and where cost doesn't prevent young people from going to college and student debt doesn't crush them when they get out. With a child care and elder care system that makes it possible for parents to go to work and for the elderly to stay in their homes with dignity. 230208 With an immigration system that powers our economy and reflects our values, and with newly empowered labor unions. They're the ones that built the middle class. With equal pay for women, with rising wages you can raise a child on, a family on. And yes, we're going to do more than praise our essential workers. We're finally going to pay them. Pay them. 230238 We can and we will deal with climate change. It's not only a crisis, it's an enormous opportunity. An opportunity for America to lead the world in clean energy and create millions of new good paying jobs in the process. 230255 And we can pay for these investments by ending loopholes -- unnecessary loopholes and the president's $1.3 trillion tax give away to the wealthiest 1% and some of America's biggest, most profitable corporations, some of which do not pay any tax at all. Because we don't need a tax code that rewards wealth more than it rewards work. 230319 I'm not looking to punish anyone. Far from it. But it's long pastime the wealthiest people and the biggest corporations in this country paid their fair share. And for our seniors, social security is a sacred obligation, a sacred promise made. They paid for. 230343 The current president is threatening to break that promise. He's proposing to eliminate a tax that pays for almost half the social security without any way of making up for that lost revenue, resulting in cuts. I will not let that happen. If I'm your president, weâ?Tre gonna protect social and medicare. You have my word. One of the most powerful voices we hear in the country today is from our young people. They're speaking to the inequity and injustice that has grown up in America. Economic injustice, racial injustice, environmental injustice. 230426 I hear their voices. If you listen, you can hear them, too. And whether there's an existential threat posed by climate change, the daily fear of being gunned down in school, or the inability to get started in your first job, it will be the work of the next president to restore the promise of America to everyone. And I'm not going to have to do it alone because I'll have a great vice president at my side. 230455 Senator Kamala Harris, she's a powerful voice for this nation. Her story is the American story. She knows about all the obstacles thrown in the way of so many in our country, women, black women, black Americans, south asian-americans, immigrants, the left out and the left behind. But she's overcome every obstacle she's ever faced. No one's been tougher on the big banks and the gun lobby. 230527 No one's been tough in calling out the current administration for its extremism, its failure to follow the law, it's failure to simply tell the truth. Kamala and I both draw from our families. Thatâ?Ts where we get our strength. For Kamala, it's Doug and their families. For me, it's Jill and ours. I've said many times, no man deserves one great love in his life, let alone two, but I've known two. 230557 After losing my first wife in that car accident, Jill came into my life. She put our family back together. She's an educator, a mom, a military mom, an unstoppable force. If she puts her mind to it, just get out of the way. She's going to get it done. She was a great second lady, and I know she'll make a great first lady for this nation. She loves this country so much. And I'll always have the strength that can only come from family. 230630 Hunter, Ashley, all our grandchildren, my brothers, my sister. They give my courage, they lift me up. While he's no longer with us, Beau inspires me every day. Beau served our nation in uniform. A year in Iraq, a decorated Iraqi war veteran. I take very personally and I have the profound responsibility of serving as commander in chief. 230703 I'll be a president that will stand with our allies and friends and make it clear to our adversaries the days of cozying up to dictators is over. Under president Biden, America will not turn a blind eye to Russian bounties on the heads of American soldiers. Nor will I put up with foreign interference in our most sacred democratic exercise: voting. And I'll always stand for our values of human rights and dignity. 230737 I'll work in common purpose for a more secure, peaceful and prosperous world. History -- history has thrust one more urgent task on us. Will we be the generation that finally wipes out the stain of racism from our national character? I believe we're up to it. I believe we're ready. 230804 Just a week ago yesterday was the third anniversary of the events in Charlottesville. Close your eyes, remember what you saw on television. Rememer seeing those neo-nazis and klansman and white supremacists coming out of fields with lighted torches, veins bulging spewing the same anti-semitic bile heard across Europe in the '30s. 230829 Remember the violent clash that ensued between those spreading hate and those with the courage to stand against it. And remember what the president said when asked? He said there were, quote, â?overy fine people on both sides.â?? That was a wake up call for us as a country and for me a call to action. At that moment I knew I'd have to run. My father taught us that silence was complicity, and I can never remain silent or complicit. 230908 At the time I said we were in a battle for the soul of this nation, and we are. You know, one of the most important conversations I've had this entire campaign, it was with someone who was much too young to vote. I met with 6-year-old Gianna Floyd the day before her daddy, George Floyd was laid to rest. She's an incredible little girl. 230935 And Iâ?Tll never forget it. When I leaned down to speak to her, she looked in my eyes and she said, and I quote, â?odaddy changed the world. Daddy, changed the world.â?? Her words burrowed deep into my heart. Maybe George Floyd's murder was a breaking point. Maybe John Lewis' passing the inspiration, but however it's come to be, however it's happened, America's ready, in John's words, to lay down, quote, â?othe heavy burden of hate at last,â?? and then the hard work of rooting out our systemic racism. 231020 You know, American history tells us that it has been in our darkest moments that we've made our greatest progress, that we found the light. In this dark moment I believe we're poised to make great progress again, that we can find the light once more. You know, many people have heard me say this but I've always believed you can define America in one word, possibilities. The defining feature of America -- everything is possible. 231057 That in America everyone, and I mean everyone, should be given an opportunity to go as far as their dreams and god given ability will take them. We can never lose that. In times as challenging as these I believe there's only one way forward: as a united America. A united America. United in our pursuit of a more perfect union. United in our dreams of a better future for us and for our children. 231128 United in our determination to make the coming years bright. Are you ready? I believe we are. This is a great nation. We're a good and decent people. For lord's sake, this is the United States of America. There's never been anything we've been unable to accomplish when we've done it together. 231153 The Irish poet Seamus Heaney once wrote â?ohistory says don't hope on this side of the grave but then once in a lifetime, the longed for tidal wave of justice can rise up and hope and history rhyme.â?? This is our moment to make hope and history rhyme with passion and purpose. Let us begin, you and I together, one nation under god, united in our love for America, united in our love for each other. 231228 For love is more powerful than hate. Hope is more powerful than fear, and light is more powerful than dark. This is our moment. This is our mission. May history be able to say that the end of this chapter of American darkness begin here tonight as love and hope and light join in the battle for the soul of the nation. And this is a battle we will win, and we'll do it together. I promise you. Thank you and may god bless you, and may god protect our troops. Goodnight. 231313 [JILL BIDEN ENTERS] 231337 {KAMALA HARRIS AND DOUG EMHOFF ENTER] 231605 [JOE BIDEN AND JILL BIDEN WALKING] 231713 [JOE BIDEN AND JILL WALKING ONTO OUTDOOR STAGE, WAVING] 231737 [JOE, JILL, KAMALA, AND DOUG WAVING ON OUTSIDE STAGE] 231748 [FIREWORKS]