Remarks by Ambassador DeThomas at the Wheelchair Delivery Ceremony at the Estonian Chamber of Disabled People

General Ralston, Mr. Behring, Mr. Leemets, Ms Maripuu, and Mr. Rahuoja. Let me begin by saying thank you. Thank you to Ms Külli Urb for hosting the event. Thank you to Mr. Leemets for his service to his community. And above all, thank you to Mr. Ken Behring and General Ralston for coming so far to do so much for people in need. You show our country at its best. I also want to recognize the work of the Union of Persons with Mobility Impairment. To undertake such work is a great and noble challenge.

One secret of America is those who lead, understand that their true role is to serve others. I share this table today with the commander of the most powerful military alliance in the history of the world and with a man of considerable personal wealth. But, they are here today not to take, but to give to those who need. They are not here to deal with great persons or great issues, but to deal with something small in the eyes of historians, But, what they do is vital; it is the well-being of fellow human beings.

They represent the Wheelchair Foundation. This group is representative of many organizations across the United States that seek to help their fellow man. The second great secret of America is that its people do not lament problems and wait for their government or some other force to solve them. They solve them themselves and help others to do the same.

They obtain no personal profit from helping others, but they do gain a better community, a stronger society and a more humane world. They help restore dignity and in so doing they gain it themselves.

I have done nothing to deserve to be a part of this ceremony. I am honored to represent those people who have acted to make the world better through their contributions.

Thank you.