美国总统布什白宫告别演说全文

第一篇：美国总统布什白宫告别演说全文

美国总统布什白宫告别演说全文

Fellow citizens: For eight years, it has been my honor to serve as your president.The first decade of this new century has been a period of consequence — a time set apart.Tonight, with a thankful heart, I have asked for a final opportunity to share some thoughts on the journey that we have traveled together, and the future of our nation.Five days from now, the world will witness the vitality of American democracy.In a tradition dating back to our founding, the presidency will pass to a successor chosen by you, the American people.Standing on the steps of the Capitol will be a man whose history reflects the enduring promise of our land.This is a moment of hope and pride for our whole nation.And I join all Americans in offering best wishes to President-elect Obama, his wife Michelle, and their two beautiful girls.Tonight I am filled with gratitude — to Vice President Cheney and members of my administration;to Laura, who brought joy to this house and love to my life;to our wonderful daughters, Barbara and Jenna;to my parents, whose examples have provided strength for a lifetime.And above all, I thank the American people for the trust you have given me.I thank you for the prayers that have lifted my spirits.And I thank you for the countless acts of courage, generosity and grace that I have witnessed these past eight years.This evening, my thoughts return to the first night I addressed you from this house — September the 11th, 2001.That morning, terrorists took nearly 3,000 lives in the worst attack on America since Pearl Harbor.I remember standing in the rubble of the World Trade Center three days later, surrounded by rescuers who had been working around the clock.I remember talking to brave souls who charged through smoke-filled corridors at the Pentagon, and to husbands and wives whose loved ones became heroes aboard Flight 93.I remember Arlene Howard, who gave me her fallen son's police shield as a reminder of all that was lost.And I still carry his badge.As the years passed, most Americans were able to return to life much as it had been before 9/11.But I never did.Every morning, I received a briefing on the threats to our nation.I vowed to do everything in my power to keep us safe.Over the past seven years, a new Department of Homeland Security has been created.The military, the intelligence community and the FBI have been transformed.Our nation is equipped with new tools to monitor the terrorists' movements, freeze their finances and break up their plots.And with strong allies at our side, we have taken the fight to the terrorists and those who support them.Afghanistan has gone from a nation where the Taliban harbored al-Qaida and stoned women in the streets to a young democracy that is fighting terror and encouraging girls to go to school.Iraq has gone from a brutal dictatorship and a sworn enemy of America to an Arab democracy at the heart of the Middle East and a friend of the United States.There is legitimate debate about many of these decisions.But there can be little debate about the results.America has gone more than seven years without another terrorist attack on our soil.This is a tribute to those who toil night and day to keep us safe — law enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, homeland security and diplomatic personnel, and the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.Our nation is blessed to have citizens who volunteer to defend us in this time of danger.I have cherished meeting these selfless patriots and their families.And America owes you a debt of gratitude.And to all our men and women in uniform listening tonight: There has been no higher honor than serving as your commander in chief.The battles waged by our troops are part of a broader struggle between two dramatically different systems.Under one, a small band of fanatics demands total obedience to an oppressive ideology, condemns women to subservience and marks unbelievers for murder.The other system is based on the conviction that freedom is the universal gift of Almighty God, and that liberty and justice light the path to peace.This is the belief that gave birth to our nation.And in the long run, advancing this belief is the only practical way to protect our citizens.When people live in freedom, they do not willingly choose leaders who pursue campaigns of terror.When people have hope in the future, they will not cede their lives to violence and extremism.So around the world, America is promoting human liberty, human rights and human dignity.We're standing with dissidents and young democracies, providing AIDS medicine to dying patients — to bring dying patients back to life, and sparing mothers and babies from malaria.And this great republic born alone in liberty is leading the world toward a new age when freedom belongs to all nations.For eight years, we've also strived to expand opportunity and hope here at home.Across our country, students are rising to meet higher standards in public schools.A new Medicare prescription drug benefit is bringing peace of mind to seniors and the disabled.Every taxpayer pays lower income taxes.The addicted and suffering are finding new hope through faith-based programs.Vulnerable human life is better protected.Funding for our veterans has nearly doubled.America's air and water and lands are measurably cleaner.And the federal bench includes wise new members like Justice Sam Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts.When challenges to our prosperity emerged, we rose to meet them.Facing the prospect of a financial collapse, we took decisive measures to safeguard our economy.These are very tough times for hardworking families, but the toll would be far worse if we had not acted.All Americans are in this together.And together, with determination and hard work, we will restore our economy to the path of growth.We will show the world once again the resilience of America's free enterprise system.Like all who have held this office before me, I have experienced setbacks.There are things I would do differently if given the chance.Yet I've always acted with the best interests of our country in mind.I have followed my conscience and done what I thought was right.You may not agree with some of the tough decisions I have made.But I hope you can agree that I was willing to make the tough decisions.The decades ahead will bring more hard choices for our country, and there are some guiding principles that should shape our course.While our nation is safer than it was seven years ago, the gravest threat to our people remains another terrorist attack.Our enemies are patient, and determined to strike again.America did nothing to seek or deserve this conflict.But we have been given solemn responsibilities, and we must meet them.We must resist complacency.We must keep our resolve.And we must never let down our guard.At the same time, we must continue to engage the world with confidence and clear purpose.In the face of threats from abroad, it can be tempting to seek comfort by turning inward.But we must reject isolationism and its companion, protectionism.Retreating behind our borders would only invite danger.In the 21st century, security and prosperity at home depend on the expansion of liberty abroad.If America does not lead the cause of freedom, that cause will not be led.As we address these challenges — and others we cannot foresee tonight — America must maintain our moral clarity.I've often spoken to you about good and evil, and this has made some uncomfortable.But good and evil are present in this world, and between the two of them there can be no compromise.Murdering the innocent to advance an ideology is wrong every time, everywhere.Freeing people from oppression and despair is eternally right.This nation must continue to speak out for justice and truth.We must always be willing to act in their defense — and to advance the cause of peace.President Thomas Jefferson once wrote, “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.” As I leave the house he occupied two centuries ago, I share that optimism.America is a young country, full of vitality, constantly growing and renewing itself.And even in the toughest times, we lift our eyes to the broad horizon ahead.I have confidence in the promise of America because I know the character of our people.This is a nation that inspires immigrants to risk everything for the dream of freedom.This is a nation where citizens show calm in times of danger and compassion in the face of suffering.We see examples of America's character all around us.And Laura and I have invited some of them to join us in the White House this evening.We see America's character in Dr.Tony Rehcasner, a principal who opened a new charter school from the ruins of Hurricane Katrina.We see it in Julio Medina, a former inmate who leads a faith-based program to help prisoners returning to society.We've seen it in Staff Sgt.Aubrey McDade, who charged into an ambush in Iraq and rescued three of his fellow Marines.We see America's character in Bill Krissoff — a surgeon from California.His son, Nathan — a Marine — gave his life in Iraq.When I met Dr.Krissoff and his family, he delivered some surprising news: He told me he wanted to join the Navy Medical Corps in honor of his son.This good man was 60 years old — 18 years above the age limit.But his petition for a waiver was granted, and for the past year he has trained in battlefield medicine.Lieutenant Commander Krissoff could not be here tonight, because he will soon deploy to Iraq, where he will help save America's wounded warriors — and uphold the legacy of his fallen son.In citizens like these, we see the best of our country — resilient and hopeful, caring and strong.These virtues give me an unshakable faith in America.We have faced danger and trial, and there's more ahead.But with the courage of our people and confidence in our ideals, this great nation will never tire, never falter, and never fail.It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as your president.There have been good days and tough days.But every day I have been inspired by the greatness of our country, and uplifted by the goodness of our people.I have been blessed to represent this nation we love.And I will always be honored to carry a title that means more to me than any other — citizen of the United States of America.And so, my fellow Americans, for the final time: Good night.May God bless this house and our next president.And may God bless you and our wonderful country.Thank you.各位同胞：

过去的八年，我很荣幸地成为你们的总统。这个世纪的头十年是一个非常重要的时期。今晚，带着一颗感恩的心，我将利用这最后的机会和你们一起分享我的一些看法，对过去一起走过的时光以及我们国家未来的看法。

再过五天，世界将见证充满活力的美国民主政治。根据我们建国时创立的传统，总统职位将交给你们--美国人民选举出来的继任者。届时站在国会台阶上的那个人，他的经历将折射出我们这个国家长久以来的承诺。对于我们整个国家来说，这是一个充满希望和自豪的时刻。我将和其他所有美国人民一起，向当选总统奥巴马、他的妻子米歇尔以及他们两位美丽的女儿表达最美好的祝愿。

今晚，我的内心充满感激。我要感谢副总统切尼以及白宫的每一位工作人员；我要感谢劳拉，是她带给了这个家庭无比的快乐，带给我爱；我要感谢两名优秀的女儿--巴巴拉和杰纳；我要感谢我的父母，他们树立的榜样为我的一生提供了动力。除此之外，还我要感谢所有美国人民给予我的信任。谢谢你们的祈祷让我斗志昂扬。在过去的八年时间里，你们给了我无穷的勇气和宽厚，我对此表示深深的感谢。

今晚，我的思绪重新回到2001年9月11日，当时我第一次在这里发表晚间演说。那天上午，恐怖分子对美国发动了自珍珠港事件以来最为严重的恐怖袭击，造成约3000人死亡。我清楚地记得，我三天后站在世贸大楼的残骸前，周围是夜以继日不停工作的救援人员。我记得我同那些穿过五角大楼浓烟密布的走廊进行救援的勇士们交谈，同那些93号航班英雄们的妻子和爱人们对话。我还记得阿勒内-霍华德，她将自己已经牺牲的儿子的警徽送给我，提示我们所失去的一切。直到现在，我都一直保存着他的徽章。

随着时光流逝，绝大多数美国人重新回到了911以前的生活状态。但我却从来没有。每天早上，我都会听取国家面临威胁的一个简报。那时我会发誓要尽我最大的努力来保证我们的安全。

在七年前，一个全新的机构--国土安全部正式成立了。美国的军队、情报机构以及联邦调查局都进行了改造，我们的国家使用最新的装备来监控恐怖分子的动向，冻结他们的财产并且粉碎他们的阴谋。和我们强有力的盟友一起，我们对恐怖分子以及他们的支持者宣战。阿富汗原来是一个塔利班政权包庇“基地”组织，妇女走在街头会遭到石头袭击的国家，但现在却成为了一个新兴的民主国家，它在与恐怖势力做斗争并且鼓励女孩们上学。伊拉克也从一个残暴的独裁政权，一个发誓与美国不共戴天的国家，变成为中东心脏地带的民主国家，变成为美国的朋友。

关于这些决策存在着一些合理的争论，但对于这些结果却没有任何争议。美国在过去的7年多时间里没有再在本土遭到过恐怖袭击，这要感谢那些日夜辛勤工作保卫我们安全的人，包括执法人员、情报分析人员、国土安全和外交官员，以及美国军队的男女士兵。

我们的国家非常幸运地拥有这样的国民，当我们的国家处在危险之中时，他们自愿起来保卫我们的国家。我非常珍视与这些无私的爱国者以及他们家人进行的会面，美国应该感谢你们。对于那些今晚正在聆听这次演讲的男女军人们，我想说的是：这个世界上再也没有比成为你们的总司令更让人感到荣幸了。

我们的军队目前正在进行的战争，广义上来看其实是两种不同体系之间的战争。一种是一小撮狂热分子要求人们完全臣服于压迫的意识形态，他们迫害妇女并且杀害那些和他不一样信仰的人。另外一种体系则建立在普世的民主基础上，自由和正义照亮了和平之路。

我们的国家正是在这种信念下诞生的。长期来看，倡导这种信念是保卫我们国民的唯一切实有效的方法。当人们生活在民主政治中，他们就不会选举出那些追随恐怖势力的领导人。当人们对未来充满希望，他们就不会选择放弃生命来发动暴力袭击。因此，美国一直在全世界倡导自由、人权和尊严。我们向那些新兴的民主政体提供支持，向艾滋病人提供药物让垂死的病人起死回生，让母亲和婴儿们免受疟疾的困扰。这个在自由基础上诞生的伟大国家，正带领全世界走向一个新时代，这个时代民主将属于所有的国家。

过去八年里，我们也努力地在国内扩张机会和希望。在全国，学生们现在可以在公立学校接受条件更好的教育；新的医疗福利政府让老人和残疾人更加安心；每一位纳税人的个人所得税降低；通过信心重建计划，那些吸毒者也找到了新的希望；人们脆弱的生命得到更好的保护；为老兵提供的资金保障几乎增加一倍；美国的空气、水源以及土地比以前更加清洁。

当繁荣遇到挑战时，我们采取了行动。在面临金融崩溃时，我们采取了决定性的措施来保卫经济。对于那些辛苦工作的家庭来说，这是一个非常艰难的时期，但是如果我们不采取行动，后果会更严重，所有的美国人都受到了影响。团结一心的美国人将通过坚定信心和辛勤的工作来使我们的经济再次走上成长之路。我们将向世界再次展示，美国自由企业制度的坚韧性。

和所有前任一样，我也经历过挫折，我也有一些失误。不过，我的行动总是以我们国家的最佳利益为出发点。我对的起自己的良心，采取了我认为是正确的措施。你们可能不同意我所作出的一些艰难决定，但是我希望，你们能认为，我是一位愿意作出艰难决定的总统。我们的国家在未来将面临更多的艰难选择，必须用一些指导性原则来指引我们的路线。

虽然我们的国家现在比七年前更为安全，但我们所面临的最严重威胁仍然是恐怖袭击。我们的敌人很有耐心，他们决心再次对我们发动袭击。美国没有试图挑起冲突或者作过任何导致冲突的错事。但我们有庄严的责任，必须负起责任。我们必须克服自满，必须保持决心，不能放松警惕。

与此同时，我们必须抱有信心和明确目的与世界进行接触。在面临海外威胁的情况下，人们很容易受到孤立主义的诱惑，但是我们必须抵制孤立主义和保护主义，撤退至我们的国境线内只会招来危险。在21世纪，国内的安全和繁荣取决于自由事业在海外的扩展。如果美国不领导自由事业，那么自由事业将没有领导者。

在我们应对这些挑战时，我们今晚还无法预测其它的挑战，美国必须保持道德上的纯洁。人们经常对你们谈起正义和邪恶，这可能使一些人感到不舒服，但是这个世界存在着正义和邪恶，两者之间不可能有妥协。无论何时何地，杀害无辜者来推动一种意识形态都是错误的，把人们从压迫和绝望中解放出来永远是正确的。美国必须为正义和真相说话。我们必须保卫它们，推进和平事业。

托马斯-杰斐逊总统曾写道：“我不缅怀过去的历史，而致力于未来的梦想。”在我即将离开他两个世纪前所居住的白宫时，我也持这种乐观的态度。美国是一个年轻的国家，富有活力，不断在成长和更新自己。即使是在最困难的时刻，我们也可以展望未来的前景。

我对美国的未来充满信心，因为我知道美国人民的性格，这是一个激发移民冒着失去所有东西的风险来追求自由梦想的国家，这是公民们在危险时刻表现平静、在遭受苦难时表现出同情心的国家。我们在身边可以看到这样的例子。我和劳拉今晚邀请了一些这样的人到白宫。

我们可以在托尼-里卡斯尼尔的身上看到美国的性格，这位校长在卡特里娜飓风的废墟上重建了他的学校。我们可以在胡利奥-梅迪纳看到这种性格，这位前犯人领导着一个基于信仰的项目来帮助犯人们重返社会。我们也可以在奥布里-麦克达德参谋军士身上看到这种性格，他冲入包围圈，营救出了三名海军陆战队战友。

我们在加州医生比尔-克里索夫身上看到了美国的这种性格，他的儿子纳塔恩作为一名海军陆战队队员在伊拉克献出了自己的生命。当我遇到克里索夫和他的家人时，他告诉我一些令我意想不到的消息：他告诉我，为了记念自己的儿子，他想加入海军医疗部门。这位好人已60岁，超过规定年龄的上限18年，但他所提出的例外申请获得了批准，他在过去一年一直在接受战场救治的训练。克里索夫中校今晚不能来到这里，因为他即将被部署至伊拉克，他将在那里帮助救护美军伤员，维护他为国牺牲的儿子所留下的遗产。

我们在这些公民身上看到我们国家最优良的品质：坚韧和抱有希望、有爱心和坚强。这些品质使我对美国有不可动摇的信心。我们曾面临危险和考验，未来还会有更多的危险和考验。但是借助于我们人民的勇气和我们对理想的信心，这个伟大的国家将永远不会疲倦、不会松懈，不会失败。

作为你们的总统为你们服务是我一生的荣耀，任期内有过好日子和艰难的日子，但我每天都被我们国家的伟大所鼓舞，为我们人民的善良所振奋。我对自己有机会代表我们所热爱的国家感到幸福，我将永远对自己是美国公民而感到荣耀，对我来说，这一身份比任何其它身份都有份量。

所以，亲爱的美国同胞，让我最后一次对你们说：晚安。愿上帝保佑白宫和我们的下一位总统。愿上帝保佑你和我们这个美好的国家。

第二篇：布什告别演说

THE PRESIDENT: Fellow citizens: For eight years, it has been my honor to serve as your President.The first decade of this new century has been a period of consequence — a time set apart.Tonight, with a thankful heart, I have asked for a final opportunity to share some thoughts on the journey that we have traveled together, and the future of our nation.各位公民：八年来，我有幸担任你们的总统。新世纪的第一个十年是一段意义重大的时期——一个时间分界点。今晚，我怀着一颗感谢的心，请求一个最后的机会，就我们一起走过的旅程以及国家的未来，与诸位分享一些想法。

consequence ['kɔnsi,kwəns]: having important effects or influence重要性；重大意义

set apart: set apart from others使分离

a time set apart一个完全不同的时代

Five days from now, the world will witness the vitality of American democracy.In a tradition dating back to our founding, the presidency will pass to a successor chosen by you, the American people.Standing on the steps of the Capitol will be a man whose history reflects the enduring promise of our land.This is a moment of hope and pride for our whole nation.And I join all Americans in offering best wishes to President-Elect Obama, his wife Michelle, and their two beautiful girls.五天后，世界将目睹美国民主的活力。按照我们立国时的传统，总统之位将传给你们——美国人民所选择的继任者。站在国会山的台阶上的，将是一个其故事可以说明我们国家持久承诺的人。对于我们整个国家来说，这是一个充满希望和自豪的时刻。我和所有美国人一起，向总统当选人奥巴马、他的妻子米歇儿以及他们两个美丽的女儿致以最美好的祝愿。

vitality: the property of being able to survive and grow 活力

Tonight I am filled with gratitude — to Vice President Cheney and members of my administration;to Laura, who brought joy to this house and love to my life;to our wonderful daughters, Barbara and Jenna;to my parents, whose examples have provided strength for a lifetime.And above all, I thank the American people for the trust you have given me.I thank you for the prayers that have lifted my spirits.And I thank you for the countless acts of courage, generosity, and grace that I have witnessed these past eight years.今晚，我满怀感激——感激副总统切尼以及行政成员们；感谢劳拉，她给这个家带来欢乐，给我的生活带来爱；感谢我们了不起的女儿芭芭拉和詹娜；感谢我的父母亲，他们的榜样为我提供了毕生的力量。最重要的是，我感谢美国人民给我的信任。我感谢你们的祈祷鼓舞了我的灵魂。我感谢你们在过去八年让我目睹了无数体现勇气、慷慨与仁慈的行动。

generosity [,dʒenə'rɔsəti]: acting generously慷慨，大方 grace: polite and pleasant behaviour宽容;友好;善意

This evening, my thoughts return to the first night I addressed you from this house — September the 11th, 2001.That morning, terrorists took nearly 3,000 lives in the worst attack on America since Pearl Harbor.I remember standing in the rubble of the World Trade Center three days later, surrounded by rescuers who had been working around the clock.今晚，我的思绪回到我站在这个地方向你们致辞的第一个晚上——2001年9月11日。那天早上，恐怖分子夺走了近3000性命，这是自珍珠港事件以来，美国遭遇的最严重的袭击。我记得于三天后站在世贸中心的废墟中的情形，周围是全天候工作的救援人员。

rubble ['rʌbl]: the remains of something that has been destroyed or broken up瓦砾

I remember talking to brave souls who charged through smoke-filled corridors at the Pentagon, and to husbands and wives whose loved ones became heroes aboard Flight 93.I remember Arlene Howard, who gave me her fallen son’s police shield as a reminder of all that was lost.And I still carry his badge.我记得与那些穿越五角大楼浓烟的勇士们的谈话，以及与93号航班上殉难英雄们的妻子或丈夫们的交谈。我还记得阿勒内-霍华德，她将自己已经牺牲的儿子的警徽送给我，提示我们所失去的一切。我仍然戴着他的徽章。brave soul: 勇士;勇敢的人 loved ones: 亲人；心爱的人

fallen ['fɔ:lən]: killed in battle死去的；阵亡的

shield [ʃi:ld]: a piece of equipment made of strong plastic, used by the police to protect themselves against angry crowds [= riot shield](警察驱散**群众时用的)防暴盾牌

As the years passed, most Americans were able to return to life much as it had been before 9/11.But I never did.Every morning, I received a briefing on the threats to our nation.I vowed to do everything in my power to keep us safe.随着时间的流逝，大多数美国人可以回归911之前的生活，但我就不能。每天早上，我都收到一份关于我国面临威胁的简报。我发誓要尽我所能保证我们的安全。

Over the past seven years, a new Department of Homeland Security has been created.The military, the intelligence community, and the FBI have been transformed.Our nation is equipped with new tools to monitor the terrorists’ movements, freeze their finances, and break up their plots.And with strong allies at our side, we have taken the fight to the terrorists and those who support them.在过去七年，一个新的国土安全部成立了。我们的军队，军事情报部门，以及FBI都进行了改革。我们的国家装备了新的工具去监控恐怖分子的活动，冻结他们的金融，打破他们的阴谋。而且在强大盟友的支持下，我们向恐怖分子以及那些支持他们的人们发起了战斗。

Afghanistan has gone from a nation where the Taliban harbored al Qaeda and stoned women in the streets to a young democracy that is fighting terror and encouraging girls to go to school.Iraq has gone from a brutal dictatorship and a sworn enemy of America to an Arab democracy at the heart of the Middle East and a friend of the United States.阿富汗已经从塔利班窝藏基地组织、在大街上对妇女行石刑的国家变成一个年轻的民主体，与恐怖主义斗争，鼓励女孩子去上学。伊拉克已经从一个残暴的独裁国家和美国的死敌变成一个位于中东之心的阿拉伯民主体，变成美国的朋友。

There is legitimate debate about many of these decisions.But there can be little debate about the results.America has gone more than seven years without another terrorist attack on our soil.This is a tribute to those who toil night and day to keep us safe — law enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, homeland security and diplomatic personnel, and the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.很多这些决定引起合法性的争论，但其结果却是无须争论的。七年多里，美国领土没有再遭遇又一次恐怖袭击。这要归功于那些日夜辛勤工作保卫我们的安全的人们——执法人员，情报分析家，国土安全和外交人员，以及美国武装部队的男女成员。

toil [tɔil]: work hard辛苦工作

Our nation is blessed to have citizens who volunteer to defend us in this time of danger.I have cherished meeting these selfless patriots and their families.And America owes you a debt of gratitude.And to all our men and women in uniform listening tonight: There has been no higher honor than serving as your Commander-in-Chief.在危险时刻，公民自愿捍卫国家，这是我们国家之福。我珍惜与这些无私的爱国者以及他们的家人的会晤。美国感激你们。致今晚所有在聆听的全体男女军人：作为你们的三军总司令是至高无上的荣耀。

blessed ['blesid]: highly favored or fortunate幸福的，幸运的

The battles waged by our troops are part of a broader struggle between two dramatically different systems.Under one, a small band of fanatics demands total obedience to an oppressive ideology, condemns women to subservience, and marks unbelievers for murder.The other system is based on the conviction that freedom is the universal gift of Almighty God, and that liberty and justice light the path to peace.我们的部队发起的战斗属于更为广泛的、两种根本不同的制度之间的斗争的一部分。在其中一种制度下，一小撮狂热分子要求全体服从一种压制性的意识形态，迫使妇女卑屈，杀害不信仰者。而另一种制度则是基于这样的信念：自由是万能的上帝赋予所有人的礼物，自由与正义照亮和平之路。

band of [bænd] : a group of people formed because of a common belief or purpose 一伙，一群，一帮

fanatic [fə'nætik]: someone who has extreme political or religious ideas and is often dangerous [= extremist](对宗教、政治等)狂热者，盲信者

condemn [kən'dem]: compel or force into a particular state or activity使处于(某种特定地位或境界)subservience [səb'sə:viəns]: in a subservient state屈从，恭顺 conviction [kən'vikʃən]: an unshakable belief in something without need for proof or evidence深信，确信，坚强信念

This is the belief that gave birth to our nation.And in the long run, advancing this belief is the only practical way to protect our citizens.When people live in freedom, they do not willingly choose leaders who pursue campaigns of terror.When people have hope in the future, they will not cede their lives to violence and extremism.这是我们的立国信仰。从长期来看，推广这种信仰是保护我们公民的唯一可行办法。当人们生活在自由之中，他们就不会愿意选择追求恐怖主义运动的领袖。当人们对未来充满希望，他们就不会愿意把生命交给暴力与极端主义。

cede [si:d]: to give something such as an area of land or a right to a country or person, especially when you are forced to放弃

So around the world, America is promoting human liberty, human rights, and human dignity.We’re standing with dissidents and young democracies, providing AIDS medicine to dying patients — to bring dying patients back to life, and sparing mothers and babies from malaria.And this great republic born alone in liberty is leading the world toward a new age when freedom belongs to all nations.因此，美国在全世界推广人的自由、人的权利以及人的尊严。我们支持异见人士及年轻的民主体，提供爱滋病药物让濒临死亡的病人恢复生机，不让疟疾伤害母亲与婴儿。这个仅为自由而生的伟大共和国带领世界走向自由属于所有国家的新时期。

dissident['disidənt]: someone who publicly criticizes the government in a country where this is punished持不同政见者

For eight years, we’ve also strived to expand opportunity and hope here at home.Across our country, students are rising to meet higher standards in public schools.A new Medicare prescription drug benefit is bringing peace of mind to seniors and the disabled.Every taxpayer pays lower income taxes.8年了，我们努力寻找机会并且希望全国的公立学校的学生能够达到更高的标准。一个新的医疗福利计划让老年人和残障人士无后顾之忧。每个纳税人缴纳了更少的税款。

Medicare ['medi'kεə]: health care for the aged 老年保健医疗计划(政府的健康保险计划，尤指为65岁以上老人设置的医疗费减免计划)

The addicted and suffering are finding new hope through faith-based programs.Vulnerable human life is better protected.Funding for our veterans has nearly doubled.America’s air and water and lands are measurably cleaner.And the federal bench includes wise new members like Justice Sam Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts.通过基于信心的计划，（吸毒）上瘾和苦难者正发现新希望；脆弱的生命得到更好的保护。用于退伍军人的资金几乎翻了一番。美国的空气、水和陆地更加清洁。而且联邦法官席上有了像法官阿利托（Sam Alito）和首席法官罗伯茨（John Roberts）这样睿智的新成员。

addicted [ə'diktid]: unable to stop taking a harmful substance, especially a drug沉溺于某种（尤其是不良的）嗜好的;上了瘾的

vulnerable ['vʌlnərəbl]: someone who is vulnerable can be easily harmed or hurt易受伤害的；脆弱的

veteran ['vetərən]: someone who has been a soldier, sailor etc in a war老兵，老军人，老战士

measurably ['meʒərəbli]: to a measurable degree 可以测定的程度；可视地

bench [bentʃ]: the position of being a judge or magistrate in a court of law法院;法官的职位;[总称]法官(们)

When challenges to our prosperity emerged, we rose to meet them.Facing the prospect of a financial collapse, we took decisive measures to safeguard our economy.These are very tough times for hardworking families, but the toll would be far worse if we had not acted.All Americans are in this together.And together, with determination and hard work, we will restore our economy to the path of growth.We will show the world once again the resilience of America’s free enterprise system.当我们的繁荣面临挑战，我们起来面对。面对金融崩溃的前景，我们采取了果断措施保护我们的经济。努力工作的家庭面临非常困难的时刻，但如果我们不采取行动，损失会严重得多。所有美国人团结在一起，凭着决心以及努力的工作，我们将让经济重上增长之路。我们将再一次向世界展示美国自由企业体系的弹性。toll: a very bad effect that something has on something or someone over a long period of time损失；代价；牺牲

resilience [ri'ziliəns: the ability to become strong, happy, or successful again after a difficult situation or event(体力或精神等的)恢复能力

Like all who have held this office before me, I have experienced setbacks.There are things I would do differently if given the chance.Yet I’ve always acted with the best interests of our country in mind.I have followed my conscience and done what I thought was right.You may not agree with some of the tough decisions I have made.But I hope you can agree that I was willing to make the tough decisions.和此前负责这个办公室所有人一样，我曾经历挫折。如果还有机会，在一些事情上我会改变做法。然而，我在做事的时候总是心怀我们国家的最佳利益。我按照我的良心，并做了我认为正确的事情。你可能不会同意我所作出的一些艰难决定。但我希望你们明白我愿意作出这些艰难的决定。

The decades ahead will bring more hard choices for our country, and there are some guiding principles that should shape our course.While our nation is safer than it was seven years ago, the gravest threat to our people remains another terrorist attack.Our enemies are patient, and determined to strike again.America did nothing to seek or deserve this conflict.But we have been given solemn responsibilities, and we must meet them.We must resist complacency.We must keep our resolve.And we must never let down our guard.未来十年，我们的国家将面临更多艰难的选择，一些指引性的原则可以指明我们的方向。

尽管我们的国家比七年前安全，我们的民众所面临的最严重威胁仍然是再度发生的恐怖袭击。我们的敌人很有耐心，决心再次袭击。美国没有寻求挑起冲突，也不应该遭受这些冲突。但我们已经肩负庄严的责任，我们必须面对。我们必须抵制自满。我们必须保持决心。我们绝不能放松警惕。

complacency [kəm'pleisənsi]: the feeling you have when you are satisfied with yourself自满;自满情绪

let down: move something or somebody to a lower position放松

At the same time, we must continue to engage the world with confidence and clear purpose.In the face of threats from abroad, it can be tempting to seek comfort by turning inward.But we must reject isolationism and its companion, protectionism.Retreating behind our borders would only invite danger.In the 21st century, security and prosperity at home depend on the expansion of liberty abroad.If America does not lead the cause of freedom, that cause will not be led.同时，我们还应该继续怀着自信和清晰的目标来参与世界各地的事务。面对海外的威胁，转向内部寻求安慰是很有诱惑力的。但是我们必须拒绝孤立主义及作为其同伴的保护主义。在21世纪，国内的安全与繁荣有赖于自由在海外的扩大。如果美国不带领自由事业，这项事业就得不到指引。

engage [in'ɡeidʒ]: to attract someone's attention and keep them interested使卷入；使参与，使参加

As we address these challenges — and others we cannot foresee tonight — America must maintain our moral clarity.I’ve often spoken to you about good and evil, and this has made some uncomfortable.But good and evil are present in this world, and between the two of them there can be no compromise.Murdering the innocent to advance an ideology is wrong every time, everywhere.在我们解决这些挑战——以及其他一些我们无法在今晚预测的挑战时，美国必须维持我们的道德明确性。我经常跟你们说善与恶。这令一些人感到不舒服。但善恶存在于世上，两者之间不会有任何妥协。无论在何时何地，把杀害无辜者作为推广意识形态的手段都是错误的做法。

address [ə'dres]: if you address a problem, you start trying to solve it处理，对付

Freeing people from oppression and despair is eternally right.This nation must continue to speak out for justice and truth.We must always be willing to act in their defense — and to advance the cause of peace.让人们摆脱压迫和绝望是永远正确的。国家必须继续为正义和真理发言。我们必须始终愿意行动起来捍卫它们，推进和平的事业。

President Thomas Jefferson once wrote, “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.” As I leave the house he occupied two centuries ago, I share that optimism.America is a young country, full of vitality, constantly growing and renewing itself.And even in the toughest times, we lift our eyes to the broad horizon ahead.杰斐逊总统曾写道，“我喜欢未来的梦想更甚于过去的历史。”在我离开这个他于两个世纪前所在的地方时，我赞成他的这种乐观精神。美国是一个年轻的国家，充满活力、不断成长和自我更新。甚至在最艰难的时刻，我们都会放眼前面广阔的地平线。

I have confidence in the promise of America because I know the character of our people.This is a nation that inspires immigrants to risk everything for the dream of freedom.This is a nation where citizens show calm in times of danger, and compassion in the face of suffering.We see examples of America’s character all around us.And Laura and I have invited some of them to join us in the White House this evening.我对美国的诺言有信心，因为我知道我们人民的特质。这是一个鼓励移民为自由的梦想而冒险的国家。这是一个公民可以在危险的时刻表现平静，在苦难面前展示怜悯的国家。我们看到，我们周围就有美国特质的榜样。劳拉和我已经邀请当中一些人今晚到白宫。

compassion [kəm'pæʃən]: the humane quality of understanding the suffering of others and wanting to do something about it同情；怜悯

We see America’s character in Dr.Tony Recasner, a principal who opened a new charter school from the ruins of Hurricane Katrina.We see it in Julio Medina, a former inmate who leads a faith-based program to help prisoners returning to society.We’ve seen it in Staff Sergeant Aubrey McDade, who charged into an ambush in Iraq and rescued three of his fellow Marines.我们看到里卡斯钠博士（Dr.Tony Recasner）的美国特质，这位校长在卡特里娜飓风的废墟中开办一所新的特许学校。我们看到麦地那（Julio Medina）身上的美国特质，这位前囚犯带领一个以信仰为基础的项目，帮助囚犯重回社会。我们也可以在奥布里-麦克达德参谋军士身上看到这种性格，他冲入包围圈，营救出了三名海军陆战队战友。

character ['kærəktə]: 特性;性格，品质

charter school: an experimental public school for kindergarten through grade 12;created and organized by teachers and parents and community leaders;operates independently of other schools 契约学校，特许学校

Staff Sergeant ['sɑ:dʒənt]:(美国海军部队)中士;（美）参谋军士 We see America’s character in Bill Krissoff — a surgeon from California.His son, Nathan — a Marine — gave his life in Iraq.When I met Dr.Krissoff and his family, he delivered some surprising news: He told me he wanted to join the Navy Medical Corps in honor of his son.This good man was 60 years old — 18 years above the age limit.我们在克里索夫（Bill Krissoff）这位来自加州的外科医生身上看到美国特质。他的儿子内森（Nathan）是一位海军陆战队队员，在伊拉克献出了生命。当我见到克里索夫和他家人的时候，他告诉了我一个惊人的消息：他告诉我，为了缅怀儿子，他希望加入美国海军医疗团。这位好人60岁了——比年龄上限大了18岁。

But his petition for a waiver was granted, and for the past year he has trained in battlefield medicine.Lieutenant Commander Krissoff could not be here tonight, because he will soon deploy to Iraq, where he will help save America’s wounded warriors — and uphold the legacy of his fallen son.但他的豁免申请得到了批准，而且在过去的一年里，他已经接受战地医学训练。克里斯夫少校今晚不能出席，因为他很快就要部署到伊拉克，在那里，他将帮忙拯救美国受伤的勇士，维护他已逝儿子的遗产。

petition [pi'tiʃən]: an official letter to a law court, asking for a legal case to be considered请愿；申请；请求

waiver: an official written statement saying that a right, legal process etc can be waived豁免;豁免规定

Lieutenant Commander [lef'tenənt]: a commissioned officer in the navy ranking above a lieutenant and below a commander(美国海军)海军少校

In citizens like these, we see the best of our countrycitizen of the United States of America.担任你们的总统是我一生的荣幸。我们有过好日子也有过艰难日子。但每一天，我都因我们国家的伟大而受到鼓舞，都因我们民众的善良感到振奋。我非常幸运地能够代表这个我们深爱的国家。我将永远为这个对我来说意味着更多的身份而感到自豪：美利坚合众国公民。

privilege ['privilidʒ]: something that you are lucky to have the chance to do, and that you enjoy very much 荣幸；荣耀；光荣

uplift: to make somebody feel happier or more hopeful 鼓舞；激励；使振奋

And so, my fellow Americans, for the final time: Good night.May God bless this house and our next President.And may God bless you and our wonderful country.Thank you.(Applause.)所以，亲爱的美国同胞，让我最后一次对你们说：晚安。愿上帝保佑白宫和我们的下一任总统。愿上帝保佑你们和我们美好的国家。谢谢你们。

第三篇：克林顿告别白宫演说

Farewell Address By The President to the Nation

My fellow citizens, tonight is my last opportunity to speak to you from the Oval Office as your

president.a I am profoundly grateful to you for twice giving me the honor to serve, to work for you and with you to prepare our nation for 21st century.And I'm grateful to Vice President Gore, to my Cabinet secretaries, and to all those who have served with me for the last eight years.This has been a time of dramatic transformation, and you have risen to have every new challenge.You have made our social fabric stronger, our families healthier and safer, our people more prosperous.You, the American people, have made our pessage into the global information age an era of great American renewal.In all the work I have done as president, every dicision I have made, every executive action I have taken, every bill I have proposed and signed, I've try to give all Americans the tools and conditions to build the future of our dreams, in a good society, with a strong economy, a cleaner enviroment, and a freer, safer, more prosperous world.I have steered my course by our enduring values.Opportunity for all.Reponsibility from all.A community of all Americans.I have sought to give America a new kind of goverment, smaller, more modern, more effective, full of iders and policies appropriate to this new time, always putting people first, always focusing on the future.Working together, America has done well.Our economy is breaking records, with more than 22 million new jobs, the lowest unemployment in 30 years, the highest home ownership ever, the longest expansion in history.Our families and communities are stronger.Thirty-five million Americans have used family leave low.Eight million have moved off welfare.Crime is at a 25-year low.Over 10 million Americans recieve more college aid, and more people than ever are going to college.Our schools are better-higher standards, greater accountability and larger invistments have brought higher test scores, and higher graduation rates.More than three million children have health insurance now, and more than 7 million Americans have

been lifted out of poverty.Incomes are rising aross the board.Our air and water are cleaner.Our food and drinking water are safer.And more of our precious land has been preserved, in the continetal United States, than any time in 100 years.I'm very grateful to be able to turn over the reins of leadership to a new president, with America in such a strong position to meet the challenges of the future.Tonight, I want to leave you with three thoughts about our future.First, America must maintain our record of fiscal responsibility.Through our last four budgets, we've turned record deficits to record surpluses, and we've been able to pay down $600 billion of our national debt, on track to be debt free by the end of the decade for the first time since 1835.Staying on that course will bring lower interest rates, greater prosperity and the opportunity to meet our big challenges.If we choose wisely, we can pay down the debt, deal with the retirement of the baby boomers, invest more in our future and provide tax relief.Second, because the world is more connected every day in every way, America's security and prosperity require us to continue to lead in world.At this remarkable moment in history, more people live in freedom than ever before.Our alliances are stronger than ever.People all around the world to look in America to be a force for peace and prospeity, freedom and security.The global economy is giving more of our own people, and billions around the world, the chance to work and live and rise thier families dignity.But the forces of intergration that have greated these good opportunitis also make us more subject to global forces of destruction, to terrorism, organized crime and narcotrfficking, the spread of deadly weapon and disease, the degradation of the global enviroment.The expansion of trade hasn't fully closed the gap between those of us who live on the cutting edge of the global economy and the billions around the world who live on the knife's edge of survival.This global requires more than compassion.It requires action.Global poverty is a powder keg that could be ignety by our indifferece.In his first inaugural address, Thomas Jefferson warned of entangling alliances.But in our times, America cannot and must not disentangle itself from the world.We must work harder to overcome our differences.In our hearts and in our lows, we must traet our people fairness and dignity, regardless of their race, religion, gender or sexual oreintation and regardless of when they arrived in our contry, always moving toward the more perfect union of our founders'dreamd

Hillary Chelsea and I join all Americans in wishing our cery best to the next president, Geoge W.Bush to his family and his administration in meeting these challenges and in leading freedom's march in this new contry.As for me, I'll leave the presidency more idealistic, more full of hope than the day I arrived and more confident than ever that America's best days lie ahead.My days in this office are nearly through, but my days of service, I hope, are not.In the years ahead, I will never hold a position higher or a covenant more scared than that of president of the United States.But there is no title I will wear more proudly than that of citizen.Thank you.God bless you, and God bless America.

第四篇：911全国演说-美国总统布什

911全国演说－美国总统布什

911全国演说－美国总统布什：President Bush's address 11/9/2001, Tuesday night, After terrorist attacks on New York and Washington Good evening.Today, our fellow citizens, our way of life President Bush's address 11/9/2001, Tuesday night, After terrorist attacks on New York and Washington

Good evening.Today, our fellow citizens, our way of life, our very freedom came under attack in a series of deliberate and deadly terrorist acts.The victims were in airplanes or in their offices--secretaries, businessmen and women, military and federal workers.Moms and dads.Friends and neighbors.Thousands of lives were suddenly ended by evil, despicable acts of terror.The pictures of airplanes flying into buildings, fires burning, huge structures collapsing, have filled us with disbelief, terrible sadness and a quiet, unyielding anger.These acts of mass murder were intended to frighten our nation into chaos and retreat.But they have failed.Our country is strong.A great people has been moved to defend a great nation.Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America.These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve.America was targeted for attack because we're the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world.And no one will keep that light from shining.Today, our nation saw evil, the very worst of human nature, and we responded with the best of America, with the daring of our rescue workers, with the caring for strangers and neighbors who came to give blood and help in any way they could.Immediately following the first attack, I implemented our government's emergency response plans.Our military is powerful, and it's prepared.Our emergency teams are working in New York City and Washington, D.C., to help with local rescue efforts.Our first priority is to get help to those who have been injured and to take every precaution to protect our citizens at home and around the world from further attacks.The functions of our government continue without interruption.Federal agencies in Washington which had to be evacuated today are reopening for essential personnel tonight and will be open for business tomorrow.Our financial institutions remain strong, and the American economy will be open for business as well.The search is underway for those who are behind these evil acts.I've directed the full resources for our intelligence and law enforcement communities to find those responsible and bring them to justice.We will make no distinction between the terrorists who committed these acts and those who harbor them.I appreciate so very much the members of Congress who have joined me in strongly condemning these attacks.And on behalf of the American people, I thank the many world leaders who have called to offer their condolences and assistance.America and our friends and allies join with all those who want peace and security in the world and we stand together to win the war against terrorism.Tonight I ask for your prayers for all those who grieve, for the children whose worlds have been shattered, for all whose sense of safety and security has been threatened.And I pray they will be comforted by a power greater than any of us spoken through the ages in Psalm 23: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me.”

This is a day when all Americans from every walk of life unite in our resolve for justice and peace.America has stood down enemies before, and we will do so this time.None of us will ever forget this day, yet we go forward to defend freedom and all that is good and just in our world.Thank you.Good night and God bless America.评价讲解

2001年9月11日是人类文明世界的一个耻辱日，这一日，据说是伊斯兰的极端恐怖分子，骑劫了四架美国民航客机，用自杀方式，攻击纽约世贸中心的一对摩天大厦，以及华盛顿国防部的五角大楼。

美国蒙受奇耻大辱，举国上下久未经历如此大的灾难，人民可能会陷于崩溃，这时若没有一个强而有力的政府和领袖，很容易会酿成更大的灾难。美国总统布什上任短短七个月，其路线、形像和政策，均备受批评，但在如此重大时刻，布什则显示出非凡的领导能力，事发当晚，他正式向全国国民发表了一篇演说。

布什这次演说，未必可和我们介绍过的林肯和马丁路德金相比，但就文采和语调而言，无疑亦是一篇有份量之作，演词有几点值得讨论。

例如?The victims were in airplanes or in their offices--secretaries, businessmen and women, military and federal workers.Moms and dads.Friends and neighbours.布什在这篇演说中用了宏观的手法，描述在灾难中死亡的美国人，句中采用的名词，所代表的阶级非常广泛，是经过深思熟虑挑选出来的。

Secretaries秘书、businessmen 商人，接着提妇女women，大家也许知道，女权运动在美国非常兴盛，这一句women妇女，是直接向美国的妇女动之以情。最后一定要讲Moms and dads，不用fathers and mothers，Moms and dads原本是一些不登大雅之堂的俗语，但演讲要视对象而定，布什是向全国人民以至全世界人民演讲，一定要用尽量浅白的言语。Moms and dads，每个字只有一个音节，比fathers and mothers更加简洁。

细心想想这些词汇，可说将所有人一网打尽，而且布什用了一连串这样的字眼?爹地、妈咪、邻居和朋友……即使你不认识灾场中的死伤者，感觉上也会跟他们非常亲切。这就是一个演说家所表现出来的非凡的智能。

另外一句也很重要?Thousands of lives were suddenly ended by evil, despicable acts of terror.这里可显示出英语被动语式的灵活，布什将数千条无辜的生命放在前面，而evil则是邪恶。英语中evil这个字不能随便用，他当然可说bad、wicked或criminal，但这些只是级数比较低的字眼，指称这样严重的罪行，一定要将文字兵器库内那口核弹抬出来，这个核弹级的形容词就是evil。

历史上只有希特拉配得上用evil这形容词，所以当我们在香港听到有些人说法轮功是邪教，译成英文变成It is an evil cult时，肯定令英语世界的人闻之失笑，用evil来形容一个信仰，绝对言过其实、非常夸张。字典可告诉你evil是甚么意思，但放在文本中，其上下文所传达出来的意思，就一定要在英语世界生活过，才能准确使用。

前港督彭定康离任前在立法局发表最后一份施政报告时，也曾引用美国诗人杰克?伦敦（Jack London）的诗句，一篇有力的演词，有时必须引用古今名人的例句和经典，加强自己的说法的感染力。布什总统引用了圣经诗篇中的句子?Tonight I ask for your prayers for all those who grieve, for the children whose worlds have been shattered, for all whose sense of safety and security has been threatened.And I pray they will be comforted by a power greater than any of us spoken through the ages in Psalm 23: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me.”

这里用了一个委婉词Euphemism?a power greater than any of us，指的是举头三尺的神明，其实用一个God字已可代替，但这里不用God字，因为要留待最后一句才用。在英语演讲中，有些字眼要不断重复，有些字则要灵活变化。

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me.” You当然是用大楷，因为指上帝，the valley of the shadow of death是死亡阴影的幽谷。在小说天路历程The Pilgrim's Progress中，描述了一个基督徒，在寻找永生的旅途上，也路经了the valley of the shadow of death。

布什所用的结句是?None of us will ever forget this day, yet we go forward to defend freedom and all that is good and just in our world.Thank you.Good night and God bless America.来到这里，结论应有千钧之重，但用一句最简单的日常生活的问候语、道别语?Thank you.Good night and God bless America作结，如此俗套的用语，在这里却有画龙点睛的效果。

布什的演讲最后有个关于文法的地方，值得拿出来讨论?We go forward to defend freedom.我们会挺身而出捍卫自由。go forward to后面得配一个简单的动词，很多香港人不知道forward to充满机关，如?We look forward to seeing you soon!look forward to后面一定要seeing you soon，因为前面一句forward是go的副词，后一句look forward to三个字代表一个动词hope。但用hope时，紧记要用We hope to see you soon!

第五篇：美国总统布什的告别演说词

美国总统布什的告别演说词！

八年的总统生涯，是美国人民赋予我的荣耀！21世纪的前10年是一个并不寻常的时期。今晚，我带着一颗感恩的心来到这里，并且我希望你们能给我最后一次机会，因为我想和你们分享我对过去八总统生涯的想法，以及我对国家未来的展望。5天以后，全世界就将会看到美国民主的活力。我即将把我的工作交由你们心目中的理想总统，奥巴马！能够接受全美人民崇敬的人，必须能够为你们，为这片土地带来希望。对于我们的国家来说，这是一个充满希望和自豪的时刻。并且，我渴望与美国人民一道为奥巴马，他的妻子和两个漂亮的女儿送去美好的祝愿。

今天，我满怀感激之情，感谢我的副总统切尼以及我所有的政府成员。我还要感谢我的妻子劳拉和我的女儿芭芭拉，詹娜，是她们给我的生活带来了无尽的快乐和爱意。我感谢我的父母，是他们给予了我前进的动力。最重要的是，我感谢美国人民给予我的信任.，我感谢你们给予我的勇气、宽容。

今晚，我的思绪回到了2001年的9月11日。当天早晨，恐怖分子带走了近3000人的生命。自珍珠港事件后，恐怖分子制造了美国历史上最严重的一次恐怖袭击。我想起了3天后我站在世贸中心废墟前的情景，那时，我诚挚地与那些夜以继日抢救伤者的救援工人们交谈，他们不顾自己的危险，在浓烟滚滚的五角大楼的走廊里抓紧工作。同时，我也为不幸遇难的人感到痛心，他们是我们的英雄！我想起了阿琳-霍华德，他当时把他死去儿子的警察盾牌交给了我，以表达对逝者的思念之情。而现在，我仍然珍藏着他的徽章。

随着时间的推移，大部分的美国人民能够从悲痛中解脱出来，并重归“9.11”之前正常的生活。然而，我还没有解脱。每天清晨，我都会收到简报，获知是什么还在威胁着我们国家的安全，并且我发誓一定会竭尽全力来维护你们的安全。

针对我的许多决策，有人对其合法性表示出怀疑。但是，当我们看到结果时这些人就不会再发出疑问了。在过去的七年多来，美国本土再也没有遭受过恐怖袭击。这要归功于那些日夜辛劳保护我们安全的人们：执法人员、情报分析员、国土安全人员、外交人员、以及美军的士兵们。受上帝的恩典，美国有这些愿意在国家危难之际挺身保护他人的公民。我非常珍惜美国可以拥有这些无私的爱国者及其家庭。美国感激你们。对于那些正在收听的演讲的美军士兵们来说，没有什么荣誉要比让你当上总司令还要崇高。

美军正在从事的战争从属于两种系统之间的冲突，而这两种系统又有天壤之别。在其中的一种系统中，一小撮狂热分子要求所有人都服从于他们所制定的暴虐的意识形态，这些人让妇女屈从，而对那些不相信他们暴政的人进行谋杀。而另一种系统则相信自由是上帝给予全世界的礼物，自由与正义是通往和平的道路。美国，正是基于这样的信念诞生的。从长远来看，推广这种理念是保护我们公民的唯一选择。当人们生活在自由之中时，他们就不愿再去选择那些追求恐怖活动的领导者。当人们对未来怀有希望时，他们就不会将自己的生命交给暴力和极端主义。环视全球，美国正在推动人类自由、人权及人的尊严的发展。我们同持有不同政见者以及年轻的民主国家同在，我们为挽救生命而提供治疗艾滋病的药物，我们避免母亲和自己的孩子染上疟疾。自由是美国成立的唯一基石，并且领导世界向一个自由普照全球的时代发展。

过去的八年，我们努力扩大美国人民所拥有的机会与希望。在美国，学生不断上进，以求符合公立学校更高的标准。对于老人和残疾人来说，一种新的医疗处方药福利令他们颇感舒心。每个纳税人缴纳了更少的税款。通过以信仰为基础的治疗项目，那些瘾君子和痛苦的人们找到了新希望。过去八年来的工作更好地保护了人脆弱的生命。对于退伍老兵的补助几乎增加了一倍。美国的一山一水都真切地变得更为干净。睿智的山姆-阿力拓、首席法官约翰-罗伯茨加入到联邦法院中。

当美国的繁荣遇到挑战时，我们勇敢地去面对。当金融危机发生时，我们采取果断措施来保护我们的经济。对于那些辛勤工作的家庭来说，这些都是十分艰难的时期。但是如果我们不采取行动的话，结果将会更为糟糕。所有的美国人都站在了一起。凭借着我们的决心和辛勤工作，我们将美国经济重新拉回到增长的车道上。我们将向世界再次展现美国自由企业制度的复兴。

正如所有前任总统一样，我也曾经历过挫折。如果可能的话，我会采取不一样的方式来应对这些措施。但是，我总是为国家利益的最大化来行动。你也许会不同意我所做出的一些决定，但我希望你能理解我是愿意采取这些措施的。未来的几十年，美国将面对更多的艰难抉择，而有一些指导性原则可以塑造我们的道路。

尽管我们的国家要比7年前更为安全，但目前美国最严峻的威胁仍然是另一场恐怖袭击。我们的敌人十分耐心，并且决心要再次发动袭击。美国没有故意挑起冲突。但是我们肩负着庄严的责任，必须同恐怖主义作斗争。我们不能骄傲自

满，我们要坚定决心，我们绝不能放松警惕。与此同时，我们必须带着信心和清晰的目标参与世界事务。面对来自海外的威胁，在国内寻求安慰是一种诱人的举措。但是我们必须拒绝孤立主义与保护主义。退缩只会找来危险。在21世纪，国内的安全和繁荣需要依靠国外自由的扩展。如果美国不领导自由事业，那么自由事业就将无所适从。

一方面我们在处理这些眼前和未来的挑战，另一方面美国必须保持自己在道义上的明确性。我经常谈及善恶问题，这令一些人颇感不适。但是目前这个世界确实存在着善恶双方，而且双方之间无法达成妥协。通过谋杀无辜来宣扬某种意识形态无论在何时何地都是错误的。将人们从压迫与绝望中解救出来是永远正确的。美国必须坚持为正义与真理而呼喊，我们必须保护正义与真理，并且推动和平事业的发展。

托马斯-杰斐逊曾写到：“相比于过去的历史，我更喜欢未来的梦想。”随着我马上要离开白宫，我赞同杰斐逊这样的乐观精神。美国是一个年轻的国家，充满了活力，不断发展与更新。即便在最艰难的时候，美国仍然没有放弃对未来的梦想。

我了解我们民族的特质，因此我也相信美国的明天会更美好。这是一个鼓励移民们为自由的梦想而去尝试一切事情的国家，这是一个在面对危险使仍然镇定的国家，这是一个面对苦难仍抱有同情心的国家。我们在身边的每一个人身上都可以看到美国的特征。今晚，受我和夫人劳拉的邀请，一切代表也来到了白宫。我在外科医生克里索夫身上看到了美国人民的伟大个性。克里索夫的儿子，一名海军，在伊拉克光荣地献出了自己的生命。当我见到克里索夫和他家人的时候，他告诉了我一个惊人的消息：他告诉我，为了缅怀儿子，他希望加入美国海军医疗团。克里索夫已经60岁了，超过了年龄限制，但是他的申请得到了批准。在过去的一年中，克里索夫接受了良好的训练，但已经荣升少校的他今晚不能来到这里，他很快就会前往伊拉克，在那里他可以救助我们受伤的勇士并继续他儿子为完成的事业。

同时，从美国公民身上，我看到了我们国家优秀的一面—我们的国家充满关怀和希望，这样的优点令我对国家有着坚贞的信念。我们面临着危险和审判，而且在未来我们仍将需要应对更多的挑战。然而，依靠你们的勇气和信心，伟大的美国永远会稳如磐石，从来不会走向没落。

对我来说，能够担任你们的总统，是我一生的荣耀。我有过欢乐也有过困苦。

但是，每天我都会受到伟大祖国的鼓舞，并且我也一直在为我们的国家祈祷。在以后的时光里，我会永远珍视这样一段话：美利坚合众国的公民。

我亲爱的同胞们，我的演说就到这里了，晚安！愿上帝保佑奥巴马！愿上帝保佑你和我们美好的国家！