Speech #4 - JFK

Intro

"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." This quote from your story.com is probaly one of John F. Kennedy's most famous quotes, and one that I think encompasses his spirit and true patriotism.

Intro 2

John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 35th president of the United States accomplished many things throughout his life, and career as president. Policies that he implemented, and his inclusive, progressive views gave many people, especially minorities, hope for a better life.

Main Point 3- Finally, I want to talk about how Kennedy fought for the rights of African Americans.

Kennedy actively worked towards civil rights for African Americans. - according to britannica.com, on March 6, 1961, he signed Executive Order 10925 which required government contractors to take affirmative action to ensure all employees are treated equally irrespective of their race, creed, color, or national origin. His Executive Order 11063 of November 1962 banned segregation in federally funded housing. - On June 11, 1963, JFK gave his famous civil rights address calling Americans to recognize civil rights as a moral cause. - His proposal to provide equal access to public schools and other facilities, and greater protection of voting rights became part of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Main Point I: First I want to talk about Kennedy's military achievements.

Kennedy was actually awarded the Navy and Marine corps medal for heroism during WWII. - According to biography.com, JFK joined the US Naval Reserve in 1941 and during WW2 was given command of Motor Torpedo Boat PT-109. - After PT -109 was rammed and cut in half by Japanese destroyer Amagiri, Kennedy and his surviving 10 crew-members swam to an island where they were rescued. - Despite being injured , Kennedy used a life jacket strap to tow his badly-burned senior enlisted companion - John F Kennedy was awarded the highest non-combat decoration for heroism, the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, by the US Navy, as well as the Purple Heart Medal for injuries.

Intro 3

Regardless of partisanship and political ideals, I think that we can all learn from a man with the attributes that JFK possessed, those being honesty, bravery, and a real sense of patriotism.

Conclusion

Today, we honor John F. Kennedy by recognizing his efforts and accomplishments. II. We talked about his military accomplishments, the equal pay act, and his work to towards civil rights for African Americans. III. Like I said before, regardless of which political party you identify with, it in undeniable that JFK is someone we can all admire and respect for his patriotism, honesty, and for showcasing the qualities every President should possess.

Main Point 2- Next I will talk about one of the Equal Pay Act that JFK signed into Law.

Under his presidency, Kennedy was responsible for the equal pay act of 1963. - According to jkflibrary.org, on June 10, 1963,JFK signed the Equal Pay Act of 1963 into law to abolish wage disparity based on sex. - EPA was a major step towards closing the wage gap in women's pay, and although equal pay for equal work goals have not been completely achieved, women's salaries via-a-vis men's have risen dramatically since its enactment.

Intro 4

Which is why today I will be talking to you about just 3 of JFF's many accomplishments: His military accomplishments, the equal pay act, and his efforts towards providing civil rights for African Americans.