The Most Basic Expression of Americanism

American Minute from William J. Federer

Leslie Lynch King, Jr., born JULY 14, 1913, became the 38th President of the United States. Renamed by his stepfather, he was the only Eagle Scout to be President. He attended the University of Michigan on a football scholarship, graduated from Yale Law School and served in the Navy during World War II. His name was Gerald Rudolph Ford.

Ford was House Minority Leader until Richard Nixon resigned and he was chosen to replace him, becoming the only President not elected.

Gerald Rudolph Ford stated upon assuming the Presidency, August 9, 1974: "I am acutely aware that you have not elected me as your President by your ballots, and so I ask you to confirm me as your President with your prayers."

On September 8, 1974, President Ford stated: "The Constitution is the supreme law of our land and it governs our actions as citizens. Only the laws of God, which govern our consciences, are superior to it. As we are a Nation under God, so I am sworn to uphold our laws with the help of God."

In a Proclamation of Prayer, December 5, 1974, President Ford quoted President Eisenhower: "Without God there could be no American form of government... Recognition of the Supreme Being is the first-the most basic-expression of Americanism."

William J. Federer is a nationally recognized author, speaker, and president of Amerisearch, Inc, which is dedicated to researching our American heritage. The American Minute radio feature looks back at events in American history on the dates they occurred, is broadcast daily across the country and read by thousand on the internet.