[Released April 8, 1961. Dated April 6, 1961]
Dear Mr. Chancellor:
The American people cherish
the bonds of friendship, mutual respect, and devotion to common democratic
ideals which unite our two countries. These bonds have grown in strength
and vitality during the years of your leadership. Your dedicated service
to Austria and to the principles and institutions of Western democracy
have earned the respect and gratitude of free men everywhere. Under your
stewardship Austria has steadfastly executed her mission as a bastion of
freedom, a refuge for the oppressed, and an exemplar of the noblest traditions
of Western civilization. As you prepare to lay down the demanding duties
of the Chancellorship, please accept on my own behalf, and on the behalf
of the people of the United States, our sincere best wishes.
Sincerely,
JOHN F. KENNEDY