Presidential Message on the Anniversary of the United States Secret Service

On the 161st anniversary of the United States Secret Service, we celebrate the extraordinary professionals who, with absolute selflessness and little fanfare, work to protect our Nation's leaders and safeguard our most sacred institutions. With their quiet professionalism, unwavering vigilance, and steadfast devotion to duty, they have truly proven themselves "Worthy of Trust and Confidence."

On July 5, 1865, the United States Secret Service was officially established, fulfilling legislation that President Abraham Lincoln had signed shortly before his tragic assassination. Originally tasked with investigating and suppressing the widespread forgery of American currency, its agents first worked to ensure economic stability in the post-Civil War era, fortify our financial institutions, and secure the integrity of the dollar-a mission that they continue to pursue today.

Following the assassination of President William McKinley in 1901, Congress expanded the responsibilities of the Secret Service, assigning the critical mission of protecting the President, a duty that has since grown to encompass the Vice President, the First and Second Families, foreign dignitaries, and special protectees. Today, more than 8,000 highly skilled and exceptionally trained special agents; uniformed police officers;technical law enforcement personnel; intelligence and threat analysists, and administrative professionals, safeguard both our Nation's financial infrastructure and the security of those entrusted with the highest offices, standing watch over the institutions that preserve America's stability and strength.

These heroes stand ready at a moment's notice to place themselves in harm's way to protect our Nation's leaders, and I am grateful for their continued service and sacrifice. Time and again, the men and women of the Secret Service have risked their own lives to protect others, exhibiting harrowing bravery, remarkable courage, and an unbreakable commitment to their solemn duty. And as radical left-wing violence has surged in recent years, the mission of the Secret Service has never been more vital.

This year, we are especially thankful for the tremendous role the Secret Service is playing as our Nation celebrates 250 glorious years of American Independence. From the Great American State Fair to the Salute to America Rally on the National Mall, our agents are working tirelessly to ensure the success and safety of the grandest, greatest, and biggest birthday celebration in the history of the world.

Today, we honor the valiant members of the United States Secret Service for their steadfast service and commitment to freedom, peace, and the rule of law. Their heroism and countless sacrifices in defense of our beloved Nation and sacred Constitution will continue to inspire generations of Americans. So long as such patriots stand watch, the flame of American freedom will never be extinguished, and our Republic will endure stronger, prouder, and freer than ever before.