MEMORIAL DAY 2026 FAITH OF THE FOUNDERS: George Washington 1st Inaugural Address

George Washington – First in War, First in Peace, First in the Hearts of his Countrymen (Library of Congress)

“It would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official act my fervent supplication to that Almighty

Being who rules over the universe, who presides in the councils of nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, that His benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of the United States a government instituted by themselves for these essential purposes, and may enable every instrument employed in its administration to execute with success the functions allotted to his charge…

“No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men more than those of the United States… You will join with me, I trust, in thinking that there are none under the influence of which the proceedings of a new and free government can more auspiciously commence.” — George Washington, First Inaugural Address, 1789.