After the desperate years of their own war after six years of repression inside Spain and six years of horror in exile these people remain intact in spirit. They are armed with a transcendent faith they have never won and yet they have never accepted defeat.

Sectarian divide has created a schism in our society that is a major challenge. As monarch of all Bahrainis it pains me to see many harmed by the actions of a few. And yet I am optimistic and have faith in our people. We all realize that now is the time to strike a balance between stability and gradual reform.

We are twice armed if we fight with faith.

Knowledge without education is but armed injustice.

My dad farmed my granddad was a farmer. I wanted to be a farmer.

Sons have always a rebellious wish to be disillusioned by that which charmed their fathers.

It is remarkable that this people though unarmed dares attack an armed foe the infantry defy the cavalry and by their activity and courage generally prove victors.

Throughout the history of our young nation we have seen our military go bravely into battle armed with courage and willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.

The criteria for serving one's country should be competence courage and willingness to serve. When we deny people the chance to serve because of their sexual orientation we deprive them of their rights of citizenship and we deprive our armed forces the service of willing and capable Americans.

The valor and courage of our young women and men in the armed services are a shining example to all of the world and we owe them and their families our deepest respect.