Illustration: Commitment

Gerald Ford ascended to the presidency at a difficult time in American history. He had been appointed vice president because of his reputation for honesty and integrity, to replace a vice president who had resigned in disgrace. Not long after that, it became clear Ford eventually would become president. When Ford was told he was going to ascend to the presidency at Nixon's resignation, one of the first things he did was to go to church and pray. He later asked the county to support him with prayer. On his grave are written these simple words: "Lives Committed to God, Country and Love."