Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) released the following statement today on the National Park Service’s centennial:
“Congratulations to the National Park Service on celebrating its centennial today. It was 100 years ago today that President Woodrow Wilson officially formed the National Park Service, which has been devoted to preserving our nation’s natural wonders for generations of Americans. President Wilson followed the example of my political hero, Teddy Roosevelt, who made conservation a pinnacle of his presidency. Roosevelt once said, ‘We have fallen heirs to the most glorious heritage a people ever received, and each one must do his part if we wish to show that the nation is worthy of its good fortune.’ For the last century, the hardworking men and women of the National Park Service have protected and maintained some of the most spectacular landmarks our country has to offer.
“In Arizona, we are blessed with breathtaking sites, including three national parks, 13 national monuments, two national recreational areas, two national historic sites, a national memorial, a national historical park and a national heritage area. Reflecting on the beauty of our state, former Senator Barry Goldwater once stated, ‘Arizona is 113,400 square miles of heaven that God cut out.’ That love for our state and its natural wonders, and the commitment to preserving them for future generations, is something shared deeply by everyone lucky enough to call Arizona home.
“As we mark the National Park Service’s 100th birthday, we salute the public servants who have dedicated themselves to ensuring these and other treasures across our country are enjoyed by generations to come.”
To mark its centennial, the National Park Service is offering free admission to all 412 national parks from August 25 through August 28. To learn more about events taking place across Arizona and the country, and to find your park, click here.
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