This week, five years after his passing (4 June 2004), Ronald Reagan is still in the news as a nostalgic series of events was held in connection with the unveiling of his statue in the nation’s Capitol. In a bi-partisan ceremony, leaders of Congress, veterans of the Reagan Administration, and Mrs. Ronald Reagan herself joined in recollections of how our 40th President revitalized the U.S. economy, set in motion our victory in the Cold War, and revived the American spirit. His example of graciousness, optimism, and dignity set a high standard for all leaders of our country. And a grateful nation still remembers.

Former Attorney General Edwin Meese, III is the Ronald Reagan Distinguished Fellow in Public Policy and Chairman of the Center for Legal and Judicial Studies at the Heritage Foundation.