23. Letter From President Carter to Secretary of State Vance1
I accept your resignation with regret, but with deep appreciation for your dedicated and effective service to me and to our country.
As mentioned in your letter, we have had notable accomplishments under your leadership as Secretary of State. I share your pride in what has been achieved.
Because you could not support my decision regarding the rescue operation in Iran, you have made the correct decision to resign. I know this is a matter of principle with you, and I respect the reasons you have expressed to me.
You leave your post with the admiration and best wishes of a grateful nation. Our close friendship and partnership during challenging times have been a source of strength and reassurance to me.
I look forward to your continuing advice and counsel on matters of importance to the United States—our country, which you have served so well.
Your friend,
- Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Brzezinski Material, Agency File, Box 18, State, 1–4/80. No classification marking. The letter was handwritten by Carter. Both Vance’s (see Document 22) and Carter’s letters are also printed in Public Papers: Carter, 1980–81, Book I, pp. 781–782.↩