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We observe today not a victory of party but a celebration of football — symbolizing an end as well as a beginning — signifying renewal as well as change. For I have sworn before you and Almighty Football the same solemn oath our forefathers once pledged at RFK Stadium and FedExField, back when glory was measured in Super Bowls and burgundy and gold ruled the gridiron.

The world is very different now. For man holds in his mortal hands the power to throw a perfect spiral, to break a 50-yard run, or to execute the Hail Mary. Yet the same loyalty that carried fans through decades of highs and heartbreaks must still guide us.

Let every loyal son and daughter of the DMV know: the torch has been passed to a new generation of fans, born in the shadow of legends like Joe Theismann, Darrell Green, and Art Monk, hardened by empty playoff hopes, yet unwilling to witness or permit the slow death of this storied franchise.

Let every rival team know: whether you hail from Dallas or Philadelphia, New York or elsewhere, we shall pay any ticket price, bear any cold December weather, cheer any losing season, to assure the survival and the success of the Redskins spirit.

To our long-suffering fans, I say this: ask not what your team can do for you — ask what you can do for your team. Buy the jersey. Tailgate at dawn. Believe in the rebuild. And to our players, I say: ask not what your fans can chant for you — ask what you will sacrifice for the name across your chest and the legacy behind your helmet.

Finally, whether you stand in Section 300 or on the 50-yard line, let us go forth to lead this team back to glory, swearing in burgundy and gold the same oath: that we will not rest until the Lombardi Trophy is once again raised high in Washington.

Hail to the Redskins!