Deputy Attorney General
1975
Citation:
There are times of light and times of darkness in every life. There are times to build and times to uproot, times to speak out and times to be silent. During times of light, you have build strongly, effectively; with great concern for the quality of the environment and the future well-being of your fellow citizens, you have planted and carefully nurtured sturdy policies that will not be uprooted. Following upon your energetic administration of the Environmental Protection Agency, during a tense seven-month period in 1973, you heeded your country's call first to become Acting Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, then to assume the post of Deputy Attorney General. But as a time of darkness crowded in, you determined - with prudence and from motives of conscience - that it was time to withdraw for a period from public service and maintain your honor in silence. To recognize that an honorable withdrawal can be the most distinguished service of all is a mark of true wisdom. At a time when such wisdom is sorely needed to rebuild the moral stature of our country and solidify respect for the legal system upon which our country is founded, the University of Detroit is proud to be able to honor you as a lawyer and administrator of outstanding integrity and public service. Reverend President, it is my privilege to present the Honorable William D. Ruckleshaus for the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws. Commencement, University of Detroit, School of Law, May 10, 1975.