April 21 is the 80th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth of Great Britain. In honor of this occasion, I quote from a radio address that the Queen made on her 21st birthday in 1947, when she was still Princess Elizabeth. The broadcast was made from Cape Town, South Africa, while she was on a Commonwealth tour.

The boadcast concluded as follows:

"There is a motto which has been borne by many of my ancestors - a noble motto, 'I serve'. Those words were an inspiration to many bygone heirs to the Throne when they made their knightly dedication as they came to manhood. I cannot do quite as they did.

"But through the inventions of science I can do what was not possible for any of them. I can make my solemn act of dedication with a whole Empire listening. I should like to make that dedication now. It is very simple.

"I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.

"But I shall not have strength to carry out this resolution alone unless you join in it with me, as I now invite you to do: I know that your support will be unfailingly given. God help me to make good my vow, and God bless all of you who are willing to share in it."

In the nearly sixty years since that broadcast, the high and honored lady who spoke those words has more than made good her vow. She has led a life characterized by unfailing devotion to duty and exemplary service to her people. Well done, Ma'am. May you have a joyous birthday.