He attempts to relating the tragedies of the war in Europe to the United States. He describes the conditions being suffered by civilians in France and Belgium due to the British- German conflict in the northeast coast of France. He Lists the efforts of the American Red Cross, and urges Americans to donate as much as they are able. He warns against U.S. overconfidence in isolationism: precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of America. Roosevelt relates of the condition of the Army and Navy and explains the spending, and need for it he concludes by extending to the American people the duty of patriotic Americans to support the national defense.

Religious Overtones:

Roosevelt makes numerous religious allusions, in addition to invoking his invocation of the name of God. This is a theme that pervades not only this address specifically, but many of the addresses on the whole. He begins with a reference to the Sabbath noting that it is right on such a day to recognize 'women and children and old men who need help-immediate help in their present distress." He concludes, "I am certain that out of the hearts of every man, woman, and child in this land, in every waking minute, a supplication goes up to almighty God; that all of us be that suffering and starving, that death and destruction may end-and threat peace may return to the world. In common affection for all mankind, your prayers join with mine-that God will heal the wounds and the hearts of humanity." Roosevelt suggests a commonality in the nation's appeal to a greater power, and unifies them through his own spiritual invocations.

Roosevelt says, "Let me tell you just a few of the many things accomplished during the past few years." He then enumerates the changes that have been made. It appears that Roosevelt is giving the American people a lesson in defense and defense spending, explaining to them the importance of the expansion of the navy, so that they will be in accordance with his decisions on spending towards the defense effort.