In speech to graduating cadets, Obama outlining his approach to safeguarding country he leads

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Graduating cadets hear from Obama on protecting US

WEST POINT, N.Y. — President Barack Obama has arrived at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point to address the graduating class of 2010.

The commander in chief is expected to talk about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as his vision for keeping the nation safe. He also will commend the roughly 1,000 graduates for service to country.

Nearly the entire graduating class will become Army second lieutenants, with most expecting to serve eventually in Iraq or Afghanistan.

It’s Obama’s second visit to West Point. He visited last December to announce his decision to send an additional 30,000 U.S. troops to Afghanistan.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

NEWBURGH, N.Y. (AP) — President Barack Obama says national defense isn’t the sole responsibility of the U.S. military and that it’s time for the rest of the country to pitch in.

The commander in chief says that while those in uniform are the cornerstone of America’s national defense, “the rest of us must do our part.”

Obama is giving the commencement address Saturday at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y. The White House released excerpts of his speech to graduates before the ceremony.

The president says he wants to strengthen old international alliances and build new ones, and promote human rights around the world.