About 600 people turned out last night for the event at the Library of Congress, including Reagan alumni, veterans of Bush 41, senators, ambassadors, former Congress members, judges and press luminaries like CNN’s Sam Feist. Rick Fowler, manager of the Beach Boys, who have a long association with President Ronald Reagan, also attended. Defense Secretary Robert Gates gave a tough, pro-Reagan speech that emphasized the message of peace through strength. It was one of the biggest gatherings ever of Reagan administration alumni, and a prelude to the Reagan Centennial activities that will begin soon in advance of RR’s 100th birthday, on February 6, 2011. During the reception, guests were able to view a display Melissa Gillers and her team brought from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, Calif. Items on display include the original speech cards President Reagan used to deliver his "tear down this wall" speech, and the suit and cuff links he wore during the speech. On loan from Fred Ryan: an original piece of the Wall, on which President Reagan wrote: “Tear down this wall.” Guests also saw the original INF Treaty, on loan from the State Dept, and the pen Secretary Gorbachev used to sign it. James Hadley Billington, the Librarian of Congress, welcomed the audience. Then Fred Ryan introduced Secretary Gates.