WASHINGTON, Oct. 23, 1983 (UPI) - President Reagan delivered the following statement at the White House Sunday on the attacks in Beirut that killed more than 70 U.S. Marines: ''I'm not going to take any questions this morning because we are going right into meetings on the events that have taken place on this tragic weekend. But I would like to make this statement.
''I know there are no words that can express our sorrow and grief for the loss of those spendid young men and the injuries to so many others. I know there are no words also that can ease the burden of grief for the families of those young men.
''Likewise there are no words to properly express our outrage and I think the outrage of all Americans at the despicable act, following as it does on the one perpetrated several months ago in the spring that took the lives of scores of people at our embassy in the same city of Beirut.
''But I think we all should recognize that these deeds make so evident the bestial nature of those who would assume power if they could have their way and drive us out of that area. But we must be more determined than ever that they cannot take over that vital and strategic area or for that matter any other part of the earth.''
