Reagan Addresses America After Russians Shoot Down Airliner

More than 30 years ago, on September 5th, 1983, President Ronald Reagan addressed the American people after a Soviet fighter jet shot down a Korean airliner for 'invasion of airspace'.

'My fellow Americans, I'm coming before you tonight about a Korean airline massacre, the attack by the Soviet Union against 269 innocent men, women and children aboard an unarmed Korean passenger plane. This crime against humanity must never be forgotten.'

Now, contrast Reagan's strong response to comments made today by President Obama regarding the shooting down of a Malaysian airliner, reportedly by the Russians, killing 295.

'It's wonderful to be back in Delaware. Before I begin, obviously the world is watching reports of a downed passenger jet near the Russian - Ukraine border. It looks like it may be a terrible tragedy. Right now we're working to determine whether there were American citizens on board. This is our first priority.'

President Obama then returned to his prepared text.