And yet there are puzzlements.
"We came in peace for all mankind."
Wouldn't you think the UN flag would be more appropriate if that sentiment was sincere?
And why say "We came in peace"? What does that add, except the implication that we are a warlike country which is giving up something. Would you expect a Lichtenstein or Samoan expedition to say "we came in peace"?
Of course not. It's a real feel-good statement with uncomfortable implications.