Americans
owe a great debt of gratitude to those who have sacrificed for our liberty and
for the security of our Nation. We express deep appreciation to our veterans --
the men and women who stepped forward when America needed them, triumphed over
brutal enemies, liberated continents, and answered the prayers of millions around
the globe. From the beaches
of Normandy and the snows of Korea to the mountains of Afghanistan and the deserts
of Iraq, our courageous veterans have sacrificed so that Americans and others
could live in freedom. As we mark the 60th anniversary of the end of World War
II this year, we remember the millions of veterans who crossed oceans and defeated
two of the most ruthless military forces the world has ever known. The freedom
that the children and grandchildren of these veterans now enjoy is a monument
to their fallen comrades and the generations of patriots who have served our country.
Through their commitment
to freedom, America 's veterans have lifted millions of lives and made our country
and the world more secure. They have demonstrated to us that freedom is the mightiest
force on Earth. We resolve that their sacrifices will always be remembered by
a grateful Nation. With
respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service men and women
have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has
provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as
a legal public holiday to honor veterans. NOW,
THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby
proclaim November 11, 2005, as Veterans Day and urge all Americans to observe
November 6 through November 12, 2005, as National Veterans Awareness Week. I urge
all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies
and prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag
of the United States and to encourage and participate in patriotic activities
in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship,
schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this national observance
with commemorative expressions and programs. IN
WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of November, in the
year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States
of America the two hundred and thirtieth. GEORGE
W. BUSH |