Veterans Day, 2005
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America
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
# # #