Through the generations, America's men and women in
uniform have defeated tyrants, liberated continents, and set a standard
of courage and idealism for the entire world. On Veterans Day, our
Nation pays tribute to those who have proudly served in our Armed
Forces.
To protect the Nation they love, our veterans stepped forward when
America needed them most. In conflicts around the world, their sacrifice
and resolve helped destroy the enemies of freedom and saved millions
from oppression. In answering history's call with honor, decency, and
resolve, our veterans have shown the power of liberty and earned the
respect and admiration of a grateful Nation.
All of America's veterans have placed our Nation's security before
their own lives, creating a debt that we can never fully repay. Our
veterans represent the best of America, and they deserve the best
America can give them.
As we recall the service of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines,
and Coast Guardsmen, we are reminded that the defense of freedom comes
with great loss and sacrifice. This Veterans Day, we give thanks to
those who have served freedom's cause; we salute the members of our
Armed Forces who are confronting our adversaries abroad; and we honor
the men and women who left America's shores but did not live to be
thanked as veterans. They will always be remembered by our country.
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, 2006, as Veterans Day and urge
all Americans to observe November 5 through November 11, 2006, as
National Veterans Awareness Week. I encourage 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 support 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 thirty-first day
of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-first.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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