For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
May 2, 2002
Loyalty Day, 2002
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Ours is a Nation of people who demonstrate their patriotic loyalty
through service to our country. Whether born on American soil or
abroad, Americans appreciate patriotism and loyalty to our country.
President Woodrow Wilson said, "Loyalty means nothing unless it has at
its heart the absolute principle of self-sacrifice." Americans
affirmed this sense of loyalty for their homeland during and following
the attacks of September 11, 2001. Brave rescuers died while saving
others. Passengers on a hijacked airplane gave their lives to prevent
the deaths of fellow Americans. Americans pledged to fight terrorism,
both here and across the globe.
Since that tragic day, citizens across our country overwhelmingly
gave their time and resources to help those in need. These countless
expressions of patriotism reflect an inspiring devotion to our fellow
citizens and our Nation.
For our military personnel, loyalty and dedication is a way of
life. The men and women of our Armed Forces embody loyalty as they
work to protect our ideals. Throughout our history, America's military
has heroically defended our country and its founding principles of
freedom and democracy. Today, our military is again responding to the
call of duty with courage and pride. These brave individuals who risk
their lives fighting terror honor those who have made the ultimate
sacrifice on behalf of the American people.
Our Constitution speaks of forming "a more perfect Union," and
Americans have always responded to this call with commitment and
character. Brave citizens have fought to abolish slavery, to extend
voting rights to all our citizens, and to uphold civil rights. The
struggle to improve our Nation also takes place on an individual level,
one person at a time. Men and women of all ages and from all over the
country work every day to help others in need. Through families,
community groups, and places of worship, Americans give of themselves
to help others realize a brighter future.
Our loyalty to American democracy and freedom is born of pride,
appreciation, and understanding of our country. We are loyal to
America, our fellow citizens, and these ideals. Loyalty Day provides
an opportunity to recognize those who demonstrate their commitment to
our country through service and sacrifice. These individuals serve as
a model for all Americans.
The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, as amended, has designated May
1 of each year as "Loyalty Day." On this special occasion, I encourage
all Americans to join me in reaffirming our allegiance to our blessed
Nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2002, as
Loyalty Day. I call upon all Americans to take part in celebrating
this national observance.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day
of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-sixth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
# # #
|