For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
February 28, 2003
American Red Cross Month, 2003
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Throughout our history, Americans have been committed to helping
the suffering, the disadvantaged, and those in need of help. The
American Red Cross represents the compassion of our Nation in action.
During American Red Cross Month, we honor this remarkable organization
and recognize its proud heritage of service.
For more than 121 years, the Red Cross has upheld its mission to
provide relief to victims of disasters and to help people prevent,
prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Last year, the Red Cross
helped victims of more than 70,000 disasters, ranging from dwelling
fires to widespread catastrophes such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes,
and wildfires. Around the world, the Red Cross contributed to
international efforts that aided other countries devastated by natural
disasters, assisted people in getting access to safe drinking water,
and battled malnutrition and life-threatening diseases. More than half
a million U.S. military families received direct assistance from the
Red Cross, helping them stay connected with their loved ones, despite
difficult circumstances.
The American Red Cross also strengthens our communities by
encouraging citizens to be involved and to help their neighbors in
need. Last year, more than 1.2 million everyday heroes volunteered at
their local Red Cross chapters, and almost 12 million more took the
time to learn lifesaving skills such as first aid, CPR, and
defibrillator use. And more than 4 million citizens answered the call
for blood donors, giving 7.2 million blood donations through the
American Red Cross.
During these times of great consequence, the mission of the Red
Cross is more critical than ever. As our Nation confronts new
challenges, the American Red Cross and its partners are working with
the Federal Government and the emergency planning community to help
keep America safe. Through its "Together We Prepare" campaign, the Red
Cross is a vital partner with the Department of Homeland Security in
empowering individuals and families to protect themselves and be
prepared for the unexpected.
Countless people across our country turn to the American Red Cross
every day for blood and blood products, disaster assistance, and vital
community services. We are grateful for this essential and inspiring
organization, and we celebrate its legacy of help, hope, and healing
for those in need.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America and Honorary Chairman of the American Red Cross, by virtue
of the authority vested in me
by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby
proclaim March 2003 as American Red Cross Month. As we celebrate this
month, I call upon all citizens to become partners in prepared-ness
with their local Red Cross chapters and to become active participants
in advancing the noble mission of the American Red Cross.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth
day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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