For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
November 10, 2003
Veterans Day, 2003
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
In Focus: Veterans
The willingness of America's veterans to sacrifice for our country
has earned them our lasting gratitude. On this, our Nation's 50th
annual Veterans Day observance, we celebrate and honor the patriots who
have fought to protect the democratic ideals that are the foundation of
our country.
When the armistice ending World War I was signed on November 11,
1918, more than 4.7 million Americans put down their arms and turned to
the work of strengthening our Nation. The end of that first global
conflict was initially commemorated as Armistice Day. In 1954, the
Congress renamed the day as Veterans Day to recognize all those who
have served in our Armed Forces.
Throughout our history, loyal citizens from every corner of America
have willingly assumed the duty of military life. And time after time,
in conflicts across the globe, they have proven that democracy is
mightier than tyranny. From World War I and World War II, to the
conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf, to the recent
battles in the war on terror, our military has built a great tradition
of courageous and faithful service. Our veterans have helped bring
freedom to countries around the world. Free nations and peoples
liberated by American troops are grateful for the long, distinguished
line of American veterans who have come to their aid.
Today, our veterans inspire new generations of Americans as we work
to defeat terrorism and advance peace. In respect for and 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, 2003, as Veterans Day and
urge all Americans to observe November 9 through November 15, 2003, as
National Veterans Awareness Week. I encourage all Americans to
recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through appropriate
ceremonies and prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local
officials to display the flag of the United States and to 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 suitable
commemorative expressions and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of
November, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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