For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 4, 2004
Great Outdoors Month, 2004
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
More than 200 years ago, Captains Meriwether Lewis and William
Clark embarked upon an expedition to explore uncharted lands and find
passage across the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. During the
Captains' journey, their Corps of Discovery encountered remarkable
landscapes, observed wildlife, and traded with American Indians. Two
years into his experience, Captain Lewis was inspired by the beauty of
a waterfall along the Missouri River that he called in his journal,
"the grandest sight I ever beheld." Today, the splendor of the great
outdoors continues to inspire our citizens, and a love of outdoor
recreation remains a fundamental part of the American character. By
observing Great Outdoors Month, we celebrate our commitment to
appreciating and protecting our natural wealth.
Outdoor recreation is an ideal way to exercise and enjoy memorable
experiences with family and friends, and all across our country are
scenic places that sports and nature enthusiasts can explore and help
keep beautiful. During Great Outdoors Month and throughout the year, I
encourage Americans to go camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, bird
watching, boating, or to participate in other outdoor activities that
are part of a healthy lifestyle.
The true strength of our Nation lies in the hearts and souls of our
citizens, and I urge all Americans not only to visit our parks and
recreation areas, but also to volunteer their time and talents to help
maintain the beauty of our environment. Good stewardship of the
environment is not just a personal responsibility, it is a public
value; and citizens who lend a hand to local parks and public lands are
vital to the preservation of our Nation's many special places.
Americans can take pride in the remarkable progress we continue to make
in conserving our environment and natural resources.
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 June 2004 as Great
Outdoors Month. I call upon the people of the United States to observe
this month with appropriate ceremonies and activities and to
participate in safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of
June, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
# # #
|