For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
April 25, 2001
Loyalty Day, 2001
By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation
Two hundred and twenty-five years ago, America's founders faced a
decisive crossroads. Thomas Jefferson later remembered "the
bold and doubtful election we were to make for our country, between
submission or the sword." They chose the sword, and a Nation was born.
Today, we celebrate our loyalty to this country and to the principles
for which America stands. Americans demonstrate their
dedication by protecting our Nation and its people, promoting our
commonly held ideals, and passing these values on to future
generations.
Many Americans display their loyalty through careers in
public service. Members of our Armed Forces ensure that our Nation
remains strong and secure, as well as defend democracy around the
world. Domestically, law enforcement officers and the
professionals working in our judicial system maintain the peace and
uphold the rule of law on which our society depends. Countless other
Americans also work to protect us from dangers that threaten our safety
and resources.
Americans have not let the dream of "a more perfect
Union" fade with the passing of time. Rather, each new
generation, along with millions of immigrants, has promoted ideals that
lead to the archetype that the founders envisioned. Heroes
have risen to fight for freedom, abolition of slavery, universal
suffrage, civil rights, and other principles that form the foundation
of our Nation. Today, citizens across the country continue
this tradition by giving their time and effort to causes greater than
themselves. Whether through charitable, civic, or church
activities, Americans demonstrate their loyalty by working to improve
our country and the lives of its people.
Perhaps the most basic and
important means by which we display loyalty to our country is by
passing on to our children the hope and idealism that is an important
part of the American spirit. Parents have the important task
in ensuring that our Nation's future leaders are prepared to assume the
responsibilities they will face. Teachers play essential
roles in molding our young people, and they deserve our gratitude and
respect for their dedication. Ministers and other mentors
also give of themselves by introducing children to the vast
opportunities that our Nation holds. By spending time with a
child, Americans invest in the future of our country.
Loyalty Day
recognizes the solemn bond between America and its citizens. It
provides an opportunity to recognize those who demonstrate their
loyalty every day and challenges all of us to find more ways to
contribute to the greater good of our country.
The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, has designated May 1 of each year,
as "Loyalty Day," and I encourage all Americans to join me this day 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 of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2001, as Loyalty
Day. I call upon all the people of the United States in
support of this national observance.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have
hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of April, in the year of our
Lord two thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of
America the two hundred and twenty-fifth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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