For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 19, 2004
Father's Day, 2004
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
A special bond exists between a father and his children. On
Father's Day, we recognize the important role fathers play in the
American family, and we honor them for their strength, love, and
commitment.
After listening to a church service on Mother's Day 1909, Sonora
Dodd proposed a day to honor fathers. She was inspired by the courage
and sacrifice of her own father, a Civil War veteran, who reared six
children by himself after his wife's death. As others began to
celebrate it, the idea for Father's Day spread across America. In
1966, President Lyndon Johnson officially proclaimed Father's Day as a
national observance.
Fathers have a duty to love their children with all their hearts
and prepare them to be independent, compassionate, and responsible
citizens. A father's words and actions are critical in shaping the
character of his children. A fathers love helps teach them right from
wrong, explains to them the consequences of bad decisions, and
strengthens them with encouragement.
As we honor our fathers on this day, we express our heartfelt
appreciation for their leadership, support, and protection for their
children and families. We particularly recognize the many fathers who
are far from home, serving our Nation and defending the cause of
freedom around the world. They have answered a great call and live by
a code of honor and duty that serves as an example for their sons and
daughters and for all Americans.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, in accordance with a joint resolution of the Congress
approved April 24, 1972, as amended (36 U.S.C. 109), do hereby proclaim
June 20, 2004, as Father's Day. I encourage all Americans to express
love, admiration, and thanks to their fathers for their contributions
to our lives and to society. I direct the appropriate officials of the
Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government
buildings on this day. I also call upon State and local governments
and citizens to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies,
and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth 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
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