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A PROCLAMATION BY THE PRESIDENT: PATRIOT DAY, 2002
On this first observance of Patriot Day, we remember and honor those who
perished in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. We will not forget the
events of that terrible morning nor will we forget how Americans responded in
New York City, at the Pentagon, and in the skies over Pennsylvania -- with
heroism and selflessness; with compassion and courage; and with prayer and hope.
We will always remember our collective obligation to ensure that justice is
done, that freedom prevails, and that the principles upon which our Nation was
founded endure.
Inspired by the heroic sacrifices of our firefighters, rescue and law
enforcement personnel, military service members, and other citizens, our Nation
found unity, focus, and strength. We found healing in the national outpouring of
compassion for those lost, as tens of millions of Americans participated in
moments of silence, candlelight vigils, and religious services. From the
tragedy of September 11 emerged a stronger Nation, renewed by a spirit of
national pride and a true love of country.
We are a people dedicated to the triumph of freedom and democracy over evil
and tyranny. The heroic stories of the first responders who gave their all to
save others strengthened our resolve. And our Armed Forces have pursued the war
against terrorism in Afghanistan and else-where with valor and skill. Together
with our coalition partners, they have achieved success.
Americans also have fought back against terror by choosing to overcome evil
with good. By loving their neighbors as they would like to be loved, countless
citizens have answered the call to help others. They have contributed to relief
efforts, improved homeland security in their communities, and volunteered their
time to aid those in need. This spirit of service continues to grow as thousands have joined the newly established USA Freedom Corps, committing themselves to changing America one heart at a time through the momentum of millions of acts of decency and kindness.
Those whom we lost last September 11 will forever hold a cherished place in
our hearts and in the history of our Nation. As we mark the first anniversary
of that tragic day, we remember their sacrifice; and we commit ourselves to
honoring their memory by pursuing peace and justice in the world and security at
home. By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the
Congress has authorized and requested the President to designate September 11 of
each year as "Patriot Day."
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2002, as Patriot Day. I call upon the
people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and
activities, including remembrance services and candlelight vigils. I also
call upon the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico, as well as appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct
that the flag be flown at half-staff on Patriot Day. Further, I encourage all
Americans to display the flag at half-staff from their homes on that day and to
observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. eastern daylight time, or
another appropriate commemorative time, to honor the innocent victims who lost
their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh.
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