    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
    [March 22, 1991]
    [Pages 297-298]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Address on the National Days of Thanksgiving
    March 22, 1991

        Two months ago, with thousands of U.S. troops standing guard against
    aggression halfway around the world, I called on the Nation to pray and
    to ask for God's blessing and guidance as we approached a pivotal moment
    in our history. And Americans filled churches, synagogues, and houses of
    worship in record numbers. These prayers, and the support of countless
    Americans of all faiths, creeds, and walks of life, inspired the hearts
    and souls of the men and women in the service of our country.
        Now the liberation of Kuwait is complete. Offensive operations in
    the Gulf region have ceased, and American troops are coming home. As
    they return, and with the hope that a safer, more peaceful world may
    finally be at hand, it is right that Americans should thank God for the
    many blessings and
    guidance.

    [[Page 298]]

        And so, I have proclaimed April 5 to 7, 1991, as National Days of
    Thanksgiving. Once again, I urge Americans to unite in prayer and turn
    to our greatest power.
        We give thanks for the remarkable unity of our people throughout the
    conflict and especially for the strong support shown for our troops in
    the field. I am confident that our nation will emerge stronger and more
    united to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
        Though we thank God that our prisoners are home and our casualties
    were fewer than widely predicted, we must not forget all the innocents
    who have suffered as a result of the war. We hope for the immediate
    return of divided families and for the swift recovery from illness and
    injury.
        Finally, let us look to the future and pray for a world marked by
    peaceful relations between people.
        As we mark these National Days of Thanksgiving, may God bless the
    United States of America.

                        Note: This address was recorded March 11 at 3:01
                            p.m. in the Private Dining Room at the White
                            House and was released by the Office of the
                            Press Secretary on March 22.