    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 7648 of February 28, 2003

    American Red Cross Month, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Throughout our history, Americans have been committed to helping the
    suffering, the disadvantaged, and those in need of help. The American
    Red Cross represents the compassion of our Nation in action. During
    American Red Cross Month, we honor this remarkable organization and
    recognize its proud heritage of service.
    For more than 121 years, the Red Cross has upheld its mission to provide
    relief to victims of disasters and to help people prevent, prepare for,
    and respond to emergencies. Last year, the Red Cross helped victims of
    more than 70,000 disasters, ranging from dwelling fires to widespread
    catastrophes such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and wildfires.
    Around the world, the Red Cross contributed to international efforts
    that aided other countries devastated by natural disasters, assisted
    people in getting access to safe drinking water, and battled
    malnutrition and life-threatening diseases. More than half a million
    U.S. military families received direct assistance from the Red Cross,
    helping them stay connected with their loved ones, despite difficult
    circumstances.
    The American Red Cross also strengthens our communities by encouraging
    citizens to be involved and to help their neighbors in need. Last year,
    more than 1.2 million everyday heroes volunteered at their local Red
    Cross chapters, and almost 12 million more took the time to learn
    lifesaving skills such as first aid, CPR, and defibrillator use. And
    more than 4 million citizens answered the call for blood donors, giving
    7.2 million blood donations through the American Red Cross.
    During these times of great consequence, the mission of the Red Cross is
    more critical than ever. As our Nation confronts new challenges, the
    American Red Cross and its partners are working with the Federal
    Government and the emergency planning community to help keep America
    safe. Through its ``Together We Prepare'' campaign, the Red Cross is a
    vital partner with the Department of Homeland Security in empowering
    individuals and families to protect themselves and be prepared for the
    unexpected.
    Countless people across our country turn to the American Red Cross every
    day for blood and blood products, disaster assistance, and vital
    community services. We are grateful for this essential and inspiring
    organization, and we celebrate its legacy of help, hope, and healing for
    those in need.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America and Honorary Chairman of the American Red Cross, by virtue of
    the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
    States, do hereby proclaim March 2003 as American Red Cross Month. As we
    celebrate this month, I call upon all citizens to become partners in
    preparedness with their local Red Cross chapters and to become active
    participants in advancing the noble mission of the American Red Cross.

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    117 STAT. 3008

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day
    of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    seventh.
    GEORGE W. BUSH