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

    Proclamation 7635 of December 16, 2002

    Wright Brothers Day, 2002

    By the President of the United States of America

    Throughout our Nation's history, Americans have contributed to important
    technological breakthroughs that have improved the quality of life for
    countless individuals. On December 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, North
    Carolina, Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved the first successfully
    sustained and controlled flight with a heavier-than-air, engine-powered
    aircraft. In the 99 years since that revolutionary event, man

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    kind has flown across oceans, broken the sound barrier, launched
    satellites, and landed on the moon. On Wright Brothers Day, we celebrate
    the vision and determination of these innovators whose remarkable
    achievements changed the world forever.
    The first successful powered flight on the morning of December 17, 1903,
    lasted only 12 seconds and spanned approximately 120 feet; but the
    Wright brothers' ideas and design led to countless advances in aviation.
    Between 1899 and 1905, they constructed a total of seven aircraft, and
    through this extensive research and experimentation, Orville and Wilbur
    Wright established the foundation of modern aeronautics.
    The airplane has played a critical role in improving our national
    defense, our economy, and our Nation. It has enabled trade to thrive,
    strengthened our economic security, and fostered friendship and goodwill
    throughout the world. Today, Americans rely on airplanes to deliver
    emergency treatment to the sick or injured, bring families together, and
    link us to every corner of the globe.
    The United States remains committed to supporting progress in technology
    that secures air travel, enhances our national defense, and ensures the
    success and prosperity of our country. Inspired by the extraordinary
    accomplishments of the Wright brothers, our Nation will continue to
    explore new ideas, improve technology, and work for a brighter future
    for all.
    The Congress, by a joint resolution approved December 17, 1963 (77 Stat.
    402; 36 U.S.C. 143) as amended, has designated December 17 of each year
    as ``Wright Brothers Day'' and has authorized and requested the
    President to issue annually a proclamation inviting the people of the
    United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies and
    activities.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America, do hereby proclaim December 17, 2002, as Wright Brothers Day.
    Through their courage and willingness to take risks, the Wright brothers
    reflect the true American character.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of
    December, 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.
    GEORGE W. BUSH