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

    Proclamation 7733 of November 10, 2003

    Veterans Day, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    The willingness of America's veterans to sacrifice for our country has
    earned them our lasting gratitude. On this, our Nation's 50th annual
    Veterans Day observance, we celebrate and honor the patriots who have
    fought to protect the democratic ideals that are the foundation of our
    country.
    When the armistice ending World War I was signed on November 11, 1918,
    more than 4.7 million Americans put down their arms and turned to the
    work of strengthening our Nation. The end of that first global conflict
    was initially commemorated as Armistice Day. In 1954, the Congress
    renamed the day as Veterans Day to recognize all those who have served
    in our Armed Forces.
    Throughout our history, loyal citizens from every corner of America have
    willingly assumed the duty of military life. And time after time, in
    conflicts across the globe, they have proven that democracy is mightier
    than tyranny. From World War I and World War II, to the conflicts in
    Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf, to the recent battles in the war
    on terror, our military has built a great tradition of courageous and
    faithful service. Our veterans have helped bring freedom to countries
    around the world. Free nations and peoples liberated by American troops
    are grateful for the long, distinguished line of American veterans who
    have come to their aid.
    Today, our veterans inspire new generations of Americans as we work to
    defeat terrorism and advance peace. In respect for and recognition of
    the contributions our service men and women have made to the cause of
    peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C.
    6103(a)) that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as a legal
    public holiday to honor veterans.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2003, as Veterans Day and urge
    all Americans to observe November 9 through November 15, 2003, as
    National Veterans Awareness Week. I encourage all Americans to recognize
    the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through appropriate ceremonies
    and prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display
    the flag of the United States and to participate in patriotic activities
    in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places
    of worship, schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this
    national observance with suitable commemorative expressions and
    programs.

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    117 STAT. 3113

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