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

Proclamation 7669 of April 30, 2003
 
Older Americans Month, 2003

By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Advances in medicine, public health, science, and technology are keeping
Americans healthier and adding years to our lives. As our population of
senior citizens continues to grow, our Nation remains dedicated to
fulfilling our promises to these valuable members of our society. This
year's observance of Older Americans Month, ``What We Do Makes A
Difference,'' recognizes the important contributions of older

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117 STAT. 3034

Americans and the network of services that support them. Older Americans
continue to work in a variety of jobs, from teachers, to engineers, to
business owners and entrepreneurs, and in so doing bring invaluable
experience and leadership skills. Additionally, their wisdom, strength,
and compassion reflect the character of our great Nation. During this
month, we honor our seniors and thank them for the lessons they teach us
and the strong values they instill in families and communities
throughout our country.
Serving as examples to others, throughout our Nation every day, older
Americans are engaging in acts of compassion. Over a half million
members of the Senior Corps are volunteering their time and talents to
help those in need. Retired doctors, nurses, police, and firefighters
are helping communities prepare for emergencies, and countless other
older Americans are bringing comfort and care to their families and
neighbors. These individuals understand the importance of service, and
their efforts are helping to build a more welcoming society. Many food
banks, clothing distribution programs, and other social service
activities of faith-based and community organizations could not operate
without the senior Americans who volunteer in these efforts.
As these individuals continue to work on our behalf, our Nation is
working to fulfill our obligations to older Americans by providing them
with good health care and other services to enhance their lives. My
Administration is coordinating with State and Area Agencies on Aging,
and faith-based and community organizations to better provide essential
services, such as meals, nutrition, counseling, and health screening, to
our seniors. Seven million older Americans and their families are
currently being served by a large network of Federal, State, tribal,
local partnerships, and thousands of volunteers. The services provided
by these groups make it easier for older Americans to remain in their
homes, communities, and the workplace, which helps preserve their
dignity and independence.
In addition, our Medicare system is our binding commitment as a caring
society. When Medicare was signed into law 38 years ago, it was designed
to bring the healing miracle of modern medicine to our senior citizens.
We must renew our commitment to giving seniors access to the
preventative medicines and new drugs that are transforming health care
in America. Medicare must be available in a variety of forms, and older
Americans must have the opportunity to choose the healthcare plan that
best fits their needs. My Administration will continue its efforts to
improve programs that support older Americans and to offer innovative
options for long-term care.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2003 as Older
Americans Month. I commend our senior citizens for their many
contributions to our society. I further commend the network of Federal,
State, local, and tribal organizations, service and healthcare
providers, caregivers, and millions of dedicated volunteers for their
daily efforts on behalf of our senior citizens. I encourage all
Americans to honor their elders, to find opportunities to address their
needs, and to work together to reinforce the bonds that unite families
and communities. I also call upon all our citizens to publicly reaffirm
our Nation's commitment to older Americans this month, and throughout
the year.

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117 STAT. 3035

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
April, 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