[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