[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 118, 108th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

Proclamation 7789 of May 21, 2004


 
National Maritime Day, 2004


By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

National Maritime Day provides an opportunity to recognize the men and
women of the United States Merchant Marine and their contributions to
our national security and economic strength.
Since they first offered their ships and services to assist the
Continental Navy in our struggle for independence, to their
distinguished service in World War II, merchant mariners have
courageously sacrificed to protect our country and defend our freedoms.
In 1936, America recognized the contributions of these patriots and
established the U.S. Merchant Marine ``as a naval or military auxiliary
in time of war or national emergency.''; Today, merchant mariners are
delivering essential supplies and equipment to our troops in Iraq and
bravely serving the cause of liberty. They continue to play an important
role in our Nation's efforts to advance democracy, peace, and freedom
around the world, and we are grateful for their dedication.
Merchant mariners also contribute significantly to the U.S. maritime
transportation system. More than 95 percent of non-North American trade
enters our country through our seaports. These ports handle more than
$740 billion and 2 billion tons of domestic and international freight
each year. Those in the maritime industry, including merchant

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mariners, enhance waterborne commerce and help promote America's
economic growth.
Today, we honor the courage, determination, and service of our Nation's
merchant mariners and remember the many who have given their lives in
defense of our country. Their work reflects the patriotism and devotion
to duty that make America great.
In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the
Congress, by joint resolution approved on May 20, 1933, as amended, has
designated May 22 of each year as ``National Maritime Day,''; and has
authorized and requested that the President issue an annual proclamation
calling for its appropriate observance.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2004, as National Maritime Day. I
call upon the people of the United States to celebrate this observance
and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their
communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American
flag dress ship on that day.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH

PROCLAMATION 7790--MAY 21, 2004