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

Proclamation 7852 of December 6, 2004


 
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, 2004


By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
On a quiet Sunday morning, December 7, 1941, more than 2,400 Americans
were killed in the attack on Pearl Harbor. On that day, life changed in
America, and the course of history was altered forever.
Our citizens reacted to the attack with firm determination to defeat
tyranny and secure our Nation. This enterprise required the commitment
and effort of our entire country. At the height of the conflict, the
United States had ships on every ocean and troops on five continents. In
all, more than 16 million Americans wore the uniform of our Nation. They
came from all walks of life. They served honorably and fought fiercely.
At home, millions more contributed to the war effort, laboring for
victory in our factories, on farms, and across America.
Today, we honor those who fought and died at Pearl Harbor, and we pay
special tribute to the veterans of World War II. These heroes hold a
cherished place in our history. Through their courage, sacrifice, and
selfless dedication, they saved our country and preserved freedom. As we
fight the war on terror, their patriotism continues to inspire a new
generation of Americans who have been called to defend the blessings of
liberty. Like those who have gone before them throughout our history,
our troops fighting the war on terror are defending America from danger
and liberating the oppressed.
The Congress, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated December
7 of each year as ``National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.'';
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim December 7, 2004, as National Pearl Harbor
Remembrance Day. I encourage all Americans to observe this solemn
occasion with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I urge all Federal
agencies, interested organizations, groups, and individuals to fly the
flag of the United States at half-staff this December 7 in honor of
those who died as a result of their service at Pearl Harbor.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of
December, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
ninth.
GEORGE W. BUSH