[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 120, 109th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 7982--FEB. 24, 2006
Proclamation 7982 of February 24, 2006
American Red Cross Month
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Throughout our Nation's history, Americans have worked together to care
for those in need. The work of the American Red Cross exemplifies this
tradition and reflects the good heart of our country. This year during
American Red Cross Month, we recognize this organization for

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its 125 years of faithful service to our Nation and for its continued
mission to help those in need at home and abroad.
Since Clara Barton founded the organization in 1881, the American Red
Cross has offered aid and disaster relief to millions of individuals.
From conducting blood drives and arranging family communications and
other forms of support for our troops to providing relief for victims of
natural disasters, the American Red Cross carries out emergency response
around the globe. Local chapters help American communities respond to
regional catastrophes and promote emergency preparedness with American
Red Cross First Aid and CPR courses. Members of these chapters serve
their communities by visiting homebound seniors, mentoring youth,
distributing hot lunches, volunteering at homeless shelters, and
offering transitional housing. They also educate young people on
violence and substance abuse prevention and help in hospitals and
nursing homes.
In 2005, a devastating hurricane season left millions displaced and
homeless. The American Red Cross network of more than 800 chapters and
thousands of volunteers provided food, shelter, counseling, and care to
more than a million Gulf Coast families. Working in coordination with
the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the American Red
Cross has also assisted with relief efforts for victims of hurricanes
and landslides in Latin America and the recent earthquake in South Asia.
By donating their time and energy to selflessly serve others, American
Red Cross volunteers demonstrate the compassion and generosity for which
Americans are known. Their service paves the way to a brighter future
for our citizens and people around the world.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America and Honorary Chairman of the American Red Cross, by virtue of
the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim March 2006 as American Red Cross Month. I
commend the good work of the American Red Cross, and I encourage all
Americans to continue to help the recovery efforts in the Gulf Coast
region and around the world through volunteering their time, energy, and
talents for others.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day
of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH