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

 
PROCLAMATION 8089--DEC. 1, 2006
Proclamation 8089 of December 1, 2006
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, 2006
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Sixty-five years ago, more than 2,400 Americans lost their lives in a
surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance
Day, we think of those who died on December 7, 1941, and honor all those
who sacrificed for our liberty during World War II.
On that peaceful Sunday morning, our country suffered a vicious,
unprovoked attack that changed the course of history. Though our Pacific
Fleet was nearly destroyed, our citizens were inspired by the great acts
of heroism from those who survived and from those who did not. In the
days that followed, our grief turned to resolution, and America embarked
on a mission to defeat two of the most ruthless regimes the world has
ever known. We pledge to always remember the character and sacrifice of
the brave individuals at Pearl Harbor. Their selfless service helped
deliver a great victory for the cause of freedom and, ultimately,
transformed adversaries into the closest of friends.
After the devastating attacks on Pearl Harbor, President Franklin D.
Roosevelt declared, ``We are going to win the war and we are going to
win the peace that follows.'' In the 21st century, freedom is again
under attack, and young Americans have stepped forward to serve in a
global war on terror that will secure our liberty and determine the
destiny of millions around the world. Like generations before, we will
answer history's call with confidence, confront threats to our way of
life, and build a more peaceful world for our children and
grandchildren.
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, 2006, 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 first day of
December, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
GEORGE W. BUSH