[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8393--JUNE 18, 2009

Proclamation 8393 of June 18, 2009
Father's Day, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

The journey of fatherhood provides unique and lasting joys. Cradling a
baby in his arms, a father experiences the miracle of life and an
unbreakable bond. Fathers imagine a world of possibilities awaiting
their children and contemplate the privilege of helping them reach that
expanse of opportunity. As kids grow and mature, they look to their dad
for a special kind of love and support. Providing these necessities can
bring great happiness.
Fatherhood also brings great responsibilities. Fathers have an
obligation to help rear the children they bring into the world. Children
deserve this care, and families need each father's active participation.
Fathers must help teach right from wrong and instill in their kids the
values that sustain them for a lifetime. As they encounter new and
challenging experiences, children need guidance and counsel. Fathers
need to talk with their kids to help them through difficult times.
Parents must also help their children make the right choices by serving
as strong role models. Honest and hard-working fathers are an
irreplaceable influence upon their children.
Communities must do more to counsel fathers. Family and friends, and
faith-based and community organizations, can speak directly with men
about the sacrifices and rewards of having a child. These groups can

[[Page 3663]]
123 STAT. 3663

support men as they take on the great challenges of child-rearing.
Through honest and open dialogue, more men can choose to become model
parents and know the wonders of fatherhood.
On Father's Day, we pay tribute to the loving and caring fathers who are
strengthening their families and country. We also honor those surrogate
fathers who raise, mentor, or care for someone else's child. Thousands
of young children benefit from the influence of great men, and we salute
their willingness to give and continue giving. We also express special
gratitude to fathers who serve in the United States Armed Forces for the
sacrifices they and their families make every day. All of these
individuals are making great contributions, and children across the
country are better off for their care.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, in accordance with a joint resolution of the Congress approved
April 24, 1972, as amended (36 U.S.C. 109), do hereby proclaim June 21,
2009, as Father's Day. I direct the appropriate officials of the
Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government
buildings on this day. I urge all Americans to express their love,
respect, and admiration to their fathers, and I call upon all citizens
to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and
activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of
June, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.
BARACK OBAMA