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

 
PROCLAMATION 8438--OCT. 9, 2009

Proclamation 8438 of October 9, 2009
General Pulaski Memorial Day, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Each year on this day, Americans pause to remember a patriot and
champion of liberty who fought valiantly for the freedom of our Nation.
During our struggle for independence, General Casimir Pulaski displayed
heroic leadership and ultimately sacrificed his life in service to our
country. His commitment to liberty remains an inspiration to us today,
230 years later, and it serves as a reflection of the many contributions
Polish Americans have made to our national identity.
Born in Poland in 1745, Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski witnessed the
occupation of Poland by foreign troops during his youth. He joined the
struggle for Polish independence in 1768, fighting alongside his father
with unwavering determination. Despite the tremendous courage of Pulaski
and his compatriots, the foreign forces prevailed and Poland was divided
among three of its neighbors. The young Casimir Pulaski was exiled, and,
while in Paris, met America's envoy to France, Benjamin Franklin, and
learned of our nascent quest for independence.
Arriving in America during the summer of 1777, General Pulaski quickly
earned a commission and led his troops with admirable skill in a number
of important campaigns. He would eventually become known as the ``Father
of the American Cavalry.'' In 1779, Pulaski was mortally wounded during
the siege of Savannah while trying to rally his troops under heavy enemy
fire. Before laying down his life for the United States, this Polish and
American hero had earned a reputation for his idealism and his
courageous spirit.
Pulaski's ideals live on today in the many Polish-American communities
across the country. These neighborhoods continue to celebrate Polish
culture, while adding immeasurably to our national identity. Their
contributions have expanded our collective knowledge, pushing the
boundaries of science, business, and the arts. With each passing year,
the cooperation between the United States and Poland grows, supported by
the dedication and commitment of Polish Americans to our shared history.
Today, as we remember General Pulaski, we celebrate our strong
friendship with Poland, and honor those Americans of Polish heritage.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Sunday, October 11,
2009, as General Pulaski Memorial Day. I encourage all Americans to
commemorate this occasion with appropriate programs and activities
paying tribute to Casimir Pulaski and honoring all those who defend the
freedom of our great Nation.

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123 STAT. 3722

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fourth.
BARACK OBAMA