    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8478--FEB. 24, 2010

    Proclamation 8478 of February 24, 2010
    American Red Cross Month, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    From rebuilding former adversaries after World War II, to combating
    HIV/AIDS in Africa, to saving lives after the tragic earthquake in
    Haiti, the American people have an unmatched tradition of responding to
    challenges at home and abroad with compassion and generosity. This
    tradition reflects our Nation's noblest ideals and has led people around
    the world to see the United States as a beacon of hope. During American
    Red Cross Month, we honor the organizations across our country that
    contribute to our Nation's ongoing efforts to relieve human suffering.
    Founded by Clara Barton in 1881, the American Red Cross has provided
    assistance and comfort to communities stricken by disasters large and
    small. Amidst the final months of World War I in 1918, President Woodrow
    Wilson first proclaimed ``Red Cross Week'' as a time for our citizens
    ``to give generously to the continuation of the important work of
    relieving distress.'' The American Red Cross continues to help ensure
    our communities are more ready and resilient in the face of future

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    disasters. I urge all Americans to embrace our shared duty to better
    prepare ourselves, our families, and our neighbors against a wide range
    of emergencies; and to visit www.Ready.gov and www.CitizenCorps.gov.
    Despite facing economic hardship at home, ordinary Americans are still
    contributing to humanitarian efforts worldwide. This year's catastrophic
    earthquake in Haiti caused untold suffering, and the American people
    have responded with speed and kindness. Donations have poured into the
    American Red Cross and other relief organizations. On the ground in
    Haiti, American search-and-rescue teams have pulled survivors from the
    rubble, and volunteer medical professionals continue to treat victims
    and save lives.
    Our Nation's leadership relies upon our citizens who are motivated to
    act by our common humanity. This month, let us come together to
    celebrate the American spirit of generosity, and the dedicated
    individuals and organizations who keep that spirit alive.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, 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 the laws of the
    United States, do hereby proclaim March 2010 as American Red Cross
    Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this month with appropriate
    programs, ceremonies, and activities, and by supporting the work of our
    Nation's service and relief organizations.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day
    of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    fourth.
    BARACK OBAMA