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

    PROCLAMATION 8564--SEPT. 17, 2010

    Proclamation 8564 of September 17, 2010
    National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Since our Nation's founding over 200 years ago, patriotic Americans have
    answered the call of duty when our country has needed it most. As family
    members, employees, and leaders in their communities, members of the
    National Guard and Reserve give of themselves at home and abroad to
    preserve the American way of life. These dedicated citizens leave the
    comfort of their civilian lives to wear the uniform of the United
    States, protect our freedoms around the world, and serve within our
    borders during times of peace as well as turmoil. As we celebrate
    National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week, we honor those
    who serve in the National Guard and Reserve, and we give thanks to their
    employers, whose support and encouragement is critical to the strength
    of our Armed Forces.
    Making up nearly half of our military force, the men and women in the
    National Guard and Reserve play a vital role in our national defense.
    Throughout the year, they train and prepare for new challenges faced in
    missions at home and across the globe. Whether providing assistance in
    response to natural disasters and emergencies, helping secure our
    borders to protect our homeland, or fighting on the front lines to
    defend our freedom, these gallant service members are willing to pay the
    ultimate sacrifice in the service of others. Their dedication commands
    the admiration of us all as they balance the demands of civilian and
    military life.
    During this week, we pay special tribute to the employers of our
    Guardsmen and Reservists, whose support and flexibility bolster the
    contributions of these brave men and women. Through accommodating
    personnel policies that encourage National Guard and Reserve
    participation, and by bearing financial and organizational
    responsibilities, these employers ensure that our troops are mission-
    ready when they are activated, and that their families will have the
    support they need before and after their loved ones' mobilization.
    Our Nation has always relied upon the service of citizen-soldiers to
    protect our lives and liberties. During National Employer Support of the
    Guard and Reserve Week, we recognize both the exceptional spirit of
    service that characterizes these individuals, and their employers'

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    commitment to maintaining the safety and security of the United States
    by caring for those who defend it.
    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 September 19 through
    September 25, 2010, as National Employer Support of the Guard and
    Reserve Week. I call upon all Americans to join me in expressing our
    heartfelt thanks to the members of the National Guard and Reserve and
    their civilian employers. I also call on State and local officials,
    private organizations, and all military commanders, to observe this week
    with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of
    September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    fifth.
    BARACK OBAMA