[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