[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 127, 113th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 9025--SEPT. 26, 2013

Proclamation 9025 of September 26, 2013

Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day, 2013
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
In our city centers and our bustling parks, monuments stand dedicated to
visionary leaders and singular moments in the life of our Republic. But
in empty seats at family dinners and folded flags above the mantle, we
find the constant thread of our Nation's character--the truth that
America endures because it is home to an unbroken line of patriots
willing to lay down their lives for the land they love. As we honor the
men and women who gave their last full measure of devotion, we hold
close the families left behind.
Most of us can only imagine the pain of a mother who loses a daughter,
the husband who loses his partner, or the son who loses a father.


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Prepared to serve others at any cost, their loved ones exemplified the
values of courage and selflessness that define our Armed Forces and
fortify our Union. The families of the fallen embody that same
character. Amid their sorrow, these homefront heroes support one another
and lift up their communities. As our country seeks to understand the
depth of their sacrifice, we draw strength and inspiration from their
example.
On this day, we remember our commitment to the Gold Star mothers and
families who carry on with pride and resolve despite unthinkable loss.
We recall our sacred obligation to those who gave their lives so we
could live ours. As a grateful Nation, we declare that we will never
forget their sacrifice, and we renew our promise to build a future
worthy of their devotion. We also recognize our countrymen and women who
continue the fight, putting their lives on the line each day. Long after
the battle is over, we will continue to give our military and Gold Star
families the care and support they deserve--in a listening ear, a
comforting shoulder, a helping hand, and a moment given to keep alive
the memories of their Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast
Guardsmen.
The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat.
1985 as amended), has designated the last Sunday in September as ``Gold
Star Mother's Day.''
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 29, 2013, as
Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day. I call upon all Government
officials to display the flag of the United States over Government
buildings on this special day. I also encourage the American people to
display the flag and hold appropriate ceremonies as a public expression
of our Nation's sympathy and respect for our Gold Star Mothers and
Families.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
eighth.
BARACK OBAMA