    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 128, 113th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 9208--NOV. 7, 2014

    Proclamation 9208 of November 7, 2014

    Veterans Day, 2014

    By the President of the United States of America

    A Proclamation

    Since the birth of our Nation, American patriots have stepped forward to
    serve our country and defend our way of life. With honor and
    distinction, generations of servicemen and women have taken up arms to
    win our independence, preserve our Union, and secure our freedom. From
    the Minutemen to our Post-9/11 Generation, these heroes have put their
    lives on the line so that we might live in a world that is safer, freer,
    and more just, and we owe them a profound debt of gratitude. On Veterans
    Day, we salute the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast
    Guardsmen who have rendered the highest service any American can offer,
    and we rededicate ourselves to fulfilling our commitment to all those
    who serve in our name.
    Today, we are reminded of our solemn obligation: to serve our veterans
    as well as they have served us. As we continue our responsible drawdown
    from the war in Afghanistan and more members of our military return to
    civilian life, we must support their transition and make sure they have
    access to the resources and benefits they have earned. My Administration
    is working to end the tragedy of homelessness among

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    our veterans, and we are committed to providing them with quality health
    care, access to education, and the tools they need to find a rewarding
    career. As a Nation, we must ensure that every veteran has the chance to
    share in the opportunity he or she has helped to defend. Those who have
    served in our Armed Forces have the experience, skills, and dedication
    necessary to achieve success as members of our civilian workforce, and
    it is critical that we harness their talent.
    Across our country, veterans who fought to protect our democracy around
    the globe are strengthening it here at home. Once leaders in the Armed
    Forces, they are now pioneers of industry and pillars of their
    communities. Their character reflects our enduring American spirit, and
    in their example, we find inspiration and strength.
    This day, and every day, we pay tribute to America's sons and daughters
    who have answered our country's call. We recognize the sacrifice of
    those who have been part of the finest fighting force the world has ever
    known and the loved ones who stand beside them. We will never forget the
    heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice and all those who have not yet
    returned home. As a grateful Nation, let us show our appreciation by
    honoring all our veterans and working to ensure the promise of America
    is within the reach of all who have protected it.
    With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service
    members have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world,
    the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each
    year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor our Nation's
    veterans.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2014, as Veterans Day. I
    encourage all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our
    veterans through appropriate public ceremonies and private prayers. I
    call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the
    United States and to participate in patriotic activities in their
    communities. I call on all Americans, including civic and fraternal
    organizations, places of worship, schools, and communities to support
    this day with commemorative expressions and programs.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of
    November, in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    ninth.
    BARACK OBAMA