[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 129, 114th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9235 of February 27, 2015

American Red Cross Month, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For more than 130 years, the devoted women and men of the American Red
Cross have responded to challenges at home and abroad with compassion
and generosity. In times of conflict and great tragedy, they deliver
humanitarian relief, save lives, and offer hope for a brighter to

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morrow. Their service has meant so much to so many, and it reflects a
fundamental American truth: we look out for one another and we do not
leave anyone behind. This month, we renew our sense of common purpose
and honor all those whose sacrifices have made our society more
prepared, resilient, and united.
As a nurse and educator, Clara Barton dedicated her life to caring for
others and alleviating suffering. After years of tending to soldiers and
families in their hour of need, she established the American Red Cross,
creating a force for peace and recovery in the wake of the Civil War and
opening paths for millions across our Nation to serve their brothers and
sisters. In the generations that followed, the American Red Cross and
other service and relief organizations have combated pandemics,
supported our Armed Forces, and provided disaster relief and mitigation
worldwide.
In big cities and rural towns, American Red Cross volunteers support
their communities, helping people donate blood, teaching first aid, and
increasing local preparedness. Last year, our Nation once again bore
witness to their grit and resolve as thousands mobilized in response to
devastating mudslides, tornadoes, wildfires, and other emergencies. As
selfless individuals step forward--as neighbors assist neighbors,
schools transform into shelters, and donations become hot meals and dry
clothes--they carry forward Barton's legacy and safeguard the promise
that in moments of darkness, there is hope. They remind us that when we
stand together, America emerges stronger.
Our Nation has always been shaped by ordinary Americans who dedicate
their lives to achieving the extraordinary. During American Red Cross
Month, let us ask what we can do for those around us and resolve to make
service to others a part of our everyday lives.
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 2015 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
service and relief organizations.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-seventh day
of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
ninth.
BARACK OBAMA