    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 132, 115th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 9762 of May 31, 2018

    National Ocean Month, 2018

    By the President of the United States of America

    A Proclamation

    The United States is a nation whose identity, wealth, and security are
    inextricably linked with the ocean and coastal waters. From sea to
    shining sea, Americans benefit from the ocean's bounty--from the
    industries it supports and the jobs it creates. During National Ocean
    Month, we celebrate this immense natural resource, and the millions of
    hardworking Americans employed by our ocean industries. We recognize the
    many ways our oceans and coasts enhance our lives. We acknowledge that
    our Nation can more effectively and responsibly harness its waters to
    the great benefit of its citizens.

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    Through the unique geography of its mainland and the strategic locations
    of Alaska, Hawaii, and its territories, the United States has the
    exclusive commercial rights to an oceanic area larger than the combined
    landmass of the 50 States. This invaluable national asset, called the
    United States Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), is currently underutilized.
    To harness the vast resources of the EEZ, we will develop and deploy new
    technologies in partnership with American academic institutions and
    innovators. We will streamline regulations and administrative practices
    to promote economic growth, while protecting our marine environment for
    current and future generations. We will also create new opportunities
    for American products in the global marketplace, including through
    continued support of our commercial fisheries and promotion of domestic
    aquaculture.
    To advance America's economic, security, and environmental interests, it
    is also critical that we explore, map, and inventory our Nation's waters
    and pursue advanced observational technologies and forecasting
    capabilities. By exploring, developing, and conserving the ocean
    resources of our great Nation, we will augment our economic
    competitiveness, enhance our national security, and ensure American
    prosperity.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, 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 June 2018 as National
    Ocean Month. This month, I call upon Americans to reflect on the value
    and importance of oceans not only to our security and economy, but also
    as a source of recreation, enjoyment, and relaxation.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
    May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-
    second.
    DONALD J. TRUMP