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

    Proclamation 9808 of October 19, 2018

    National Character Counts Week, 2018

    By the President of the United States of America

    A Proclamation

    America is improved every day by men and women of great character and
    integrity who understand that a responsible citizenry is needed to
    ensure the independence and prosperity of our Nation. The Founders
    cherished opportunities to grow, including those that require one to
    experience, learn from, and overcome hardship. In difficult times, the
    American spirit is tested and defined by the character of its citizens
    and leaders. We have withstood this test time and time again. During
    National Character Counts Week, we recognize that our Nation's continued
    success depends on the American people's courageous resolve to remain
    united through times of both triumph and tragedy. We also pledge to
    foster good character in our communities and encourage children to form
    constructive habits.
    Character is nurtured in our families and communities. Parents and
    guardians have the unique responsibility to teach young people valuable
    traits, such as perseverance, courage, respect, and hard work. Teachers
    as well as civic and church leaders also play an integral role in
    helping our children adopt habits of good behavior. Good examples set by
    mentors empower youth to make smart choices that ultimately define them
    as individuals and us as a Nation. Every American should strive to live
    by example and never stop improving their character.
    Strong families, church communities, and civic organizations have a
    significant effect on the positive development of our youth. By
    empowering these strong networks, my Administration is encouraging them
    to help our youth to do their very best, learn from mistakes, and become
    leaders. First Lady Melania Trump's BE BEST initiative is improving the
    lives of young people by championing evidence-based programs that help
    our communities focus on the emotional, social, and physical well-being
    of our children. As social media and technology provide more
    opportunities for children to communicate with each other, their ability
    to influence others and be a force for good also expands.
    This week, especially, we refocus our efforts to be good examples--to
    our Nation's youth and each other--and to promote acts of service and
    leadership. We also express our gratitude to parents, guardians,
    teachers, civic and church leaders, and mentors for their vital work in
    raising children of strong character and integrity.

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    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 October 21 through
    October 27, 2018, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon public
    officials, educators, parents, students, and all Americans to observe
    this week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of
    October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-
    third.
    DONALD J. TRUMP