[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 51 (Monday, December 23, 2002)]
[Page 2170]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7635--Wright Brothers Day, 2002

 December 16, 2002

 By the President of the United States

 of America

    Throughout our Nation's history, Americans have contributed to 
important technological breakthroughs that have improved the quality of 
life for countless individuals. On December 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, 
North Carolina, Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved the first 
successfully sustained and controlled flight with a heavier-than-air, 
engine-powered aircraft. In the 99 years since that revolutionary event, 
mankind has flown across oceans, broken the sound barrier, launched 
satellites, and landed on the moon. On Wright Brothers Day, we celebrate 
the vision and determination of these innovators whose remarkable 
achievements changed the world forever.
    The first successful powered flight on the morning of December 17, 
1903, lasted only 12 seconds and spanned approximately 120 feet; but the 
Wright brothers' ideas and design led to countless advances in aviation. 
Between 1899 and 1905, they constructed a total of seven aircraft, and 
through this extensive research and experimentation, Orville and Wilbur 
Wright established the foundation of modern aeronautics.
    The airplane has played a critical role in improving our national 
defense, our economy, and our Nation. It has enabled trade to thrive, 
strengthened our economic security, and fostered friendship and goodwill 
throughout the world. Today, Americans rely on airplanes to deliver 
emergency treatment to the sick or injured, bring families together, and 
link us to every corner of the globe.
    The United States remains committed to supporting progress in 
technology that secures air travel, enhances our national defense, and 
ensures the success and prosperity of our country. Inspired by the 
extraordinary accomplishments of the Wright brothers, our Nation will 
continue to explore new ideas, improve technology, and work for a 
brighter future for all.
    The Congress, by a joint resolution approved December 17, 1963 (77 
Stat. 402; 36 U.S.C. 143) as amended, has designated December 17 of each 
year as ``Wright Brothers Day'' and has authorized and requested the 
President to issue annually a proclamation inviting the people of the 
United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies and 
activities.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, do hereby proclaim December 17, 2002, as Wright Brothers Day. 
Through their courage and willingness to take risks, the Wright brothers 
reflect the true American character.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day 
of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., December 18, 
2002]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
December 19.