[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 10 (Monday, March 10, 2003)]
[Pages 263-264]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7648--American Red Cross Month, 2003

 February 28, 2003

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Throughout our history, Americans have been committed to helping the 
suffering, the disadvantaged, and those in need of help. The American 
Red Cross represents the compassion of our Nation in action. During 
American Red Cross Month, we honor this remarkable organization and 
recognize its proud heritage of service.
    For more than 121 years, the Red Cross has upheld its mission to 
provide relief to victims of disasters and to help people prevent, 
prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Last year, the Red Cross helped 
victims of more than 70,000 disasters, ranging from dwelling fires to 
widespread catastrophes such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and 
wildfires. Around the world, the Red Cross contributed to international 
efforts that aided other countries devastated by natural disasters, 
assisted people in getting access to safe drinking water, and battled 
malnutrition and life-threatening diseases. More than half a million 
U.S. military families received direct assistance from the Red Cross, 
helping them stay connected with their loved ones, despite difficult 
circumstances.
    The American Red Cross also strengthens our communities by 
encouraging citizens to be involved and to help their neighbors in need. 
Last year, more than 1.2 million everyday heroes volunteered at their 
local Red Cross chapters, and almost 12 million more took the time to 
learn lifesaving skills such as first aid, CPR, and defibrillator use. 
And more than 4 million citizens answered the call for blood donors, 
giving 7.2 million blood donations through the American Red Cross.
    During these times of great consequence, the mission of the Red 
Cross is more critical than ever. As our Nation confronts new 
challenges, the American Red Cross and its partners are working with the 
Federal Government and the emergency planning community to help keep 
America safe. Through its ``Together We Prepare'' campaign, the Red 
Cross is a vital partner with the Department of Homeland Security in 
empowering individuals and families to protect themselves and be 
prepared for the unexpected.
    Countless people across our country turn to the American Red Cross 
every day for blood and blood products, disaster assistance, and vital 
community services. We are grateful for this essential and inspiring 
organization, and we celebrate its legacy of help, hope, and healing for 
those in need.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, 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 laws of the United 
States, do hereby proclaim March 2003 as American Red Cross Month. As we 
celebrate this month, I call upon all citizens to become partners in 
preparedness with their local Red Cross chapters and to become active 
participants in advancing the noble mission of the American Red Cross.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth 
day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, 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, 9:11 a.m., March 4, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
5. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate 
issue.

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