[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 13 (Monday, April 4, 2005)]
[Page 547]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7880--National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2005

 April 1, 2005

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    From the time of our Nation's founding, members of our military have 
built a tradition of honorable and faithful service. As they fought to 
protect our security and defend our ideals, some endured the extreme 
hardship of enemy captivity. On National Former Prisoner of War 
Recognition Day, we remember those courageous individuals taken prisoner 
while defending our country, and we honor their extraordinary 
sacrifices.
    America's former prisoners of war are among our Nation's bravest 
heroes. Under the worst conditions, they fought fiercely and served with 
honor, and they continue to inspire generations with their strength and 
perseverance. In serving our Nation, each demonstrated personal courage, 
love of country, and devotion to duty. Because of their sacrifices, and 
the selflessness and heroism of all who have served in our Armed Forces, 
millions of people now live in freedom, and America remains the greatest 
force for good on Earth. On this day, we honor their role in protecting 
our country and the liberty of mankind.
    Today, our brave men and women in uniform carry on their legacy--
unrelenting in battle, unwavering in loyalty, and unmatched in decency. 
As we pursue victory in the war on terror, I join all Americans in 
expressing our deepest gratitude to every service member who has been a 
prisoner of war and to their families.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 9, 2005, as 
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. I call upon the people 
of the United States to join me in remembering former American prisoners 
of war by honoring their sacrifices. I also call upon Federal, State, 
and local government officials and private organizations to observe this 
day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
ninth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 10:49 a.m., April 4, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
April 5.