[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 24 (Monday, June 20, 2005)]
[Pages 1011-1012]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7911--Father's Day, 2005

 June 16, 2005

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Being a father is a great responsibility and a great joy. From the 
moment their children are born, fathers face the daily tasks of being 
mentors, protectors, providers, and friends. Fathers take great pride in 
watching their children take their first steps, learn to read, and 
attend their first day of school. On Father's Day, our Nation honors 
fathers across America, and we express our deep gratitude for their 
selfless love and sacrifices.
    Caring, decent, and hardworking fathers give much of themselves. By 
offering unconditional love and providing guidance and discipline, a 
father is a source of stability and one of the most important influences 
on his children. A father's example helps shape the character and values 
that his children will carry with them into adulthood, and the lessons 
he teaches remain with them for a lifetime. By encouraging his sons and 
daughters to set high standards, work hard, and make good decisions, a 
father shows his children that they can meet life's challenges and be 
good citizens.
    Responsible fatherhood is essential to a compassionate society in 
which all children are surrounded by love and taught the importance of 
respect, honesty, and integrity. My Administration commends all those 
who are working to strengthen the bonds between fathers and their 
children.
    On Father's Day and all year long, we honor our Nation's fathers and 
express our love and appreciation for them. We also honor the many proud 
fathers who are serving our country on the front lines of freedom. We 
are grateful for their service and sacrifice, and we pray for them and 
their families. These men have answered a great call, and they set an 
example of duty and honor for all Americans.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, in accordance with a joint resolution of the Congress approved 
April 24, 1972, as amended (36 U.S.C. 109), do hereby proclaim June 19, 
2005, as Father's Day. I direct the appropriate officials of the 
Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government 
buildings on this day. I also call upon State and local governments and 
citizens to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and 
activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day 
of June, 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

[[Page 1012]]

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 10:40 a.m., June 17, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on June 
20.