[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 33 (Monday, August 22, 2005)]
[Page 1287]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7917--National Airborne Day, 2005

August 15, 2005

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    Americans live in freedom because of the extraordinary bravery, 
sacrifice, and dedication to duty of the members of our Armed Forces. 
From the first official Army parachute jump 65 years ago, our country's 
Airborne troops have played a crucial role in the defense of our Nation 
and our liberty. On National Airborne Day, we pay special tribute to 
these courageous soldiers who served with honor and integrity.
    On August 16, 1940, the successful first jump of the Army Parachute 
Test Platoon laid the foundation for a new and innovative method of 
combat that helped contribute to an Allied victory in World War II. 
These bold pioneers answered the call of duty and set an example for 
future generations to follow. Since the designation of the Army's first 
Airborne division, the 82nd Airborne, on August 15, 1942, our Airborne 
troops have performed with valor. The brave men and women of our 
Airborne forces have worked to defeat tyranny, advance the cause of 
liberty, and build a safer world.
    Today a new generation of Airborne forces is fighting a war against 
an enemy that threatens the peace and stability of the world. At this 
critical time, Airborne forces of the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force 
are continuing the noble tradition of the first sky soldiers. Americans 
are grateful for the service of our Airborne forces and all our troops, 
and we are inspired by the strength and sacrifice of our military 
members and 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 August 16, 2005, as 
National Airborne Day. I encourage all Americans to honor those who have 
served in the Airborne forces, and I also call upon all citizens to 
observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day 
of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., August 17, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on August 
18.