[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 52 (Monday, January 2, 2006)]
[Page 1921]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Observance of New Year's Day, 2006

December 30, 2005

    The New Year is a time of hope as we reflect on the past and prepare 
for the future.
    The great strength of our Nation lies in the hearts and souls of the 
American people. This past year, Americans responded with an outpouring 
of compassion to help the people of the Gulf Coast region recover from 
one of the most devastating natural disasters in our Nation's history. 
We remember the victims of the past year's hurricanes and give thanks 
for the millions of people who opened their hearts, homes, and 
communities to those in need.
    In the past year, we continued our work to spread freedom and peace. 
In 2005, Iraqis three times exercised their right to vote in free 
elections, and the Afghan people conducted successful parliamentary 
elections. In the coming year, America will continue to stand beside 
these young democracies and lay the foundation of peace for our children 
and grandchildren.
    We appreciate the brave men and women in uniform who protect our 
country and advance freedom around the world. We are grateful to their 
families for their support and sacrifice, and we pray for all those who 
have lost loved ones in freedom's cause. Our Nation will always remember 
the heroes who have given their lives to protect us all.
    As we celebrate the New Year, we give thanks to God for His 
blessings and ask for His guidance. We look with hope to the year ahead 
and the many new opportunities the future will bring.
    Laura and I send our best wishes for a happy New Year. May God bless 
you, and may God continue to bless America.
                                                George W. Bush

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