[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 18 (Monday, May 8, 2006)]
[Page 827]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8011--Loyalty Day, 2006

 April 28, 2006

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Our Nation is blessed and bound together by a creed of freedom and 
equality that is entrusted to all Americans. Preserving the ideals of 
our founding requires the service and sacrifice of every generation, and 
on Loyalty Day, we celebrate the gift of liberty and remember our own 
obligation to this great Nation.
    The dedication and selflessness of America's soldiers and their 
families inspire us all. Some of our Nation's finest men and women have 
given their lives in freedom's cause. By their sacrifices they have 
given us a legacy of liberty and brought honor to the uniform, our flag, 
and our country. The American people are grateful to the brave men and 
women of our military for their service and we will always stand behind 
them. I encourage all Americans to learn more about opportunities to 
thank and support our troops, from sending a care package to writing a 
message, by visiting www.americasupportsyou.mil.
    Loyalty Day is also a time for us to reflect on our responsibilities 
to our country as we work to show the world the meaning and promise of 
liberty. The right to vote is one of our most cherished rights and 
voting is one of our most fundamental duties. By making a commitment to 
be good citizens, flying the American flag, or taking the time to learn 
about our Nation's history, we show our gratitude for the blessings of 
freedom.
    The greatest strength of America is in the heart and soul of its 
people, and every time a volunteer reaches out to a neighbor in need, 
our Nation grows stronger and more hopeful. Thousands of Americans are 
serving a higher calling by mentoring, coaching, serving in Senior 
Corps, and by participating in many other programs that enrich lives and 
help build a better tomorrow. The light of freedom shines brightly 
because of compassionate people who care about others. Their dedication 
to a cause greater than self gives all Americans confidence in the 
future of our Nation.
    The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, as amended, has designated May 1 
of each year as ``Loyalty Day.'' I ask all Americans to join me in this 
day of celebration and in reaffirming our allegiance to our Nation.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2006, as Loyalty Day. I call upon 
all the people of the United States to join in support of this national 
observance, and to display the flag of the United States on Loyalty Day.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth 
day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, 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, 8:50 a.m., May 2, 2006]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 3. 
This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate 
issue.