[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 40 (Monday, October 9, 2006)]
[Page 1756]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8065--Columbus Day, 2006

 October 5, 2006

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    More than five centuries ago, Christopher Columbus boldly set out on 
a long and challenging journey across the Atlantic that led the way for 
exploration of the Americas. On Columbus Day, we celebrate the historic 
voyages of the Italian explorer and honor his life, heritage, and 
lasting legacy.
    Columbus' brave expeditions expanded the horizons of human knowledge 
and inspired generations of risk-takers and pioneers in America and 
around the world. Our Nation is built on the efforts of men and women 
who possess both the vision to see beyond what is and the desire to 
pursue what might be. Today, the same passion for discovery that drove 
Columbus is leading bold visionaries to explore the frontiers of space, 
find new energy sources, and solve our most difficult medical 
challenges.
    Columbus Day is also an opportunity to celebrate the heritage we 
share with the legendary explorer, the important relationship between 
the United States and Italy, and the proud Italian Americans who call 
our Nation home. Italian Americans have strengthened our country and 
enriched our culture, and through service in our Armed Forces, many have 
defended our Nation with courage and helped lay the foundation of peace 
for generations to come.
    In commemoration of Columbus' journey, the Congress, by joint 
resolution of April 30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C. 107), as 
amended, has requested that the President proclaim the second Monday of 
October of each year as ``Columbus Day.''
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush,  President of the United States 
of America, do hereby proclaim October 9, 2006, as Columbus Day. I call 
upon the people of the United States to observe this day with 
appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag of 
the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed 
day in honor of Christopher Columbus.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of 
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., October 10, 
2006]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
October 11.