[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 40 (Monday, October 8, 2007)]
[Pages 1300-1301]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8186--Columbus Day, 2007

 October 4, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    In 1492, Christopher Columbus set sail on a journey that changed the 
course of history. On Columbus Day, we celebrate this voyage of 
discovery and honor an Italian explorer who shaped the destiny of the 
New World.
    Christopher Columbus' bold journey across the Atlantic opened new 
frontiers of exploration and demonstrated the power of perseverance. His 
journeys inspired other risk-takers and dreamers to test the bounds of 
their imagination and gave them the courage to accomplish great feats, 
whether crossing the world's oceans or walking on the moon. Today, a new 
generation of innovators and pioneers continues to uphold the finest 
values of our country--discipline, ingenuity, and unity in the pursuit 
of great goals.
    As we look back on the contributions of the great explorer from 
Genoa, we also celebrate the many contributions that generations of 
Italian Americans have made to our

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Nation. Their service to America and ties to family, faith, and 
community have strengthened our country and enriched our culture.
    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 8, 2007, 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 fourth day of 
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:55 a.m., October 5, 
2007]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
October 9.