[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 23 (Monday, June 16, 2008)]
[Pages 827-828]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8270--Father's Day, 2008

 June 12, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    On Father's Day, we honor our Nation's fathers for the unconditional 
love they give to their children and for their selfless dedication to 
the well-being of their families.
    Fathers play a unique and irreplaceable part in the lives of their 
children and pass along values that help children grow into responsible 
adults. By providing their sons and daughters with a positive example, 
fathers help give their children the necessary foundation they need to 
make wise decisions throughout their lives. Fathers strive to inspire 
their children to lead lives of integrity, honor, and purpose, and they 
pray for wisdom and the strength to give their children the love and 
support they need to achieve their dreams.
    All Americans are thankful for the extraordinary efforts of our 
Nation's fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and guardians. Their 
devotion and encouragement as mentors, providers, and role models help 
strengthen their families and our country. We are especially grateful 
for the fathers who serve in

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our Nation's Armed Forces. These dedicated fathers protect liberty so 
that all children can have a more promising future. We pray for the safe 
return of all those serving overseas, and we thank the fathers who 
support sons and daughters who are defending our freedom around the 
globe.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, in accordance with a joint resolution of the Congress approved 
April 24, 1972, as amended (36 U.S.C. 109), do hereby proclaim June 15, 
2008, as Father's Day. I encourage all Americans to express their 
appreciation to all fathers for their many contributions to our Nation's 
children. I direct the appropriate officials of the Government to 
display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on 
this day. I also call upon State and local governments and citizens to 
observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of 
June, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, 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, 10:08 a.m., June 16, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
June 17. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish 
language version of this proclamation.