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Veterans Day, 2008
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For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary October 31, 2008

Veterans Day, 2008 A Proclamation by the President of the United States of
America

˙˙White House News
˙˙En Espa¤ol


On Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the men and
women who in defense of our freedom have bravely worn the uniform of the
United States.

From the fields and forests of war-torn Europe to the jungles of Southeast
Asia, from the deserts of Iraq to the mountains of Afghanistan, brave
patriots have protected our Nation's ideals, rescued millions from tyranny,
and helped spread freedom around the globe. America's veterans answered the
call when asked to protect our Nation from some of the most brutal and
ruthless tyrants, terrorists, and militaries the world has ever known. They
stood tall in the face of grave danger and enabled our Nation to become the
greatest force for freedom in human history. Members of the Army, Navy, Air
Force, Marines, and Coast Guard have answered a high calling to serve and
have helped secure America at every turn.

Our country is forever indebted to our veterans for their quiet courage and
exemplary service. We also remember and honor those who laid down their
lives in freedom's defense. These brave men and women made the ultimate
sacrifice for our benefit. On Veterans Day, we remember these heroes for
their valor, their loyalty, and their dedication. Their selfless sacrifices
continue to inspire us today as we work to advance peace and extend freedom
around the world.

With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service
members have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the
Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each year
shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor America's veterans.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2008, as Veterans Day and urge all
Americans to observe November 9 through November 15, 2008, as National
Veterans Awareness Week. I encourage all Americans to recognize the bravery
and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers. I call upon
Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United
States and to support and participate in patriotic activities in their
communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship,
schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this national
observance with commemorative expressions and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH

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