Military Spouse Day, 2008

Proclamation 8252 of May 5, 2008

Military Spouse Day, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Military spouses embody the courage, nobility of duty,
and love of country that inspire every American. On
Military Spouse Day, we pay tribute to the husbands and
wives who support their spouses in America's Armed
Forces during times of war and peace.

The legacy of military spouses began when colonial
Americans were fighting for independence. Martha
Washington boosted the morale of her husband's troops
by visiting battlefields and tending to the wounded.
Since then, members of our Armed Forces have served our
Nation accompanied by the steadfast love and support of
their spouses and families.

While our men and women in uniform are protecting our
country's founding ideals of liberty, democracy, and
justice, their spouses live with uncommon challenges,
endure sleepless nights, and spend long periods raising
children alone. Many military spouses are also
committed volunteers, serving other military families
and local communities. Our Nation benefits from the
sacrifices of our military families, and we are
inspired by their courage, strength, and leadership.

On Military Spouse Day and throughout the year, we
honor the commitment spouses have made to freedom's
cause. To learn about ways to support our troops and
their spouses and families, I encourage all Americans
to visit www.americasupportsyou.mil.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim May 9, 2008, as Military
Spouse Day. I call upon the people of the United States
to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and
activities and by expressing their gratitude to the
husbands and wives of those serving in the United
States Armed Forces.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
fifth day of May, 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.