American Red Cross Month, 2003

Proclamation 7648 of February 28, 2003

American Red Cross Month, 2003

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Throughout our history, Americans have been committed
to helping the suffering, the disadvantaged, and those
in need of help. The American Red Cross represents the
compassion of our Nation in action. During American Red
Cross Month, we honor this remarkable organization and
recognize its proud heritage of service.

For more than 121 years, the Red Cross has upheld its
mission to provide relief to victims of disasters and
to help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to
emergencies. Last year, the Red Cross helped victims of
more than 70,000 disasters, ranging from dwelling fires
to widespread catastrophes such as hurricanes, floods,
tornadoes, and wildfires. Around the world, the Red
Cross contributed to international efforts that aided
other countries devastated by natural disasters,
assisted people in getting access to safe drinking
water, and battled malnutrition and life-threatening
diseases. More than half a million U.S. military
families received direct assistance from the Red Cross,
helping them stay connected with their loved ones,
despite difficult circumstances.

The American Red Cross also strengthens our communities
by encouraging citizens to be involved and to help
their neighbors in need. Last year, more than 1.2
million everyday heroes volunteered at their local Red
Cross chapters, and almost 12 million more took the
time to learn lifesaving skills such as first aid, CPR,
and defibrillator use. And more than 4 million citizens
answered the call for blood donors, giving 7.2 million
blood donations through the American Red Cross.

During these times of great consequence, the mission of
the Red Cross is more critical than ever. As our Nation
confronts new challenges, the American Red Cross and
its partners are working with the Federal Government
and the emergency planning community to help keep
America safe. Through its ``Together We Prepare''
campaign, the Red Cross is a vital partner with the
Department of Homeland Security in empowering
individuals and families to protect themselves and be
prepared for the unexpected.

Countless people across our country turn to the
American Red Cross every day for blood and blood
products, disaster assistance, and vital community
services. We are grateful for this essential and
inspiring organization, and we celebrate its legacy of
help, hope, and healing for those in need.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America and Honorary Chairman of the
American Red Cross, by virtue of the authority vested
in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim March 2003 as American Red
Cross Month. As we celebrate this month, I call upon
all citizens to become partners in preparedness with
their local Red Cross chapters and to become active
participants in advancing the noble mission of the
American Red Cross.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-eighth day of February, in the year of our Lord
two thousand three, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.

(Presidential Sig.)B