American Red Cross Month, 2015

Proclamation 9235 of February 27, 2015

American Red Cross Month, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For more than 130 years, the devoted women and men of
the American Red Cross have responded to challenges at
home and abroad with compassion and generosity. In
times of conflict and great tragedy, they deliver
humanitarian relief, save lives, and offer hope for a
brighter tomorrow. Their service has meant so much to
so many, and it reflects a fundamental American truth:
we look out for one another and we do not leave anyone
behind. This month, we renew our sense of common
purpose and honor all those whose sacrifices have made
our society more prepared, resilient, and united.

As a nurse and educator, Clara Barton dedicated her
life to caring for others and alleviating suffering.
After years of tending to soldiers and families in
their hour of need, she established the American Red
Cross, creating a force for peace and recovery in the
wake of the Civil War and opening paths for millions
across our Nation to serve their brothers and sisters.
In the generations that followed, the American Red
Cross and other service and relief organizations have
combated pandemics, supported our Armed Forces, and
provided disaster relief and mitigation worldwide.

In big cities and rural towns, American Red Cross
volunteers support their communities, helping people
donate blood, teaching first aid, and increasing local
preparedness. Last year, our Nation once again bore
witness to their grit and resolve as thousands
mobilized in response to devastating mudslides,
tornadoes, wildfires, and other emergencies. As
selfless individuals step forward--as neighbors assist
neighbors, schools transform into shelters, and
donations become hot meals and dry clothes--they carry
forward Barton's legacy and safeguard the promise that
in moments of darkness, there is hope. They remind us
that when we stand together, America emerges stronger.

Our Nation has always been shaped by ordinary Americans
who dedicate their lives to achieving the
extraordinary. During American Red Cross Month, let us
ask what we can do for those around us and resolve to
make service to others a part of our everyday lives.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, 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 the laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim March 2015 as American Red
Cross Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this
month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and
activities, and by supporting the work of service and
relief organizations.

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