Wright Brothers Day, 2008

Proclamation 8329 of December 16, 2008

Wright Brothers Day, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Our history is rich with pioneers and innovators who
used their God-given talents to improve our Nation and
the world. On Wright Brothers Day, we commemorate two
brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright, who took great
risks and ushered in a new era of travel and discovery.

With intrepid spirits and a passion for innovation,
Orville and Wilbur Wright became the first to
experience the thrill of manned, powered flight. On
December 17, 1903, Orville Wright flew for 12 seconds
over the North Carolina sand dunes in the presence of
only five people. In the span of one lifetime, our
Nation has seen aviation progress from the first
tentative takeoff at Kitty Hawk to an age of supersonic
flight and space exploration.

On this Wright Brothers Day, we recognize all those who
have taken great risks and contributed to our country's
legacy of exploration and discovery. This year, we also
celebrate the centennial of the world's first passenger
flight. By remaining dedicated to extending the
frontiers of knowledge, we can ensure that the United
States will continue to lead the world in science,
innovation, and technology, and build a better future
for generations to come.

The Congress, by a joint resolution approved December
17, 1963, as amended (77 Stat. 402; 36 U.S.C. 143), has
designated December 17 of each year as ``Wright
Brothers Day'' and has authorized and requested the
President to issue annually a proclamation inviting the
people of the United States to observe that day with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim December
17, 2008, as Wright Brothers Day.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
sixteenth day of December, 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.