Loyalty Day, 2009

Proclamation 8368 of May 1, 2009

Loyalty Day, 2009

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

More than two centuries ago, our Nation's Founders
declared the birth of a new Nation and began an
experiment in self-governance. The young Republic
committed itself to protecting the rights of life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all citizens.
These ideals inspired loyalty to the young Nation and
moved volunteers to fight for their independence.

Generations later, these founding principles continue
to unify and command the loyalty of the American
people. The United States has expanded in size,
increased in population, and grown in diversity, yet
the promise of liberty and the pursuit of happiness
arouse the patriotism and loyalty of Americans anew.
Just as early settlers pledged to do their part to
build the new Nation, now recent immigrants--loyal to
the very same values--are helping America fulfill its
promise.

We enjoy these blessings of liberty only because brave
patriots have answered the call of duty. The men and
women of the United States Armed Forces exemplify
loyalty to our highest ideals, as do those who have
fought valiantly for civil rights within our borders.
These Americans and many others have made enormous
sacrifices, and our Nation is grateful for their
selflessness and unshakeable loyalty.

The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, as amended, has
designated May 1 of each year as ``Loyalty Day.'' On
Loyalty Day, we honor our Nation and remember with
pride the courageous individuals who help keep it safe
and strong and who honor its legacy of freedom and
equal opportunity.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1,
2009, as Loyalty Day. I call upon all the people of the
United States to join in support of this national
observance and to display the flag of the United States
on Loyalty Day.

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