American Red Cross Month, 2008

Proclamation 8221 of February 28, 2008

American Red Cross Month, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

In 1881, Clara Barton established the American Red
Cross, and for years afterward, she led that
organization in its noble cause to provide healing,
comfort, and hope to those in need. Today, her legacy
lives on through the millions of individuals who have
answered the timeless call to serve others. During
American Red Cross Month, we honor this charitable
organization, and we reflect on its remarkable
achievements and contributions to our country.

The American Red Cross exemplifies the good heart of
this Nation by leading humanitarian efforts at home and
around the world. This past year the American Red Cross
provided food, comfort, and medical assistance to the
victims of the tragic bridge collapse in Minnesota, the
devastating wildfires in California, and the tornadoes
that affected several Southern States. From the
mountains of Peru to the lowlands of Bangladesh, the
American Red Cross and its partners helped to provide
relief abroad to those affected by natural disasters
and humanitarian emergencies.

The American Red Cross also helps provide vital
assistance by organizing blood drives, teaching health
and safety programs, and providing lifesaving supplies.
By compassionately supporting our men and women in
uniform and their families, it helps to lift the
spirits of our wounded warriors. During this month, we
send our heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers and
staff of the American Red Cross.

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 2008 as American Red
Cross Month. I commend the dedicated efforts of the
American Red Cross, and I encourage all Americans to
help make our world a better place by volunteering
their time, energy, and talents for others.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-eighth day of February, 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.