American Red Cross Month, 2013

Proclamation 8933 of February 28, 2013

American Red Cross Month, 2013

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Since our Nation's founding, seasons of trial and
bitter hardship have revealed a core belief we share as
Americans: that when we see our neighbors in need, we
will always stand united in helping them get back on
their feet. This month, we honor men and women who
deliver relief to communities around the world, and we
renew the compassionate spirit that continues to keep
our country strong and our people safe.

The American Red Cross has proudly upheld a commitment
to service that spans generations. Witness to the scars
left by civil war, Clara Barton founded the
organization in 1881 as a way to lift up the
suffering--from warriors wounded in the line of duty to
families displaced by damaging storms. In the years
since, countless service and relief organizations have
joined the American Red Cross in realizing that noble
vision.

We saw the depth of their dedication just 4 months ago,
when the sweeping devastation of Hurricane Sandy put
millions of Americans in harm's way. In darkness and
danger, thousands of professionals and volunteers
stepped up to serve. They secured supplies and shelter
when our people needed them most. And when times were
tough, they proved that America is tougher because we
all pull together.

That sense of resolve has seen our Nation through our
greatest challenges, and the conviction that we are our
brothers' and sisters' keepers will always remain at
the heart of who we are as a people. As we reflect on
the ties that bind us together, let us pay tribute to
humanitarian organizations working here at home and
around the world, and let us rededicate ourselves to
service in the months ahead.

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 2013 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-eighth day of February, in the year of our Lord
two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.