Father's Day, 2004

Proclamation 7797 of June 19, 2004

Father's Day, 2004

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

A special bond exists between a father and his
children. On Father's Day, we recognize the important
role fathers play in the American family, and we honor
them for their strength, love, and commitment.

After listening to a church service on Mother's Day
1909, Sonora Dodd proposed a day to honor fathers. She
was inspired by the courage and sacrifice of her own
father, a Civil War veteran, who reared six children by
himself after his wife's death. As others began to
celebrate it, the idea for Father's Day spread across
America. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson officially
proclaimed Father's Day as a national observance.

Fathers have a duty to love their children with all
their hearts and prepare them to be independent,
compassionate, and responsible citizens. A father's
words and actions are critical in shaping the character
of his children. A father's love helps teach them right
from wrong, explains to them the consequences of bad
decisions, and strengthens them with encouragement.

As we honor our fathers on this day, we express our
heartfelt appreciation for their leadership, support,
and protection for their children and families. We
particularly recognize the many fathers who are far
from home, serving our Nation and defending the cause
of freedom around the world. They have answered a great
call and live by a code of honor and duty that serves
as an example for their sons and daughters and for all
Americans.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, in accordance with a joint
resolution of the Congress approved April 24, 1972, as
amended (36 U.S.C. 109), do hereby proclaim June 20,
2004, as Father's Day. I encourage all Americans to
express love, admiration, and thanks to their fathers
for their contributions to our lives and to society. I
direct the appropriate officials of the Government to
display the flag of the United States on all Government
buildings on this day. I also call upon State and local
governments and citizens to observe this day with
appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
nineteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord two
thousand four, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth.

(Presidential Sig.)B