Father's Day, 2008

Proclamation 8270 of June 12, 2008

Father's Day, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

On Father's Day, we honor our Nation's fathers for the
unconditional love they give to their children and for
their selfless dedication to the well-being of their
families.

Fathers play a unique and irreplaceable part in the
lives of their children and pass along values that help
children grow into responsible adults. By providing
their sons and daughters with a positive example,
fathers help give their children the necessary
foundation they need to make wise decisions throughout
their lives. Fathers strive to inspire their children
to lead lives of integrity, honor, and purpose, and
they pray for wisdom and the strength to give their
children the love and support they need to achieve
their dreams.

All Americans are thankful for the extraordinary
efforts of our Nation's fathers, stepfathers,
grandfathers, and guardians. Their devotion and
encouragement as mentors, providers, and role models
help strengthen their families and our country. We are
especially grateful for the fathers who serve in our
Nation's Armed Forces. These dedicated fathers protect
liberty so that all children can have a more promising
future. We pray for the safe return of all those
serving overseas, and we thank the fathers who support
sons and daughters who are defending our freedom around
the globe.

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 15,
2008, as Father's Day. I encourage all Americans to
express their appreciation to all fathers for their
many contributions to our Nation's children. 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
twelfth day of June, 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.