National Defense Transportation Day and National

Proclamation 7439 of May 16, 2001

National Defense Transportation Day and National

Transportation Week, 2001
By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

America's achievements in transportation have helped
lay the foundation for our strength and prosperity. As
our Nation moves forward into the 21st century, we
celebrate how modern transportation has transformed the
world and recognize the many men and women who have
contributed to its development and advancement.

Whether traveling by road, rail, water, or air,
Americans can choose among a large number of options in
reaching their destinations. But beyond moving people,
our diverse transportation system also makes possible
the delivery of countless products throughout the
country. Whether intended for individuals, private
organizations, government agencies, or merchants, the
shipment and transfer of these goods helps to generate
and sustain the economic growth that benefits us all.

Our transportation system also contributes vitally to
the security of the United States. From the early days
of the merchant marine at the time of our Nation's
founding, to the latest in 21st century aircraft, our
diverse methods of transportation have moved troops and
carried defense cargo quickly and efficiently both in
peacetime and in war.

To meet America's future needs, our Nation must take
advantage of scientific and technological innovation to
improve existing transportation systems and develop new
ones. We must strive to enhance their reliability and
efficiency and close the gap between the demand for
transportation and the capacity of the transportation
infrastructure.

At the same time, safety will always remain our top
priority. Investments in transportation must contribute
to the security of the traveling public and improve
access for all Americans. Our efforts to modify and
strengthen transportation systems must also safeguard
the environment and use energy wisely. Through these
measures, we can conserve our precious natural
resources and reinforce the transportation
infrastructure our Nation needs to thrive in a dynamic
and competitive world.

To recognize the men and women who work in
transportation and thereby contribute to our Nation's
well-being, defense, and progress, the United States
Congress, by joint resolution approved May 16, 1957 (36
U.S.C. 120) has designated the third Friday in May of
each year as ``National Defense Transportation Day,''
and, by joint resolution approved May 14, 1962 (36
U.S.C. 133), declared that the week during which that
Friday falls be designated ``National Transportation
Week.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim Friday,
May 18, 2001, as National Defense Transportation Day
and May 13 through May 19, 2001, as National
Transportation Week. I urge all Americans to recognize
how our modern transportation system has enhanced our
economy and contributed to our quality of life.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
sixteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two
thousand one, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and twenty-fifth.

(Presidential Sig.)B