Loyalty Day, 2002

Proclamation 7549 of April 30, 2002

Loyalty Day, 2002

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Ours is a Nation of people who demonstrate their
patriotic loyalty through service to our country.
Whether born on American soil or abroad, Americans
appreciate patriotism and loyalty to our country.
President Woodrow Wilson said, ``Loyalty means nothing
unless it has at its heart the absolute principle of
self-sacrifice.'' Americans affirmed this sense of
loyalty for their homeland during and following the
attacks of September 11, 2001. Brave rescuers died
while saving others. Passengers on a hijacked airplane
gave their lives to prevent the deaths of fellow
Americans. Americans pledged to fight terrorism, both
here and across the globe.

Since that tragic day, citizens across our country
overwhelmingly gave their time and resources to help
those in need. These countless expressions of
patriotism reflect an inspiring devotion to our fellow
citizens and our Nation.

For our military personnel, loyalty and dedication is a
way of life. The men and women of our Armed Forces
embody loyalty as they work to protect our ideals.
Throughout our history, America's military has
heroically defended our country and its founding
principles of freedom and democracy. Today, our
military is again responding to the call of duty with
courage and pride. These brave individuals who risk
their lives fighting terror honor those who have made
the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the American
people.

Our Constitution speaks of forming ``a more perfect
Union,'' and Americans have always responded to this
call with commitment and character. Brave citizens have
fought to abolish slavery, to extend voting rights to
all our citizens, and to uphold civil rights. The
struggle to improve our Nation also takes place on an
individual level, one person at a time. Men and women
of all ages and from all over the country work every
day to help others in need. Through families, community
groups, and places of worship, Americans give of
themselves to help others realize a brighter future.

Our loyalty to American democracy and freedom is born
of pride, appreciation, and understanding of our
country. We are loyal to America, our fellow citizens,
and these ideals. Loyalty Day provides an opportunity
to recognize those who demonstrate their commitment to
our country through service and sacrifice. These
individuals serve as a model for all Americans.

The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, as amended, has
designated May 1 of each year as ``Loyalty Day.'' On
this special occasion, I encourage all Americans to
join me in reaffirming our allegiance to our blessed
Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2002, as Loyalty Day.
I call upon all Americans to take part in celebrating
this national observance.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B