Patriot Day, 2004

Proclamation 7812 of September 10, 2004

Patriot Day, 2004

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Three years ago, our country was ruthlessly attacked,
and more than 3,000 innocent people lost their lives.
We will always remember the victims: sons and
daughters, husbands and wives, dads and moms, family
members, co-workers, and friends. And we will always be
inspired by the heroism and decency of our fellow
citizens on that day. Police, firefighters, emergency
rescue personnel, doctors, nurses, and many others
risked their own lives to save the lives of their
fellow citizens. They demonstrated the great character
and bravery of our Nation, and they embody the great
spirit of America.

Since September 11th, America has fought a relentless
war on terror around the world. We are staying on the
offensive in this war--striking the terrorists abroad
so we do not have to face them here at home. We pray
that God watch over our brave men and women in uniform
and all who are waging this war and working to keep
America safe. And we pray for their families. In the
face of danger, America is showing its character. Three
years after the attack on our country, Americans remain
strong and resolute, patient in a just cause, and
confident of the victory to come.

By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001
(Public Law 107-89), the Congress has designated
September 11 of each year as ``Patriot Day.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim September
11, 2004, as Patriot Day. I call upon the Governors of
the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico,
as well as appropriate officials of all units of
government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-
staff on Patriot Day. I call upon the people of the
United States to observe Patriot Day with appropriate
ceremonies and activities, including remembrance
services, to display the flag at half-staff from their
homes on that day, and to observe a moment of silence
beginning at 8:46 a.m. eastern daylight time to honor
the innocent victims who lost their lives as a result
of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B