Columbus Day, 2004

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Part IV

The President

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Proclamation 7829--Columbus Day, 2004

Proclamation 7830--General Pulaski Memorial Day, 2004

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 7829 of October 11, 2004

Columbus Day, 2004

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

The journeys of Christopher Columbus are among the
world's greatest stories of daring and discovery. His
courage, optimism, and adventurous spirit altered the
course of history. On Columbus Day, we celebrate this
remarkable explorer and his contributions to the ``New
World.''

In August 1492, Columbus left Spain and sailed into the
unknown with the simplest of navigational equipment.
The risks were great and the outcome uncertain. Yet,
Columbus was committed to the cause of discovery,
finding a more efficient trade route to the East and
advancing European civilization.

Today, Columbus' voyages continue to stir our
imagination and encourage us to explore new frontiers.
His spirit of determination and discovery is a
characteristic shared by the American people and is
reflected throughout our history, from the Lewis and
Clark Expedition to the Moon landing and our many
scientific and technological advances.

Columbus Day is also a celebration of the many
contributions that Italian Americans have made to our
Nation. Every aspect of our culture, whether it be art
or music, law or politics, reflects the influence of
Italian Americans. On this day we also remain thankful
for the strong ties between the United States and Italy
and pay tribute to the courageous and selfless Italian
forces who are helping to advance freedom alongside
American and coalition troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In commemoration of Columbus' journey, the Congress, by
joint resolution of April 30, 1934, and modified in
1968 (36 U.S.C. 107), as amended, has requested that
the President proclaim the second Monday of October of
each year as ``Columbus Day.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim October
11, 2004, as Columbus Day. I call upon the people of
the United States to observe this day with appropriate
ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag
of the United States be displayed on all public
buildings on the appointed day in honor of Christopher
Columbus.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eleventh day of October, 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