Older Americans Month, 2005

Proclamation 7895 of May 3, 2005

Older Americans Month, 2005

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Older Americans teach us the timeless lessons of
courage, sacrifice, and love. By sharing their wisdom
and experience, they serve as role models for future
generations. During Older Americans Month, we pay
tribute to our senior citizens and their contributions
to our Nation.

Our seniors deserve our greatest respect. Their example
shows us how to persevere in the face of hardship, care
for others in need, and take pride in our communities.
Their patriotism, service, and leadership inspire
Americans and shape the character and future of our
country.

Millions of Americans are now living longer, more
productive lives, and many are choosing to stay active
in the workforce. Senior citizens are also giving their
time and talents by volun teering in many ways--from
mentoring youth and participating in environmental
stewardship projects to serving the homeless and
assisting in emergency preparedness. More than 500,000
senior citizens volunteer through Senior Corps, a
network of programs that enables older Americans to
meet the needs and challenges of their communities.
Through the USA Freedom Corps and Senior Corps, older
Americans are dedicating their time and energy to
strengthening our Nation and serving a cause greater
than themselves.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Older
Americans Act of 1965, which was created to improve the
welfare of our seniors. By treating older Americans
with the dignity and respect they deserve, we honor
their legacy and contributions to our Nation. Their
guidance and love enrich our country and make America a
better place for all.

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 2005 as Older Americans
Month. I commend our senior citizens for their many
contributions to our society. I also commend the
network of Federal, State, local, and tribal
organizations, service and health care providers,
caregivers, and dedicated volunteers who work on behalf
of our senior citizens. I encourage all Americans to
honor their elders, to care for those in need, and to
publicly reaffirm our Nation's commitment to older
Americans this month and throughout the year.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B