Loyalty Day, 2006

Proclamation 8011 of April 28, 2006

Loyalty Day, 2006

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Our Nation is blessed and bound together by a creed of
freedom and equality that is entrusted to all
Americans. Preserving the ideals of our founding
requires the service and sacrifice of every generation,
and on Loyalty Day, we celebrate the gift of liberty
and remember our own obligation to this great Nation.

The dedication and selflessness of America's soldiers
and their families inspire us all. Some of our Nation's
finest men and women have given their lives in
freedom's cause. By their sacrifices they have given us
a legacy of liberty and brought honor to the uniform,
our flag, and our country. The American people are
grateful to the brave men and women of our military for
their service and we will always stand behind them. I
encourage all Americans to learn more about
opportunities to thank and support our troops, from
sending a care package to writing a message, by
visiting www.americasupportsyou.mil.

Loyalty Day is also a time for us to reflect on our
responsibilities to our country as we work to show the
world the meaning and promise of liberty. The right to
vote is one of our most cherished rights and voting is
one of our most fundamental duties. By making a
commitment to be good citizens, flying the American
flag, or taking the time to learn about our Nation's
history, we show our gratitude for the blessings of
freedom.

The greatest strength of America is in the heart and
soul of its people, and every time a volunteer reaches
out to a neighbor in need, our Nation grows stronger
and more hopeful. Thousands of Americans are serving a
higher calling by mentoring, coaching, serving in
Senior Corps, and by participating in many other
programs that enrich lives and help build a better
tomorrow. The light of freedom shines brightly because
of compassionate people who care about others. Their
dedication to a cause greater than self gives all
Americans confidence in the future of our Nation.

The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, as amended, has
designated May 1 of each year as ``Loyalty Day.'' I ask
all Americans to join me in this day of celebration and
in reaffirming our allegiance to our Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1,
2006, as Loyalty Day. I call upon all the people of the
United States to join in support of this national
observance, and to display the flag of the United
States on Loyalty Day.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B