Patriot Day, 2007

Proclamation 8174 of September 4, 2007

Patriot Day, 2007

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

September 11, 2001, was a defining moment in American
history. On that terrible day, our Nation saw the face
of evil as 19 men barbarously attacked us and wantonly
murdered people of many races, nationalities, and
creeds. On Patriot Day, we remember the innocent
victims, and we pay tribute to the valiant
firefighters, police officers, emergency personnel, and
ordinary citizens who risked their lives so others
might live.

After the attacks on 9/11, America resolved that we
would go on the offense against our enemies, and we
would not distinguish between the terrorists and those
who harbor and support them. All Americans honor the
selfless men and women of our Armed Forces, the
dedicated members of our public safety, law
enforcement, and intelligence communities, and the
thousands of others who work hard each day to protect
our country, secure our liberty, and prevent future
attacks.

The spirit of our people is the source of America's
strength, and 6 years ago, Americans came to the aid of
neighbors in need. On Patriot Day, we pray for those
who died and for their families. We volunteer to help
others and demonstrate the continuing compassion of our
citizens. On this solemn occasion, we rededicate
ourselves to laying the foundation of peace with
confidence in our mission and our free way of life.

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, 2007, 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 also call upon the people of
the United States to observe Patriot Day with
appropriate ceremonies, activities, and 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 Americans and people from around the world
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
fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two
thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.