Remembering September 11
by the President of the United States of America,
09/09/02
Proclamation
On this first observance of Patriot Day, we remember and honor those who perished in the
terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. We will not forget the events of
that terrible morning nor will we forget how Americans responded in New
York City, at the Pentagon, and in the skies over Pennsylvania with
heroism and selflessness; with compassion and courage; and with prayer and
hope. We will always remember our collective obligation to ensure that
justice is done, that freedom prevails, and that the principles upon which
our Nation was founded endure.
Inspired by the heroic sacrifices of our firefighters, rescue and law enforcement
personnel, military service members, and other citizens, our Nation found
unity, focus, and strength. We found healing in the national outpouring of
compassion for those lost, as tens of millions of Americans participated
in moments of silence, candlelight vigils, and religious services. From
the tragedy of September 11 emerged a stronger Nation, renewed by a spirit
of national pride and a true love of country.
We are a people dedicated to the triumph of freedom and democracy over evil and tyranny.
The heroic stories of the first responders who gave their all to save
others strengthened our resolve. And our Armed Forces have pursued the
war against terrorism in Afghanistan and elsewhere with valor and skill.
Together with our coalition partners, they have achieved success.
Americans also have fought back against terror by choosing to overcome evil with good. By
loving their neighbors as they would like to be loved, countless citizens
have answered the call to help others. They have contributed to relief
efforts, improved homeland security in their communities, and volunteered
their time to aid those in need. This spirit of service continues to grow
as thousands have joined the newly established USA Freedom Corps,
committing themselves to changing America one heart at a time through the
momentum of millions of acts of decency and kindness.
Those whom we lost last September 11 will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts and in
the history of our Nation. As we mark the first anniversary of that
tragic day, we remember their sacrifice; and we commit ourselves to
honoring their memory by pursuing peace and justice in the world and
security at home. By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001
(Public Law 107-89), the Congress has authorized and requested the
President to designate 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, 2002, as Patriot Day. I call upon the people of
the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and
activities, including remembrance services and candlelight vigils. I also
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. Further, I
encourage all Americans 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, or another appropriate commemorative 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 fourth day of September, in the year of our
Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of the United States of
America the two hundred and twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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