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Rh Proclamations Proc. 4894 believe we are now beginning to see a subtle but definite population increase through the cooperative efforts of Federal and State fish and wildlife agencies, conservation and industrial groups, scientists, and private citizens. These efforts are truly indicative of the spirit of cooperation and perseverance which is at the very heart of our national character.

On June 20, 1782, the bald eagle became our Nation's symbol and national bird. As we approach the bicentennial anniversary of that event, we have an excellent opportunity to pause and reflect upon the importance of the bald eagle, indeed of all our fish and wildlife resources, to a healthy America. On this occasion, let us renew our commitment and dedication to the conservation of our natural heritage as symbolized by the bald eagle.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States of America, in accordance with a joint resolution of the Congress S.J. Res. 121), do hereby proclaim June 20, 1982 as "National Bald Eagle Day" and designate the year 1982 as the "Bicentennial Year of the American Bald Eagle." I call upon the people of the United States to join in these observances with appropriate activities in their homes and communities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 28th day of January in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-two, of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and sixth. RONALD REAGAN

Proclamation 4894 of February 3, 1982

American Heart Month, 1982

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Diseases of the heart and circulatory system remain our nation's most serious health problem. These diseases affect at least 40 million Americans, many of whom have been seriously and often permanently disabled. Heart disease causes one million deaths each year and costs the nation more than $60 billion a year in lost wages, productivity, and medical expenses.

However, progress has been made in recent years to substantially reduce illness, disability, and death from heart disease. For most heart and blood vessel diseases, death rates have been declining slowly but steadily since 1950. Over the past decade, death rates have declined in all cardiovascular-disease categories and at a pace double that of the death rate for all other causes.

In human terms, we know that 300,000 Americans who would have died from cardiovascular disease during 1981 are still alive today. This development has been a major contributing factor to the three-year increase in the life expectancy of Americans in the past decade.

We have learned much about averting the onset of cardiovascular disease. Americans are increasingly aware of the crucial role lifestyles play in affecting their risk of these diseases. By recognizing the importance of proper nutrition, reduced smoking, exercise, and prevention of high blood pressure, 5