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 Proclamations Proc. 7624 and dramatic moments in our history, they can help educate and inspire a new generation of Americans. On the observance of Veterans Day in 1954, President Dwight D. Eisen- hower called on all citizens to not only remember "the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly..." but also to rededirate themselves "to the task of promoting an enduring peace...." Today, almost 50 years later, we remember the dedication of our veterans, and resolve ourselves to uphold- ing their legacy of iustice, liberty, and opportunity for all. In recognition of the contributions our service men and women have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has pro- vided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November \177 of each year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor veterans. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November ll, 2002, as Veterans Day and urge all Americans to observe November l0 through November \1776, 2002, as National Veterans Awareness Week. I urge all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through appropriate public cere- monies and private prayers. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to encourage and participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal orga- nizations, places of worship, schools, businesses, unions, and the media to support this national observance with suitable commemorative expressions and programs. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of No- vember, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independ- ence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7624 of November 8, 2002 National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week, 2002 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation Our National Guard and Reserve units comprise 38 percent of America's military forces, and we are grateful for the commitment of these brave men and women. During National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week, we pay tribute to those serving our Nation in the National Guard and Reserve, and to the civilian employers whose continued support en- ables our Reserve component soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coast guardsmen to defend our country with honor and distinction. Through their service, National Guard and Reserve personnel play an im- portant role in our efforts to advance democracy, peace, and freedom across our Nation and around the world. These dedicated men and women train vigorously and work closely with our active-duty forces, serving as equal partners in our integrated Armed Forces. As our need for their efforts ex- 175

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