Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 117.djvu/3062

 PROCLAMATION 7677—MAY 9, 2003

117 STAT. 3043

proved May 14, 1962, as amended (36 U.S.C. 133), declared that the week during which that Friday falls be designated as ‘‘National Transportation Week.’’ NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Friday, May 16, 2003, as National Defense Transportation Day and May 11 through May 17, 2003, as National Transportation Week. I encourage all Americans to learn more about how our modern transportation system enhances our economy and contributes to our freedom. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh. GEORGE W. BUSH

Proclamation 7677 of May 9, 2003

National Safe Boating Week, 2003 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation As summer approaches, Americans are looking forward to enjoying our Nation’s rivers, lakes, and oceans. National statistics show that recreational boating is safer today than ever before, with the number of boating fatalities declining even as the number of boats increases. However, lives continue to be lost needlessly, and we must remain committed to boating safety. During National Safe Boating Week, we are reminded that practicing simple steps can make recreational boating safer and more enjoyable. This year’s theme, ‘‘Boat Smart. Boat Safe. Wear It!’’ highlights the importance and ease of wearing life jackets. Drowning remains the number one cause of recreational boating fatalities. According to the United States Coast Guard, nearly 80 percent of those who died in boating accidents in 2001 were not wearing life jackets. In many of these cases, life jackets were available on board, but were useless to the passengers in the boats because the speed and suddenness of the accident prevented them from having time to put on their life jackets. The chances of surviving a serious boating accident increase dramatically by wearing a life jacket. Modern life jackets are smaller, lighter, and more flexible, making them easier and more comfortable to wear. The National Safe Boating Council, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and the U.S. Coast Guard are working with other campaign partners to encourage safe boating practices through the 2003 North American Safe Boating Campaign. In addition to wearing life jackets, the campaign encourages boaters to enroll in a boating safety class, to ensure that boats are properly maintained and checked for safety, to follow regulations and guidelines relating to homeland security issues, and not to consume alcohol when operating a boat. More information about staying safe on the water is available by visiting the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Boating Safety website at

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