BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
More than seven decades ago, on a calm Sunday morning, our
Nation was attacked without warning or provocation. The bombs
that fell on the island of Oahu took almost 2,400 American
lives, damaged our Pacific Fleet, challenged our resilience, and
tested our resolve. On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we
honor the men and women who selflessly sacrificed for our
country, and we show our enduring gratitude to all who fought to
defend freedom against the forces of tyranny and oppression in
the Second World War.
In remembrance of Pearl Harbor and to defend our Nation against
future attacks, scores of young Americans enlisted in the United
States military. In battle after battle, our troops fought with
courage and honor. They took the Pacific theater island by
island, and eventually swept through Europe, liberating nations
as they progressed. Because of their extraordinary valor,
America emerged from this test as we always do -- stronger than
ever before.
We also celebrate those who served and sacrificed on the home
front -- from families who grew Victory Gardens or donated to
the war effort to women who joined the assembly line alongside
workers of every background and realized their own power to
build a brighter world. Together, our Greatest Generation
overcame the Great Depression, and built the largest middle
class and strongest economy in history.
Today, with solemn pride and reverence, let us remember those
who fought and died at Pearl Harbor, acknowledge everyone who
carried their legacy forward, and reaffirm our commitment to
upholding the ideals for which they served.
The Congress, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated
December 7 of each year as "National Pearl Harbor Remembrance
Day."
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States
of America, do hereby proclaim December 7, 2013, as National
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. I encourage all Americans to
observe this solemn day of remembrance and to honor our
military, past and present, with appropriate ceremonies and
activities. I urge all Federal agencies and interested
organizations, groups, and individuals to fly the flag of the
United States at half-staff this December 7 in honor of those
American patriots who died as a result of their service at Pearl
Harbor.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day
of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and
of the Independence of the United States of America the two
hundred and thirty-eighth.
BARACK OBAMA |