BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Military spouses embody the courage, nobility of duty, and love of
country that inspire every American. On Military Spouse Day, we pay
tribute to the husbands and wives who support their spouses in America’s
Armed Forces during times of war and peace.
The legacy of military spouses began when colonial Americans were
fighting for independence. Martha Washington boosted the morale of her
husband’s troops by visiting battlefields and tending to the wounded.
Since then, members of our Armed Forces have served our Nation
accompanied by the steadfast love and support of their spouses and
families.
While our men and women in uniform are protecting our country’s
founding ideals of liberty, democracy, and justice, their spouses live
with uncommon challenges, endure sleepless nights, and spend long
periods raising children alone. Many military spouses are also
committed volunteers, serving other military families and local
communities. Our Nation benefits from the sacrifices of our military
families, and we are inspired by their courage, strength, and
leadership.
On Military Spouse Day and throughout the year, we honor the
commitment spouses have made to freedom’s cause. To learn about ways to support our troops and their spouses and families, I encourage all
Americans to visit www.americasupportsyou.mil.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 9, 2008, as
Military Spouse Day. I call upon the people of the United States to
observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities and by
expressing their gratitude to the husbands and wives of those serving in
the United States Armed Forces.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.
GEORGE W. BUSH