October 9, 2001 As a Nation, we have responded to the terrorist
attacks of September 11 by offering our support to the victims
and their families, to the rescue workers, and to the men and
women of the United States military. We have also displayed
remarkable patriotism that reflects our appreciation for and
dedication to the principles that make America strong - freedom,
liberty, and independence. Teachers in every community in
America have been working with students to help them understand
what happened on September 11 and to overcome their fears and
concerns. They have also worked to teach them more about our
proud and rich national history and the foundations of our free
society. I write today to ask you to join me and students,
teachers, parents, and other proud Americans across the country
in showing our patriotism by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance
at a single time and with a unified voice in your classrooms on
Friday, October 12, 2001. Pledge Across America is being
organized by Celebration USA, a n