National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, 2002
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Early on a quiet Sunday morning on December 7, 1941, aircraft of
the Empire of Japan, without provocation or warning, attacked the
United States forces at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. More than 2,400
Americans died that day and another 1,100 were wounded, in what was the
start of a long and terrible war against the forces of fascism,
tyranny, and imperialism.

Out of that surprise attack grew a steadfast resolve to defend the
freedoms on which our Nation was founded. From the ruins of Pearl
Harbor, America built the strongest Navy in the world and emerged as a
superpower to lead a coalition of allies to victory over evil in World
War II. Our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines fought and won many
crucial battles, defeating history's most powerful tyranny. Our Nation
must always remember the heroism, dedication, and sacrifice of those
who served. Their courage in battle continues to inspire us today as
our Armed Forces fight against terrorism in Afghanistan and around the
world.

The men and women who fought for America at Pearl Harbor not only
protected our Nation, but also helped to shape its character. Nine
Americans who fell had Navy ships named after them, and 15 men earned
the Medal of Honor for bravery, with 10 of them awarded the Medal
posthumously. As we remember the lost on what President Franklin
Delano Roosevelt called "a date which will live in infamy," I encourage
our veterans to share their experiences with our youth so that new
generations can learn about this important moment in our history.

Today, we salute our veterans of Pearl Harbor and World War II,
whose sacrifices saved democracy during a dark hour. In their memory,
a new generation of our Armed Forces goes forward against new enemies
in a new era. Once again, we pledge to defend freedom, secure our
homeland, and advance peace around the world. Americans have been
tested before, and our Nation will triumph again.

The Congress, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated
December 7, 2002, as "National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, do hereby proclaim December 7, 2002, as National Pearl
Harbor Remembrance Day. I encourage all Americans to observe this
solemn occasion with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I urge all
Federal agencies,

interested organizations, groups, and individuals to fly the flag
of the United States at half-staff this and every December 7 in honor
of those who died as a result of their service at Pearl Harbor.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth
day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.