‘Turning to Almighty God’: 5 profound Memorial Day proclamations
2002
President George W. Bush issued a Memorial Day proclamation several months after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The federal holiday was observed on Monday, May 27, 2002.
“As we engage in the war against terrorism, we also pray for peace,” stated Bush. “Lincoln called on all Americans to ‘cherish a just and lasting peace.’ In these extraordinary times, our Nation has once again been challenged, and Lincoln's words remain our guiding prayer.”
In addition to calling for the 11 a.m. hour in each locality as "a time to unite in prayer,” Bush also called for “all Americans to observe the National Moment of Remembrance beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.”
“As we commemorate this noble American holiday, we honor those who fell in defense of freedom," he said. "We honor them in our memory through solemn observances, with the love of a grateful Nation."
