Proclamation 6109.
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104 STAT. 5233 Proclamation 6109 of March 20, 1990 Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy, 1990 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation On March 25, 169 years ago, Greece won its independence as a modem state. Each year, the United States is proud to join with our ally in commemoration of this historic date. In so doing, we also celebrate the commitment to freedom and democratic government we share today. While American friends of Greece supported its struggle for independence, and while generations of Greek immigrants have helped to strengthen and enrich the relationship between our two countries, our mutual devotion to democratic ideals is rooted far deeper in history.
Some 2,500 years ago, Ancient Greek city-states helped to plant the seeds of democratic thought among men. Indeed, the experience of the Greek *poleis* and the ideas of their great philosophers were a rich source of insight and inspiration for our Nation’s Founders as they shaped a system of government for the United States. Thomas Jefferson expressed his gratitude for the illumination provided by the Ancient Greeks when he praised “the splendid constellation of sages and heroes . . . whose merits are still resting, as a heavy debt, on the shoulders of the living and the future races of men.
” Recent events around the world have clearly demonstrated the timeless appeal of democratic ideals. Today we take pride in knowing that the resolve and unity of purpose shown by the United States, Greece, and other members of the NATO Alliance have inspired those struggling for the right to freedom and self-government. The triumphant flowering of democratic principles around the world is a tribute to the strength of our Alliance and to the determination and foresight of our ancestors.
As we join with the people of Greece in celebrating their National Day, we recall the sense of fellowship and gratitude conveyed by Thomas Jefferson when he wrote to the Greek patriot and educator, Adamantios Koraes: “Possessing ourselves the combined blessings of liberty and order, we wish the same to other countries, and to none more than yours, which, the first of civilized nations, presented examples of what man should be.” Recognizing the 169th Anniversary of Greek Independence and reaffirming the democratic values we share, the Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 243, has designated March 25, 1990, as “Greek Independence Day:
A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy” and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this event. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim March 25, 1990, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy. I urge all Americans to join in appropriate ceremonies and activities to salute the Greek people and Greek Independence.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety, and 104 STAT. 5234of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fourteenth. GEORGE BUSH **Editorial note**: For the President’s remarks of Mar. 20, 1990. on signing Proclamation 6109. see the *Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents* (vol. 26, p. 446). 6110 National Agriculture Day, 1990 Digitization Vendor By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 6110 of March 20, 1990 National Agriculture Day, 1990 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation When our ancestors came to America more than 3 centuries ago, they discovered a land of unparalleled beauty and plenty.
Cultivating this rich, fertile soil, they built new lives for themselves—and set down the first roots of a free, strong, and prosperous nation. The abundance of agricultural goods we enjoy has been vital to our well-being both as individuals and as a people. Free from the dire hunger that has tragically limited the development of some countries, we have been blessed with the ability to produce a wealth of other goods and services. This productivity and prosperity would not be possible without the contributions of our farmers.
The American farmer is the most enterprising, capable, and efficient in the world. Nowhere else does such a small percentage of a nation’s population feed so many and so well. Farmers not only provide us with food and fiber, but also play a leading role in protecting our environment. Through the use of innovative soil and water conservation techniques, for example, they are helping to safeguard America’s land, lakes, and rivers for future generations. With the aid of authorities in biotechnology, farmers are also helping to develop alternative uses for farm products, such as ethanol and other new fuels and fuel additives.
The success of American agriculture is enjoyed by millions of people around the country and around the globe. Today farmers, ranchers, scientists, merchants, and government officials are working together to produce food and fiber for this Nation and for much of the rest of the world as well. As they have done for generations, American farmers have prevailed against adversity, meeting every new and familiar challenge with the faith, fortitude, and ingenuity that have always been their hallmark.
Last year, net farm income reached a record level. The value of U.S. agricultural exports has increased for a third consecutive year. Because we are committed to ensuring that this trend continues, we are determined to promote the market-oriented farm policies that give producers greater flexibility. We also remain committed to promoting the industry and commerce that enable our farmers to reach and to compete effectively in markets at home and abroad. Agriculture is one of the pillars upon which our strength and prosperity as a Nation rest.
This is worth remembering each day, and especially 104 STAT. 5235on National Agriculture Day. Today, we give thanks not only for the bountiful harvests that bring our daily bread, but also for the courageous and industrious men and women who reap them. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE 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 March 20, 1990, as National Agriculture Day.
I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fourteenth. GEORGE BUSH **Editorial note**: For the President’s remarks of Mar. 20, 1990. on signing Proclamation 6110. see the *Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents* (vol. 26. p. 448). 6111 United States Naval Reserve Month, 1990 Digitization Vendor By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 6111 of March 30, 1990 United States Naval Reserve Month, 1990 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation On March 3, 1915, the Congress enacted legislation establishing the Federal Navy Reserve.
That act has enabled the United States to remain at a high level of military preparedness in times of peace, as well as in times of crisis. Hundreds of thousands of Americans have served this Nation proudly and ably as Naval Reservists. More than 600,000 Naval Reservists rallied to action during World War I. During the Second World War, when the United States was embroiled in a life-and-death struggle to defend freedom and democracy from the brutal forces of totalitarianism, 80 percent of our Naval personnel were reservists.
Whenever the lives of innocent people have been threatened, whenever any of our other national interests have been at stake, our reservists have demonstrated clearly their value as part of America’s fighting forces. During the Berlin Crisis, the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, the Mayaguez incident, and in Grenada, the Persian Gulf, and Panama, Naval Reservists consistently played vital roles in advancing our national objectives. Yet they have also provided invaluable assistance to their country during nonmilitary emergencies.
For example, in the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo and the devastating 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake that struck the San Francisco Bay area, hardworking Naval Reservists were on the front lines of relief efforts. The men and women of the Naval Reserve boast a long tradition of courageous and dedicated service to their fellowman. As we enter a new decade and a new century, their operational readiness will continue to be critical to our Nation’s security and well-being. That is why, as we salute all Naval Reservists, we also pay tribute to their families104 STAT. 5236and employers—their generous support and encouragement help our reservists to fulfill the dual role of citizen-sailor.
In honor of the thousands of Americans who have served this country as U.S. Naval Reservists, and in grateful recognition of those reservists who have given their lives in the line of duty, the Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 266, has designated March 1990 as “United States Naval Reserve Month” and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this occasion. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim March 1990, the 75th anniversary of the Naval Reserve, as United States Naval Reserve Month.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fourteenth. GEORGE BUSH 6112 National Safe Boating Week, 1990 Digitization Vendor By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 6112 of April 5, 1990 National Safe Boating Week, 1990 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation We Americans have been blessed with some of the most beautiful and accessible lakes, rivers, and coastal waters in the world.
It is our good fortune to have the freedom and ability to use these areas for our personal recreation and enjoyment. Every year, increasing numbers of Americans purchase or rent boats and utilize our marine resources. The growing popularity of boating and related water sports is placing a great demand on the Coast Guard and other government agencies and voluntary organizations that strive to ensure the safety of the boating public. Thus, during National Safe Boating Week, in a concerted effort to save lives and protect our marine environment, dedicated men and women across the country work to give their fellow Americans the knowledge and skills they need to become safer and more responsible boaters.
Offering wise counsel under the theme, “Know Before You Go,” qualified volunteers and professionals are encouraging boaters to learn more about their craft and how to operate them safely. A pilot must have thorough knowledge of his or her vessel and the rules and courtesies of navigation. Every boater should know how to identify and operate safety equipment, and every pilot should carefully inspect and maintain such equipment. For example, life jackets should be routinely checked, tested, and properly fitted.
All boaters should know the marine environment in which they will be operating, as well as the prevailing and forecasted weather conditions in the area. They must also know and accept their personal limitations, as well as their responsibility to obey the law and protect the safety of passengers and other boaters. 104 STAT. 5237 Tragically, many boating accidents are the result of operator error— error that is too often caused by fatigue, recklessness, or intoxication from alcohol or drugs.
Far too many of these accidents claim the lives of innocent people. Far too many cause serious injuries, and they destroy priceless marine resources. Every American who participates in boating and related sports such as fishing, hunting, and waterskiing should not only take the time to learn about safe boating procedures, but also practice them faithfully. Making an effort to “Know Before You Go” and remaining alert at all times on the water are two of the best ways to ensure a safe and rewarding boating experience.
In recognition of the need for boating safety, the Congress, by joint resolution approved June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 161), as amended, has authorized and requested the President to proclaim annually the week commencing on the first Sunday in June as “National Safe Boating Week.” NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the week beginning June 3, 1990, as National Safe Boating Week. I invite the Governors of the States, Puerto Rico, and officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to provide for the observance of this week.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of April, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fourteenth. GEORGE BUSH 6113 National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day, 1990 Digitization Vendor By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 6113 of April 6, 1990 National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day, 1990 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Our freedom and security have been won for us at a very high price—a price borne bravely in times of conflict and peril by members of the United States Armed Forces.
Those Americans who have suffered as prisoners of war know all too well the costs of battle. Few of us could have a more profound understanding of the value of liberty than these who once experienced the terrible reality of life without it. Every member of the United States Armed Forces is prepared to uphold and defend our Nation’s Constitution and the principles it enshrines. Every member of the United States Armed Forces knows and accepts his or her duties and the high standards expected of our military personnel.
No training course or series of instructions, however, could ever prepare prisoners of war for the privation and suffering to which they were often exposed. In violation of fundamental standards of morality and international codes and customs regarding the treatment of captured military personnel, many American prisoners of war were subjected to starvation, disease, and physical and psychological torture. Thousands died in captivity. Thousands were permanently disabled by 104 STAT. 5238illness or by injuries inflicted upon them.
All of them endured the immeasurable pain of separation from loved ones. Nevertheless, our prisoners of war held firm in their belief in the promise of America and the freedom and justice to which this Nation is dedicated. They struggled to stay alive and to return home, and, by the grace of God, many of them did. Today, we honor our former prisoners of war and give thanks for the peace and liberty they so valiantly defended. Each of them has shown us that faith and courage are freedom’s invincible shield and sword.
We must never forget the sacrifices they made for us, nor must we allow our children to forget the lasting debt we owe to each of them. Therefore, we should also renew our commitment to securing the release of any U.S. serviceman who may still be held against his will. As a measure of our admiration and gratitude for all former prisoners of war, the Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 190, has designated April 9, 1990, as “National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day” and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this occasion.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim April 9, 1990, as National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day. I call upon government officials, private organizations, and individual Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities to honor former prisoners of war and to renew our Nation’s appreciation for the rights and freedom they defended. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of April, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fourteenth.
GEORGE BUSH 6114 Pan American Day and Pan American Week, 1990 Digitization Vendor By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Proclamation 6114 of April 6, 1990 Pan American Day and Pan American Week, 1990 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation This is a momentous time in the history of the Americas, and it is a promising time in inter-American relations. Throughout the Western Hemisphere, the ideals of freedom and representative democracy have triumphed, while tyranny has been in full retreat.
Democracy, the exception just one decade ago, is today the rule. A majority of the nations in this hemisphere have freely elected governments, and prospects for democracy, peace, and economic development throughout the Americas appear bright. Much of this progress has been made possible by the work of the Organization of American States and its predecessors, the Pan American Union and the International Union of American Republics, formed in 1890. Each year, Pan American Day and Pan American Week provide 104 STAT. 5239an occasion to reaffirm the beliefs and aspirations that inspired the founding of these organizations.
The people of the Americas are united by much more than geographic proximity. From the earliest days of the inter-American system, we have been drawn together by certain ideals. Those ideals are rooted in respect for human rights, and they are clearly expressed in the Charter of the Organization of American States, which declares that the “historic mission of America is to offer to man a land of liberty.” The creation of the inter-American system a century ago signalled our commitment to promoting freedom, opportunity, and political and economic stability throughout the Americas.
The OAS Charter also states that “the true significance of American solidarity and good neighborliness can only mean the consolidation on this continent ... of a system of individual liberty and social justice based on respect for the essential rights of man.” After 100 years of partnership, we know that the proudest days of the inter-American community have been those when it has faithfully upheld these ideals and set a universal standard for the protection of liberty and democracy.
The United States is therefore determined to help ensure that the inter-American system remains a formidable opponent of totalitarianism and an effective advocate of representative government in the region. We also recognize the vital role it can and must play in eliminating illicit drug-trafficking, which has posed a threat to the freedom and safety of millions of men and women. Today, poised at the threshold of the 21st century, the nations of the New World face a world of new challenges and opportunities.
As we prepare to meet them, we do well to remember that there is no better legacy we can bequeath to future generations than a hemisphere of free and democratic nations, stretching from Alaska to Antarctica, prosperous and at peace. Through the cooperation of all those governments that are members of the inter-American system, may we continue to move forward in our efforts to realize this noble goal. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE 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 Saturday, April 14, 1990, as Pan American Day and the week of April 8 through April 14, 1990, as Pan American Week.
I urge the Governors of the fifty States, the Governor of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and officials of other areas under the flag of the United States of America to honor these observances with appropriate ceremonies and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of April, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fourteenth. GEORGE BUSH 6115 Cancer Control Month, 1990 Digitization Vendor By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation
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Proclamation 6109
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