110 STAT. 4538 PROCLAMATION 6901—MAY 24, 1996 The Maritime Security Program legislation currently before the Congress will preserve a strong sealift capability so that critical military cargoes can reach American troops and our allies abroad as they strive to fulfill their peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. It will protect American jobs and foster our efforts to expand international trade. In standing behind this important measure, we affirm our commitment to maintaining a strong U.S.- f lag presence on the high seas for our continued national security and economic growth. In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as "National Maritime Day" and has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 1996, as National Maritime Day. I urge all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs and by displaying the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twentieth. WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 6901 of May 24, 1996 Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day, 1996 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation On the last Monday of May each year, our Nation takes time to remember those who have given their lives to safeguard America's freedom. Courageous and loyal citizens have died on battlefields around the world in defense of the United States, our interests, and our values, thus ensuring more than two centuries of independence and a society based on individual rights. Their selflessness demands our profound gratitude and calls us to consider anew the awesome price of liberty. On this special day, let us reflect upon the supreme sacrifice made by our fellow citizens lost in battle. All were proud members of our national community, and all perished while protecting our country's honor and the American way of life. Let us share in the grief of the families whose loved ones remain unaccounted for or fell while defending this great Nation. And let us pray, each in our own way, for peace throughout this land and across the globe. As beneficiaries of the freedoms our troops secured, we can best pay tribute to their deeds by leaving to future generations an America that continues to be a beacon of justice and freedom for people everywhere. In respect and recognition of the courageous men and women to whom we pay tribute, the Congress, by joint resolution approved on May 11,
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