PROCLAMATION 7344—SEPT. 22, 2000 114 STAT. 3369 Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fifth. WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 7344 of September 22, 2000 Gold Star Mother's Day, 2000 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation America's Armed Forces have stood watch over our freedom for more than two centmies. They have held posts on lonely ridges, spent long days and nights at sea, and faced danger in the skies. They have sacrificed their youth, their time, and even their lives to sustain the foundation on which our country was built and to protect the democratic values that keep our country strong and free. The mothers of these courageous men and women have also bravely stood watch—in homes once filled with the laughter of children—^and waited for word from their loved ones. When the guns of battle fell silent, many mothers' homes were once again filled with the boisterous commotion of their children returning from distant lands. But the homes of Gold Star Mothers remained silent. Their children had made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation, and Gold Star Mothers were left with the profound sorrow of thefr heartbreaking loss. But America's Gold Star Mothers rose above their personal tragedy, and today they continue to stand watch over our Nation. Reaching out to improve the lives of others and to ensure that the noble contributions of thefr sons and daughters are not forgotten, they are powerful examples of service and sacrifice for us all. With dignity, coiu^ge, and compassion, they have worked to promote patriotism, foster peace and goodwill, and extend a helping hand to veterans and those in need. Their generosity of spirit has touched the lives of countless Americans and made certain that the selflessness thefr children demonstrated in service to our country remains a prominent part of our national character. For thefr steadfast devotion to duty and their imwavering commitment to carrying on the proud legacy of thefr children, we honor these Gold Star Mothers each year. The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat. 1895), has designated the last Sunday in September as "Gold Star Mother's Day" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this day. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Simday, September 24, 2000, as Gold Star Mother's Day. I call upon all govermnent officials to display the United States flag over government buildings on this solemn day. I also encourage the American people to display the flag and to hold appropriate meetings in thefr homes, places of worship, or other smtable places as a public expression of the S5rmpathy and respect that om- Nation holds for our Gold Star Mothers.
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