115 STAT. 2618 PROCLAMATION 7422—APR. 4, 2001 On this date, we remember the sacrifices of those imprisoned while serving America. We remain committed to ensuring that future generations know of their heroism in order to fully appreciate their courage and resolve. Although they returned home safely, their physical and emotional scars remain as a reminder of the high price of liberty. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. 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 April 9, 2001, as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. I call upon all the people of the United States to join me in remembering former American prisoners of war who suffered the hardships of enemy captivity. I also call upon Federal, State, and local government officials and private organizations to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fifth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7422 of April 4, 2001 National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week, 2001 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Organ and tissue transplantation is one of the most significant advances in medicine. Wonderful success stories give hope to people of all ages, and donors and their families deserve our deepest gratitude. Their extraordinary generosity and foresight have given countless individuals the opportunity to rear a family, hold a job, and pursue fuller and more active lives. Unfortunately, many people are not able to reap the benefits of remarkable transplant technology. More than 75,000 Americans are on the national organ transplant waiting list, and every 13 minutes, another person will be added to the waiting list. Sadly, each day, 15 of those on the waiting list will die because the need for organs far exceeds the number donated. The Department of Health and Human Services and health professionals across the country are dedicated to improving these statistics. By becoming organ donors, Americans can join in this important mission to help those suffering from a life- threatening illness caused by the failure of a vital organ. Persons can participate by simply completing and carrying a donor card and informing family and Mends of iheir wish to donate. Such decisions will make a significant difference in the number of available organs for donation. Many Americans have set a powerful example in this regard, agreeing to become an organ donor and taking a selfless action that may potentially save lives. I encourage other Americans to consider organ dona-
�
