During my address to the Bundestag in Bonn in June of last year, I spoke of the importance which the United States attaches to the Tricentennial year of 1983 commemorating German settlement in America. Despite the legacy of two world wars which found us on opposing sides, West Germany and the United States have forged an exceptionally close relationship during the past three decades. The success of the Marshall Plan, the Berlin Airlift, and the ensuing NATO partnership have led to a recognition of our common democratic ideals and joint interest in Western economic and political strength.
Throughout 1983 there will be numerous activities and observances to celebrate the Tricentennial. President Karl Carstens has accepted my invitation to attend the culminating event in Philadelphia next October.
The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 260, has designated 1983 as the "Tricentennial Anniversary Year of German Settlement in America" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a Proclamation in observance of that year. By the same Resolution, the Congress established the Presidential Commission for the German-American Tricentennial to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of this historic event.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the year commencing on January 1, 1983, as the Tricentennial Anniversary Year of German Settlement in America, and urge all Americans to observe the year with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 20th day of Jan., in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and seventh.
RONALD REAGAN
Proclamation 5015 of January 20, 1983
Red Cross Month, 1983
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
American Red Cross volunteers are among the millions of citizens who quietly serve their fellow man. Since the first settlement on our shores, a volunteer spirit has characterized the American way. This spirit has been reflected in the actions of the neighbor who is always ready to lend a hand.
The services performed by the Red Cross provide us with benefits that would otherwise cost billions of dollars. Last year, it was the volunteer who—giving freely of his or her time, energy, and talent—made it possible for the Red Cross to collect and provide the ill and injured with nearly six million units of blood. Volunteers established shelters to feed and attend to disaster victims, conducted thousands of courses to improve the quality of life by teaching nutrition, first aid, water safety, home nursing, and prepara-
6
