Proclamations Proc. 7608 When General Pulaski joined General George Washington's staff, he imme- diately made important contributions to the war effort. He led a critical counterattack at the Battle of Brandywine that avoided a potential military disaster, earning him a commission as a Brigadier General. American lead- ers valued Pulaski's experience in battle, his knowledge of military strat- egy, and his pioneering efforts that led to a recognition that he was the "Father of the American cavalry." While leading cavalry forces in the Siege of Savannah, Pulaski was wounded, and died on October 11, 1779. Two hundred and twenty-five years ago, Casimir Pulaski joined forces with Americans to establish liberty and overcome despotism. That inspiration and solidarity is mirrored today as we engage in a war against terrorism. As part of a global coalition, which includes the government and people of Poland, we are working to ensure that our two nations remain strong friends and allies in our effort to build a safer, more peaceful world for all. 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 Friday, October 11, 2002, as General Pulaski Memorial Day. I encourage all Americans to commemorate this occasion with appropriate programs and activities paying tribute to Casimir Pulaski and honoring all those who defend the freedom of our great Nation. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of Oc- tober, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7608 of October 11, 2002 National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Week, 2002 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common fatal genetic diseases in the United States. During this week, we renew our commitment to fighting this deadly disease that affects an estimated 30,000 American men, women, and children. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that can be passed on directly from par- ents to children. Millions of Americans are unknowing, symptom-free car- riers of the defective gene that can cause this disease. When both parents are carriers of the abnormal gene, their children have a i in 4 chance of being born with the disorder. Individuals who suffer from cystic fibrosis experience frequent lung infections and digestive problems caused by cell disorders in the lining of the lungs, small intestines, sweat glands, and pan- creas. Though there is as yet no known cure for cystic fibrosis, scientists and re- searchers have made great progress in understanding and treating this dis- ease. Thanks to these efforts, the average life expectancy for people with cystic fibrosis has increased significantly in recent decades, and it is now 149
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