The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 31, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--National Caribbean-American Heritage Month

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

     The fabric of our Nation has been woven together and enriched by the diversity of our people.  Our legacy as a Nation of immigrants is part of what makes America strong, and during National Caribbean American Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich history and vibrant culture Caribbean Americans have brought to our shores.

     Immigrants from Caribbean countries have come to America for centuries.  Some came through the bondage of slavery.  Others willfully left behind the world they knew in search of a better life.  Regardless of the circumstances of their arrival, they had faith their descendants would have a chance to realize their greatest potential.

     Caribbean Americans have prospered in every sector of our society and enhanced our national character while maintaining the multiethnic and multicultural traditions of their homelands.  They are doctors and lawyers, public servants and scientists, and athletes and service members.  Their successes inspire individuals in the United States and abroad, and we take pride in the contributions Caribbean Americans continue to make to the narrative of our Nation's progress.  Their achievements are borne of hard work and ambition, and my Administration is committed to creating pathways to prosperity that ensure future generations of Caribbean Americans, along with all Americans, are able to pursue and realize the American dream.

     This month, we also recognize the important friendship between the United States and the countries of the Caribbean as we expand our partnership to promote economic development, democratic governance, citizen security, and improved health and education in the region.  Additionally, as Haiti continues to recover from last year's devastating earthquake, we remain committed to standing beside the people of Haiti as they rebuild their proud nation, and to working with others in the region to bring lasting prosperity and stability to the country.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2011 as National Caribbean American Heritage Month.  I urge all Americans to commemorate this time when we celebrate the history and culture of Caribbean Americans.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 31, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

The story of America's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community is the story of our fathers and sons, our mothers and daughters, and our friends and neighbors who continue the task of making our country a more perfect Union. It is a story about the struggle to realize the great American promise that all people can live with dignity and fairness under the law. Each June, we commemorate the courageous individuals who have fought to achieve this promise for LGBT Americans, and we rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of equal rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Since taking office, my Administration has made significant progress towards achieving equality for LGBT Americans. Last December, I was proud to sign the repeal of the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. With this repeal, gay and lesbian Americans will be able to serve openly in our Armed Forces for the first time in our Nation's history. Our national security will be strengthened and the heroic contributions these Americans make to our military, and have made throughout our history, will be fully recognized.

My Administration has also taken steps to eliminate discrimination against LGBT Americans in Federal housing programs and to give LGBT Americans the right to visit their loved ones in the hospital. We have made clear through executive branch nondiscrimination policies that discrimination on the basis of gender identity in the Federal workplace will not be tolerated. I have continued to nominate and appoint highly qualified, openly LGBT individuals to executive branch and judicial positions. Because we recognize that LGBT rights are human rights, my Administration stands with advocates of equality around the world in leading the fight against pernicious laws targeting LGBT persons and malicious attempts to exclude LGBT organizations from full participation in the international system. We led a global campaign to ensure "sexual orientation" was included in the United Nations resolution on extrajudicial execution -- the only United Nations resolution that specifically mentions LGBT people -- to send the unequivocal message that no matter where it occurs, state-sanctioned killing of gays and lesbians is indefensible. No one should be harmed because of who they are or who they love, and my Administration has mobilized unprecedented public commitments from countries around the world to join in the fight against hate and homophobia.

At home, we are working to address and eliminate violence against LGBT individuals through our enforcement and implementation of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. We are also working to reduce the threat of bullying against young people, including LGBT youth. My Administration is actively engaged with educators and community leaders across America to reduce violence and discrimination in schools. To help dispel the myth that bullying is a harmless or inevitable part of growing up, the First Lady and I hosted the first White House Conference on Bullying Prevention in March. Many senior Administration officials have also joined me in reaching out to LGBT youth who have been bullied by recording "It Gets Better" video messages to assure them they are not alone.

This month also marks the 30th anniversary of the emergence of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which has had a profound impact on the LGBT community. Though we have made strides in combating this devastating disease, more work remains to be done, and I am committed to expanding access to HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Last year, I announced the first comprehensive National HIV/AIDS Strategy for the United States. This strategy focuses on combinations of evidence-based approaches to decrease new HIV infections in high risk communities, improve care for people living with HIV/AIDS, and reduce health disparities. My Administration also increased domestic HIV/AIDS funding to support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program and HIV prevention, and to invest in HIV/AIDS-related research. However, government cannot take on this disease alone. This landmark anniversary is an opportunity for the LGBT community and allies to recommit to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and continuing the fight against this deadly pandemic.

Every generation of Americans has brought our Nation closer to fulfilling its promise of equality. While progress has taken time, our achievements in advancing the rights of LGBT Americans remind us that history is on our side, and that the American people will never stop striving toward liberty and justice for all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2011 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. I call upon the people of the United States to eliminate prejudice everywhere it exists, and to celebrate the great diversity of the American people.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

              BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 31, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--Great Outdoors Month

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

For generations, America's great outdoors have ignited our imaginations, bolstered our economy, and fueled our national spirit of adventure and independence. The United States holds a stunning array of natural beauty -- from sweeping rangelands and tranquil beaches, to forests stretching over rolling hills and rivers raging through stone-faced cliffs. During Great Outdoors Month, we rededicate ourselves to experiencing and protecting these unique landscapes and treasured sites.

As America's frontier diminished and our cities expanded, a few bold leaders and individuals had the foresight to protect our most precious natural and historic places. Today, we all share the responsibility to uphold their legacy of conservation, whether by protecting an iconic vast public land, or by creating a community garden or an urban park. Last year, I was proud to launch the America's Great Outdoors Initiative, a project that empowers Americans to help build a new approach to conservation and outdoor recreation. My Administration hosted dozens of regional listening sessions to collect ideas from people from across our country with a stake in the health of our environment and natural places. Our conversations with businesspeople, ranchers, hunters, fishermen, tribal leaders, students, and community groups led to a report unveiled in February, America's Great Outdoors: A Promise to Future Generations, which lays the foundation for smarter, more community-driven action to protect our invaluable natural heritage.

Our plan will restore and increase recreational access to public lands and waterways; bolster rural landscapes, including working farms and ranches; develop the next generation of urban parks and community green spaces; and create a new Conservation Service Corps so that young people can experience and restore the great outdoors. To implement these recommendations, my Administration is dedicated to building strong working relationships with State, local, and tribal governments, as well as community, private, and non-profit partners across America. The First Lady's "Let's Move!" initiative encourages youth to enjoy what our outdoors have to offer. These programs and partnerships will improve our quality of life and our health, rejuvenate local and regional economies, spur job creation, protect wildlife and historic places, and ensure our natural legacy endures for generations to come. All Americans can read the report and learn more at www.AmericasGreatOutdoors.gov.

As we commit to protecting our country's outdoor spaces, we also celebrate all they have to offer. Our public lands and other open areas provide myriad opportunities for families and friends to explore, play, and grow together -- from hiking and wildlife watching to canoeing, hunting, and fishing, and playing in a neighborhood park. These activities can help our kids stay healthy, active, and energized, while reconnecting with their natural heritage. This month, let each of us resolve to protect our great outdoors; discover their wonders; and share them with our friends, our neighbors, and our children.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2011 as Great Outdoors Month. I urge all Americans to explore the great outdoors and to uphold our Nation's legacy of conserving our lands for future generations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

       BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 27, 2011

Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day, 2011

     For over two centuries, brave men and women have laid down their lives in defense of our great Nation.  These heroes have made the ultimate sacrifice so we may uphold the ideals we all cherish.  On this Memorial Day, we honor the generations of Americans who have fought and died to defend our freedom.

     Today, all who wear the uniform of the United States carry with them the proud legacies of those who have made our Nation great, from the patriots who fought at Lexington and Concord to the troops who stormed the beaches at Normandy.  Ordinary men and women of extraordinary courage have, since our earliest days, answered the call of duty with valor and unwavering devotion.  From Gettysburg to Kandahar, America's sons and daughters have served with honor and distinction, securing our liberties and laying a foundation for lasting peace.

     On this solemn day in which Americans unite in remembrance of our country's fallen, we also pray for our military personnel and their families, our veterans, and all who have lost loved ones.  As a grateful Nation, we forever carry the selfless sacrifice of our fallen heroes in our hearts, and we share the task of caring for those they left behind.

     In his second Inaugural Address, in the midst of the Civil War, President Lincoln called on our embattled Nation "to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations."  On this Memorial Day, and every day, we bear a heavy burden of responsibility to uphold the founding principles so many died defending.  I call on all Americans to come together to honor the men and women who gave their lives so that we may live free, and to strive for a just and lasting peace in our world.

     In honor of our fallen service members, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 11, 1950, as amended (36 U.S.C. 116), has requested the President issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe each Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace and designating a period on that day when the people of the United States might unite in prayer.  The Congress, by Public Law 106 579, has also designated 3:00 p.m. local time on that day as a time for all Americans to observe, in their own way, the National Moment of Remembrance.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Memorial Day, May 30, 2011, as a day of prayer for permanent peace, and I designate the hour beginning in each locality at 11:00 a.m. of that day as a time to unite in prayer.  I also ask all Americans to observe the National Moment of Remembrance beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.

     I request the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half staff until noon on this Memorial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control.  I also request the people of the United States to display the flag at half staff from their homes for the customary forenoon period.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 23, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement

     1.  On May 6, 2003, the President entered into the United States Singapore Free Trade Agreement (USSFTA).  The USSFTA was approved by the Congress in section 101(a) of the United States Singapore Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (the "USSFTA Act") (Public Law 108 78, 117 Stat. 948) (19 U.S.C. 3805 note).

     2.  Presidential Proclamation 7747 of December 30, 2003, implemented the USSFTA with respect to the United States and, pursuant to the USSFTA Act, incorporated in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) the tariff modifications and rules of origin necessary or appropriate to carry out the USSFTA.

     3.  Section 202 of the USSFTA Act provides rules for determining whether goods imported into the United States originate in the territory of a USSFTA Party and thus are eligible for the tariff and other treatment contemplated under the USSFTA.  Section 202(o) authorizes the President to proclaim, as part of the HTS, the rules of origin set out in the USSFTA and to proclaim modifications to previously proclaimed rules of origin, subject to the consultation and layover requirements of section 103(a) of the USSFTA Act.

     4.  The United States and Singapore have agreed to modify the USSFTA rules of origin by adding certain rules of origin.  I have determined that modification of the USSFTA rules of origin set forth in Proclamation 7747 is therefore necessary.

     5.  On July 24, 2010, in accordance with section 103(a) of the USSFTA Act, the United States Trade Representative submitted a report to the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Finance of the Senate that set forth the proposed modifications to the USSFTA rules of origin.  The consultation and layover period specified in section 103(a) expired on November 22, 2010.

     6.  Presidential Proclamation 8097 of December 29, 2006, modified the HTS pursuant to section 1206 of the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988 (19 U.S.C. 3006) to conform the HTS to amendments to the International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System.2

     7.  Presidential Proclamation 8214 of December 27, 2007, modified the HTS, including adjustments to rules of origin under the USSFTA to ensure that the tariff and certain other treatment accorded originating goods of Singapore under tariff categories

     modified in Proclamation 8097 continued, and to carry out the duty reductions proclaimed in Proclamation 7747.  A rule of origin was inadvertently omitted from general note 25 of the HTS.  I have determined that a technical correction to general note 25 to the HTS is necessary to provide for the intended tariff and certain other treatment accorded under the USSFTA to originating goods of Singapore.

     8.  On April 12, 2006, the United States entered into the United States Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (USPTPA), and on June 24 and June 25, 2007, the Parties to the USPTPA signed a protocol amending the USPTPA.  The Congress approved the USPTPA as amended in section 101(a) of the United States Peru Trade Promotion Agreement Implementation Act (the "USPTPA Act") (Public Law 110 138, 121 Stat. 1455) (19 U.S.C. 3805 note).

     9.  Section 201 of the USPTPA Act authorizes the President to proclaim such modifications or continuation of any duty, such continuation of duty free or excise treatment, or such additional duties, as the President determines to be necessary or appropriate to carry out or apply Articles 2.3, 2.5, 2.6, 3.3.13 and Annex 2.3 of the USPTPA.

     10.  U.S. General Note 5 to Annex 2.3 of the USPTPA provides that originating goods of Peru shall not be subject to any duty provided for in heading 9901 of the HTS, provided that certain conditions specified in that note are met.

     11.  Pursuant to section 201 of the USPTPA Act, I have determined that modifications to the HTS are necessary to carry out U.S. General Note 5 to Annex 2.3 of the USPTPA.

     12.  Presidential Proclamation 6641 of December 15, 1993, implemented the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with respect to the United States and, pursuant to the North American Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (the "NAFTA Act") (Public Law 103-182, 107 Stat. 2057), incorporated in the HTS the schedule of duty reductions and rules of origin necessary or appropriate to carry out the NAFTA.

     13.  Section 202 of the NAFTA Act (19 U.S.C. 3332) provides rules for determining whether goods imported into the United States originate in a NAFTA Party and thus are eligible for the tariff and other treatment contemplated under the NAFTA.

     14.  Presidential Proclamation 8405 of August 31, 2009, modified the HTS, including adjustments to rules of origin under the NAFTA, to ensure that the tariff and certain other treatment accorded originating goods of Canada and Mexico under tariff categories modified in Proclamation 8097 continued.  Two technical errors were made in the modifications to general note 12 to the HTS.  I have determined that technical corrections to general note 12 to the HTS are necessary to provide for the intended tariff and certain other treatment accorded under the NAFTA to originating goods.

     15.  Presidential Proclamation 8536 of June 12, 2010, made technical corrections to certain rules of origin under the NAFTA.  Two additional errors in general note 12 were not corrected in that proclamation.  I have determined that further technical corrections to general note 12 are necessary to provide the tariff and certain other treatment accorded under the NAFTA to originating goods.

     16.  Section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), authorizes the President to embody in the HTS the substance of the relevant provisions of that Act, and of other Acts, affecting import treatment, and actions thereunder, including the removal, modification, continuance, or imposition of any rate of duty or other import restriction.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 202 of the USSFTA Act, section 201 of the USPTPA Act, and section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, do proclaim that:

     (1)  In order to modify the rules of origin under the USSFTA, general note 25 to the HTS is modified as provided in Annex I to this proclamation.

     (2)  The modifications made by section A of Annex I to this proclamation shall be effective with respect to goods of Singapore that are entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after May 24, 2011.

     (3)  The modification made by section B of Annex I to this proclamation shall be effective with respect to goods of Singapore that are entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after February 7, 2008.

     (4)  In order to implement certain provisions of Annex 2.3 of the USPTPA, the HTS is modified as provided in Annex II to this proclamation.

     (5)  The modifications made by Annex II to this proclamation shall be effective with respect to originating goods of Peru entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after January 1, 2011.

     (6)  In order to make technical corrections necessary to provide the intended rules of origin under the NAFTA, the HTS is modified as set forth in Annex III to this proclamation.

     (7)  The modifications to the HTS set forth in Annex III to this proclamation shall be effective with respect to articles entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after October 2, 2009.

     (8)  Any provisions of previous proclamations and Executive Orders that are inconsistent with the actions taken in this proclamation are superseded to the extent of such inconsistency.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
     twenty-third day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 20, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--National Safe Boating Week

     As Americans anticipate the warm weather of the summer months, we look to our Nation's abundant outdoors and waterways for relaxation and recreation.  America's lakes, rivers, and oceans are enjoyable, but can sometimes pose dangers to watergoers.  National Safe Boating Week is an opportunity to highlight the importance of safety precautions and sensible behavior when spending time on the water.

     Safe boating is responsible boating.  Individuals can prepare for excursions by taking boating safety courses and filing float plans with family members, relatives, or friends.  To prevent accidents and drowning while on the water, boaters should remain aware of weather conditions, perform vessel safety checks, and ensure each passenger wears a life jacket and all required safety equipment is on board.  Safe boating is also sober boating.  Alcohol use is a leading factor in fatal boating accidents, so limiting alcohol use while on or operating a boat can save lives.

     Each year for National Safe Boating Week, the United States Coast Guard partners with boating organizations to raise awareness on the importance of taking proper precautions while boating.  By embracing responsible boating practices, Americans can avoid preventable injuries and enjoy the majesty of our Nation's waterways.

     In recognition of the importance of safe boating practices, the Congress, by joint resolution approved June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 131), as amended, has authorized and requested the President to proclaim annually the 7-day period prior to Memorial Day weekend as "National Safe Boating Week."

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 21 through May 27, 2011, as National Safe Boating Week.  I encourage all Americans who participate in boating activities to observe this occasion by learning more about safe boating practices and taking advantage of boating education.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
     twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 20, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--National Hurricane Preparedness Week

     National Hurricane Preparedness Week highlights the importance of planning ahead to protect our families and secure our communities and homes in advance of the upcoming hurricane season.

     Hurricanes are powerful storms that can create severe flooding, dangerous storm surges, high winds, and tornadoes.  The effects of these storms can be devastating to entire communities and can have long-lasting consequences, including loss of life and property.  In addition to threatening coastal areas, hurricanes significantly impact inland locations.  Our Nation has seen devastating hurricanes and storms, and we must not let our guard down as we prepare for this year's hurricane season.  With tens of millions of Americans living in coastal communities, preparation can enhance our ability to respond to and recover from any natural disaster we might face.

     Our Nation's weather forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Hurricane Center continue to improve the accuracy of their hurricane forecasts.  However, we cannot prevent a hurricane from making landfall, and awareness of the threat is not enough -- we must translate this knowledge into action, and work together to develop prepared and resilient communities.  My Administration recognizes that we must move from a government-centric approach to disaster management to a community-oriented approach that includes all levels of government, the private sector, volunteers, community and faith-based organizations, and the public.  A whole
     community effort is needed to effectively prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate against any disaster.

     During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, we emphasize the need for individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and families to prepare emergency plans, create emergency supply kits, and learn evacuation routes.  More information on hurricane hazards and details on how to secure buildings and belongings is available at www.Hurricanes.gov/Prepare and www.Ready.gov.

     America has seen the heartbreak a hurricane can leave behind.  By working together, government, private and nonprofit organizations, emergency responders, and private citizens can help save lives and reduce the damage caused by these storms.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States,

     do hereby proclaim May 22 through May 28, 2011, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week.  I call upon government agencies, private organizations, schools, media, and residents in the coastal areas of our Nation to share information about hurricane preparedness and response to help save lives and protect communities.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 20, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--Armed Forces Day

     The Armed Forces of the United States of America embody the highest ideals of our Nation.  Serving at home and in posts around the world, our service members represent America as ambassadors of our principles.  They display the honor, duty, and discipline of the finest fighting force the world has ever known.  These brave men and women are willing to sacrifice their lives for the security of our Nation and the freedoms of their fellow citizens.  We are humbled by their continued resolve to respond to the call of duty and defend America and its people.

     From our earliest days as a fledgling republic, the United States has relied on the unwavering courage and patriotism of our men and women in uniform to sustain us through wars, emergencies, and challenges at home and abroad.  While conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas demand an ever-changing set of capabilities and competencies, our service members continue to protect our Nation with professionalism and distinction.

     As a grateful Nation, we are indebted to the members of our Armed Forces for their service, and we support them in each mission they are tasked to accomplish.  I have no greater privilege as President of the United States than serving as Commander in Chief, and my Administration is dedicated to providing the men and women of our Armed Forces with the resources and support they require and deserve.  We are also committed to providing the same superior support to our veterans when they return home.  This is the sacred trust our Nation must hold with her warriors.

     It is not just our troops who are called to serve and sacrifice, but also their families, who give our service members the love and support they need to carry on the fight.  We will continue to improve and enhance our support for the families and survivors our troops leave behind.  These heroes are dedicated to defending the country we love, and we must stand firmly beside them and help care for their spouses and children.

     On Armed Forces Day, let us salute the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who perform their duties with impeccable courage, commitment, and character, and recognize our moral obligation to serve them and their families as well as they have served us.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, continuing the precedent of my predecessors in office, do hereby proclaim the third Saturday of May as Armed Forces Day.

     I direct the Secretary of Defense on behalf of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, and the Secretary of Homeland Security on behalf of the Coast Guard, to plan for appropriate observances, with the Secretary of Defense responsible for encouraging the participation and cooperation of civil authorities and private citizens.

     I invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day in an appropriate manner to increase public understanding and appreciation of our Armed Forces.  I also invite veterans, civic leaders, and other organizations to join in the observance of Armed Forces Day.

     Finally, I call upon all Americans to display the flag of the United States at their homes on Armed Forces Day, and I urge citizens to learn more about military service by attending and participating in the local observances of the day.  I also encourage Americans to volunteer at organizations that provide support to our troops.

     Proclamation 8522 of May 14, 2010, is hereby superseded.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
     twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 18, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--National Maritime Day

NATIONAL MARITIME DAY, 2011

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION


     In times of peace or war, the civilians serving in the United States Merchant Marine have helped keep our Nation safe and prosperous.  We depend on these men and women serving on our ships and tugs, in our ports and shipyards, close to home or far at sea, to connect businesses, service members, and citizens around the world.  On National Maritime Day, we honor their invaluable contributions to America's economic strength and security.

     On May 22, 1819, the SS Savannah completed the first successful voyage by a steam powered ship across the Atlantic, shepherding in a new age of maritime travel and transport.  By the 20th century, the United States maritime trade was booming, fostering exchanges across the world and aiding our military at war.  During World War II, Merchant Marines were critical in providing necessary supplies and services to troops abroad, while suffering an extraordinarily high death rate.  Hundreds of merchant ships fell to enemy action, and nearly one in thirty mariners did not return home.

     United States flag vessels and those who operate them continue to be an integral part of our military operations overseas.  They support operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as humanitarian aid missions and disaster relief efforts.  Without the steadfast commitment of our mariners, our Nation would not be as prepared to deal with unforeseen events, conflicts, or crises.  Their bravery and valor make our waterways safer and more efficient every day.

     Today, our maritime industry is a valuable source of skilled employment for American workers, contributing billions of dollars to our economy.  It is also a critical part of our transportation system.  Last year, my Administration implemented "America's Marine Highway Program," an effort that enables American businesses to participate in improving the safety and environmental sustainability of our waterways.  Our mariners' continued work is helping American industry remain competitive in the global economy, pushing us toward a more prosperous and free 21st century.

     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 appropriate observance.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2011, as National Maritime Day.  I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display 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 eighteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.


BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
May 13, 2011

Presidential Proclamation--Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week

     Our Nation's public safety officers are heroes who risk their lives to keep our families and communities safe.  Each of these brave men and women goes to work not knowing what dangers might lie ahead, making tremendous sacrifices to uphold justice and protect the innocent.  This week, we extend our gratitude for their service to our country.  We also remember those killed in the line of duty, and we mourn their loss and honor the loved ones they left behind.

     Our law enforcement personnel are dedicated to the communities they serve,working tirelessly to transform neighborhoods across our country.  Despite facing budget constraints and daily threats, public safety officers embrace innovative approaches to improving our Nation and upholding the rule of law.

     Public safety officers put their lives on the line to protect ours, sometimes making the ultimate sacrifice.  One death is too many, and every death is an unfathomable loss to the officer's family, colleagues, and community.  In the past year, we have seen a tragic wave of police officer fatalities, and have mourned the loss of too many public safety officers.  This year also marks 10 years since the tragedy of September 11.  We will always remember the selfless courage shown by police officers, fire fighters, and first responders in New York City, Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon who rushed into unknown dangers to save the lives of others.  Their service -- and the service of all who have worn the badge -- will never be forgotten.

     While we can never adequately thank our law enforcement officers for their service, we can use every tool at our disposal to protect them on the job.  My Administration is committed to stopping senseless tragedies and keeping our police safe.  We will continue to provide funding for resources to keep cops on the street and to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and organizations to develop strategies that reduce injuries and deaths in the line of duty.  We have also launched the new Preventing Violence Against Law Enforcement and Ensuring Officer Resilience and Survivability (VALOR) initiative, designed to reduce and prevent law enforcement officer injuries and line-of-duty deaths.

     Weknow that bullet-resistant vests and body armor can save lives.  After consulting with members of the law enforcement community, we instituted a new mandatory wear policy as part of our Bulletproof Vest Partnership program beginning this year.  We will also continue to seek more efficient ways to share information and invest in evidence-based, smart-on-crime approaches to fighting crime.  Moreover, if tragedy does strike, we will provide support to the families of law enforcement officers.

     As we commemorate Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, we honor the discipline and distinction our peace officers have shown in conditions we can only imagine.  They are continually called upon to remain vigilant and take courageous action.  As a country, we promise to stand beside our public safety community and do our part to help keep America safe and secure.

     By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (76 Stat. 676), and by Public Law 103-322, as amended (36 U.S.C. 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as "Peace Officers Memorial Day" and the week in which it falls as"Police Week."

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2011, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 15 through May 21, 2011, as Police Week.  I call upon all Americans to observe these events with appropriate ceremonies and activities.  I also call on Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of the other territories subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day.  I further encourage all Americans to display the flag at half-staff from their homes and businesses on that day.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA