country’s call in Vietnam and those who awaited their safe return. Beginning on Memorial Day 2012, the Federal Government will partner with local governments, private organizations, and communities across America to participate in the Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War—a 13-year program to honor and give thanks to a generation of proud Americans who saw our country through one of the most challenging missions we have ever faced. While no words will ever be fully worthy of their service, nor any honor truly befitting their sacrifice, let us remember that it is never too late to pay tribute to the men and women who answered the call of duty with courage and valor. Let us renew our commitment to the fullest possible accounting for those who have not returned. Throughout this Commemoration, let us strive to live up to their example by showing our Vietnam veterans, their families, and all who have served the fullest respect and support of a grateful Nation.

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 28, 2012, through November 11, 2025, as the Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to honor our Vietnam veterans, our fallen, our wounded, those unaccounted for, our former prisoners of war, their families, and all who served with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

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

Proclamation 8830 of May 25, 2012

National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2012

By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Every year, hurricanes put communities at risk of catastrophic damage from storm surges, flooding, high winds, and tornadoes. During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, we rededicate ourselves to preventing loss of life and damage to property by raising awareness about hurricane hazards and taking action to protect our families, our homes, and our neighborhoods.

My Administration is working hand-in-hand with communities and State and local officials to take necessary steps to prepare before storms strike. With the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Hurricane Center, we continue to advance accurate tropical storm forecasting that gives individuals more time to get out of harm’s way. And through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, we are collaborating with partners across all levels of government and throughout the private and non-profit sectors to develop robust systems for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. By engaging voices not only at the State and national levels, but also within neighborhoods, we empower communities

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