Proclamation 5907 --
National Firefighters Day, 1988
By
the President of the
A
Proclamation
Each
year, fires claim some 6,000 lives in our country and destroy property worth
$10 billion. The toll would be much higher were it not for the skilled and
dedicated individuals who are our Nation's firefighters. These Americans, our
friends and neighbors, confront danger every day as they protect our lives,
homes, and communities. They exemplify the very best in the American spirit. On
National Firefighters Day, 1988, and all year long, we owe municipal,
volunteer, and all other firefighters our heartfelt thanks, our utmost respect,
and our thorough cooperation in their fire prevention, rescue, and safety
efforts.
Last
year, 127 firefighters gave their lives in the line of duty. Let us pause in
solemn and prayerful remembrance of these fallen heroes and of all firefighters
who have given their lives through the years. Let us also be sure to extend our
support and sympathy to their brave families.
From
the days of firefighters' hand-drawn rigs in the 18th century to those of
19th-century horse-drawn engines, and on to today's modern fire and rescue
vehicles, Americans young and old have thrilled, during many a parade on many a
Main Street or Maple Avenue throughout our land, to colorful and exciting
displays of powerful firefighting equipment. But we have thrilled even more in
understanding and appreciation of firefighters' critical mission and their
indispensable spirit of courage, service, and sacrifice. May such recognition
always inspire us to salute and thank
The
Congress, by House Joint Resolution 649, has designated
Now,
Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the
In
Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of November, in the
year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-eight, and of the
Ronald
Reagan
[Filed with the Office
of the Federal Register,