Proclamations Proc. 7309 If we make wise and informed choices today and in the years to come, we can make our communities more livable, give our citizens greater choice and mobility, protect our environment, and help create a truly global com- munity. The 20th century was indeed a golden age for transportation; the 21st century can be an even brighter one. In recognition of the importance of our Nation's transportation system to our national security and economic health, and in honor of the many dedi- cated men and women who have ensured its continued excellence through the years, the United States Congress, by ioint resolution approved May 16, 1957 (36 U.S.C. 120), has designated the third Friday in May of each year as "National Defense Transportation Day" and, by ioint resolution ap- proved May 14, 1962 (36 U.S.C. 133), declared that the week during which that Friday falls be designated "National Transportation Week." NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM }. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Friday, May 19, 2000, as National Defense Transportation Day and May 14 through May 20, 2000, as National Transportation Week. I urge all Americans to observe these occasions with appropriate ceremonies, programs, and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fourth. WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 7309 of May 18, 2000 National Safe Boating Week, 2000 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Living in a country bordered by oceans and blessed with abundant lakes and rivers, Americans have made recreational boating one of our Nation's most popular pastimes. Each year, more than 74 million Americans take to the water with family and friends to relax and enjoy the beauty of the nat- ural world. But each year, for too many Americans, boating ends in tragedy. Most boat- ing-related injuries and deaths are the result of human error and poor judg- ment, caused, for example, by excessive speed, failure to follow safe navi- gation rules, and drinking or taking drugs while operating watercraft. These injuries could easily be prevented by using common sense and making safety the first priority. Boating accidents can occur at any time--whether the water is smooth or turbulent and whether the boater is experienced or a novice. One of the best ways to make a recreational boating experience safe and enjoyable is to ensure that everyone on board always wears a life jacket. To reinforce this lifesaving message, the National Safe Boating Campaign has once again selected the theme "Boat Smart from the Start! Wear Your Life Jacket!" for this year's observance. Recreational boating organizations, including the National Safe Boating Council and the National Association of State Boat- 81
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