PROCLAMATION 7488—OCT. 22, 2001 115 STAT. 2845 products, recreation, clean air, clean water, and wildlife habitat for generations to come. In recognition of the economic, environmental, and recreational importance of our forests, the Congress, by Public Law 86-753 (36 U.S.C. 123), has designated the week beginning on the third Sunday in October of each year as "National Forest Products Week" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this week. NOW, THEREFORE, I. GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 21 through October 27, 2001, as National Forest Products Week. I call upon all Americans to observe that week with appropriate ceremonies and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7488 of October 22, 2001 National Character Counts Week, 2001 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Our Nation was built on a foundation of sound moral principles. The heroes of American history responded to threats to their freedom by choosing to fight for these timeless principles, assuming duties that superseded their self-interest. The character of America's founders was exemplified in their willingness to risk death in resisting tyranny and securing liberty and independence. From the frozen soil of Valley Forge to the beaches of Normandy and the deserts of the Persian Gulf region, American soldiers have answered the call of patriotic duty at great personal cost. Our Nation's character continues to define how we respond to those who threaten America's core principles of liberty, justice, and equality. We saw that character when, in the face of the terrible terrorist attacks of September 11, American firefighters, police officers, and airline passengers sacrificed their lives to save others. We saw it when people across our land donated blood for the victims. And we see it as the children of America donate dollars to help suffering Afghan children. These acts reveal that enduring patriotism and faith are part of the fabric of America. How our military is responding to these despicable attacks is also indicative of our national character. We are waging a war against terrorists who have hijacked their own peaceful religion in an attempt to justify their evil deeds. As we strike military targets, however, we also are dropping food, medicine, and supplies to relieve the suffering among the victims of the Taliban regime. The manner in which we face these and other challenges in this war will continue to influence our country for generations to come. In ful-
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