Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 123.djvu/3670

123STA T . 3 650PROCL A M AT I O N8 381 — MA Y 15 , 200 9moreab o ut m il itar ys er v i c e by atte nd in g and p articipating in t h e local observances o f the day .I also encourage A mericans to volunteer at or - gani z ations that provide support to our troops. P roclamation 7562 of M ay 1 6 , 2 0 02, is hereby superseded. I NW I T N ES SW H E R E OF , I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of May, in the year of our L ord t w o thousand nine, and of the Independence of the U nited States of America the two hundred and thirty-third. B ARA CK OBAMA Proclam a ti o n83 8 1 o fM a y 1 5,20 0 9Nation a lS a feB oatin gW ee k,20 0 9BythePr e sid e n t of the U nited S t a tes of Am eri c a A Proc l amation Each year, millions of Americans ta k e to our Nation ’ s waterways for recreational boating. Whether paddling down a rushing river or cruis- ing on a serene lake, boaters are attracted to the incomparable feeling of being out on the water. They also are drawn by opportunities to e x - ercise, appreciate nature, en j oy q uiet solitude, or relax with family and friends. Unfortunately, accidents can occur as Americans participate in this popular pastime. Many serious incidents are preventable, and during National Safe Boating Week, I ask Americans to learn more about how to enjoy our Nation’s waters safely and responsibly. Simple steps can greatly reduce the chances of an accident. In prepara- tion for the boating season, Americans can take boating safety courses and get a free vessel safety check. These steps can help prevent prob- lems before they happen and prepare boaters for problems that may occur while on the water. Boaters should also wear a Coast G uard-ap- proved life jacket and never boat under the influence of drugs or alco- hol. These critical precautions can save lives and help ensure a ful- filling experience. Each year during this week, the United States Coast Guard partners with organizations to educate and inform the public about safe boating. I join them in calling upon Americans to protect themselves and others while boating. Recognizing the importance of safe boating practices, the Congress, by joint resolution approved J une 4 ,1 9 5 8(3 6 U.S.C. 131 ) , as amended, has authorized and requested the President to annually proclaim the 7-day period prior to Memorial D ay weekend as ‘ ‘National Safe Boating Week.’’ NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 16 through May 22, 2009, as National Safe Boating Week. I encourage all Americans to join in ob- serving this occasion by learning more about boating safety and com- mitting themselves to safe practices on the water.