[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8383--MAY 20, 2009

Proclamation 8383 of May 20, 2009
Emergency Medical Services Week, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Emergency medical services providers rush into scenes of uncertainty and
fear, and they help establish order and calm-and save lives in the
process. They include educators, 911 dispatchers, first responders,
emergency medical technicians, paramedics, nurses, physicians, and many
others. These highly skilled teams respond to emergencies 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week.
When Americans find themselves in unexpected life-threatening
situations, emergency medical services (EMS) providers provide rapid
help. Quality emergency medical care dramatically improves the survival
and recovery prospects for those who experience sudden injury or
illness. These EMS teams play a vital role in our Nation's overall
health and safety, as well as our preparedness for pandemic disease and
disasters both natural and man-made.
Emergency medical services providers hail from a variety of backgrounds
and circumstances. They work in rural volunteer fire departments, urban
hospitals, along our coastal waterways, and among fire-prone western
forests. Many spend their off-duty time obtaining extra training and
enhancing their lifesaving skills. All share a common aspiration to help
those in need, and during Emergency Medical Services Week, we express
our appreciation for their critical work.
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 17 through May 23,
2009, as Emergency Medical Services Week. I encourage all Americans to
observe this occasion by sharing their support with local EMS workers
and taking steps to improve their personal safety and preparedness.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.
BARACK OBAMA