[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 125, 112th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 8709 of September 9, 2011

National Grandparents Day, 2011
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
The support of loved ones provides the earliest and often most powerful
influence on our lives. Grandparents hold a special place in our
families, serving as elders, caregivers, and sources of lasting
inspiration. On National Grandparents Day, we honor the loving presence
of these mentors who have contributed immeasurably to the strength of
our families and our Nation.
As a country, we understand our welfare is determined by that of all
Americans, and it is our responsibility to provide for our grandparents
as they have for us. We must keep Social Security strong and viable,
while preserving it for future generations. We must strengthen Medicare
by making common-sense changes that encourage high-quality care and
address wasteful spending. After a lifetime of contributions to our
Nation and its economy, seniors have earned this support.
Today, our grandparents continue to serve their communities in many
ways. Their spirit of service and warm guidance instill in each of us
the values of community and compassion and inspire all of us to reach
for ever greater heights.
The greatest generation built America into a global force for
prosperity, opportunity, and freedom. They taught us that with hard
work, sacrifice, and a determined spirit, anything is possible. Today,
we honor their contributions to our Nation and its proud story.
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 September 11, 2011, as
National Grandparents Day. I call upon all Americans to take the time to
honor their own grandparents and those in their community.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ninth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
sixth.
BARACK OBAMA