Proclamation 5167 -- National Social Work Month, 1984
March 22, 1984
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
It is appropriate that Americans express our appreciation to the many thousands of dedicated men and women in all parts of our Nation who have devoted their lives to helping those in need. For more than a century, social workers have been committed to the betterment and general welfare of all our society. They have helped implement social services with creativity, resourcefulness, and true professionalism.
It is within our local communities that the real contribution to the welfare of our citizens is made. Those closest to the problem -- the social workers in State and local governments, area agencies, and private and voluntary organizations -- are usually the most qualified persons to decide what help is needed and the best way to provide it. In this way, they carry on and enhance our proud American heritage of neighbors helping neighbors, and people helping people.
In recognition of the many contributions of the social work profession to the welfare of our society, the Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 112, has authorized and requested the President to proclaim the month of March 1984, as ``National Social Work Month.''
Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the month of March 1984, as National Social Work Month. I ask all our citizens to join in this recognition and to search their hearts for ways in which they too can help their fellow Americans.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second day of March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and eighth.
Ronald Reagan
[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 4:29 p.m., March 22, 1984]
Proclamation 5168 -- National Safe Boating Week, 1984
March 22, 1984
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Americans increasingly look to the water for recreation and relaxation. This year, approximately one-quarter of us will enjoy boating in one or more of its many and varied forms. Therefore, it is important that all those involved in recreational boating observe proper safety practices, know and obey rules of safe boating, and show courtesy and consideration on the water.
In addition, all boaters should wear personal flotation devices while on the water. Seventy-five percent of those who died in boating accidents last year might have been saved had they worn these devices, according to United States Coast Guard instructions.
The theme of this year's ``National Safe Boating Week'' emphasizes the dangers of combining alcohol consumption with boat operation. The use of alcohol and other intoxicating substances is a major factor in boating accidents and fatalities. Boat operators who drink impair their ability to recognize and react to hazards and thereby endanger not only themselves but also others on the water. The use of even small amounts of alcohol can significantly reduce an operator's judgment and boat handling skills. This is particularly true as fatigue caused by sun, glare, noise, wind, and boat motion intensifies the effects of alcohol. Through the observance of ``National Safe Boating Week, 1984,'' Americans should be alerted to these dangers.
In recognition of the need for boating safety, the Congress enacted the joint resolution of June 4, 1958 (36 U.S.C. 161), as amended, authorizing and requesting the President to proclaim annually the week commencing on the first Sunday in June as National Safe Boating Week.
Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the week beginning June 3, 1984, as National Safe Boating Week.
I also invite the Governors of the States, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa, and the Mayor of the District of Columbia to provide for the observance of this week.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second day of March in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and eighth.
Ronald Reagan
[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 4:30 p.m., March 22, 1984]
Proclamation 5169 -- Loyalty Day, 1984
March 22, 1984
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
As Americans, we enjoy a rich heritage of freedom. How fortunate we are that the founders of this great country were committed to the ideal that all people share inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This ideal has been the inspiration for many generations of Americans in the building of what is today the greatest and most prosperous Nation in the world.
The people of the United States cherish their liberties and recognize that our freedoms of conscience and action are at the heart of the unique American tradition. To preserve this great tradition, it is important for us all to pause from time to time to rededicate ourselves to the democratic ideals which have served us so well.
For this purpose, the Congress, by joint resolution approved July 18, 1958 (72 Stat. 369, 36 U.S.C. 162), has designated May 1 of each year as Loyalty Day, a day for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States of America and for the recognition of the heritage of American Freedom.
Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 1984, as Loyalty Day and call upon all Americans and patriotic, civic, and educational organizations to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies. I also call upon all government officials to display the flag of the United States on all government buildings and grounds on that day.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 22nd day of March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and eighth.
Ronald Reagan
[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:38 a.m., March 23, 1984]
Note: The text of the proclamation was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on March 23.