Proclamation 5473 -- Naval Aviation Day, 1986
May 8, 1986
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
May 8 marks the seventy-fifth anniversary of naval aviation in the United States. On that day in 1911, Captain Washington Irving Chambers prepared the requisition for the first aircraft for the United States Navy, thereby initiating a long and glorious tradition. Since that date, naval aviation has played an essential role in our national defense, both in peace and war. Naval aviation also has played a vital role in the development of space exploration and aviation technology.
Naval aviators performed superbly in World Wars I and II, the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, and other operations in support of our national security. Today, naval aviators are deployed in all parts of the world aboard our aircraft carriers, other ships, and shore-based naval aviation squadrons. The courage and professionalism of these dedicated men and women were again demonstrated vividly during the anti-terrorist strikes conducted in Libya a few weeks ago. All Americans owe a great debt of gratitude to the people who fly and maintain naval aircraft.
It is appropriate, therefore, that on the day marking the seventy-fifth anniversary of the founding of naval aviation, the people of the United States, along with our friends and allies throughout the world, should celebrate the remarkable achievements and proud heritage of naval aviation.
The Congress, by House Joint Resolution 569, has designated May 8, 1986, as ``Naval Aviation Day'' and authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this occasion.
Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 8, 1986, as Naval Aviation Day, and I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities to honor the brave men and women who have served their country in naval aviation.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and tenth.
Ronald Reagan
[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 10:43 a.m., May 9, 1986]
Proclamation 5474 -- National Fishing Week, 1986
May 8, 1986
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Throughout our history, the Nation's waters have provided a bounty of fish for recreation and food. Every year more than 60 million Americans participate in sport fishing, one of the most wholesome and healthful of outdoor pursuits.
Recreational fishing provides enjoyment and relaxation for citizens of all ages. It brings them into close touch with the beauty, wonders, and abundance of our inland and coastal waters. Sport fishing promotes respect for nature and encourages sound conservation.
In this great land we are particularly blessed. Not only does sport fishing represent an important commitment to conservation and recreation, it sustains a billion-dollar industry. Through the special taxes, licenses, and fees that sport fishermen pay, tens of millions of dollars are made available each year to fund fishery restoration projects throughout the 50 States and the Territories.
Fishing, of course, is also a major industry that provides employment for more than 300,000 Americans each year and lands some six billion pounds of seafood worth about two and a half billion dollars in direct sales.
In recognition of the valuable financial contributions sport fishing makes to fish conservation programs in every State, and in light of the time-honored recreation it means for so many of our citizens, it is fitting that we observe a National Fishing Week. It is proper that we encourage our Nation's sport fishermen to take pride in their sport and in what it does to preserve and enhance America's fishery resources.
The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 262, has requested and authorized the President to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning June 2, 1986, through June 8, 1986, as ``National Fishing Week.''
Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the week of June 2 through 8, 1986, as National Fishing Week. I urge all Americans to join with anglers in appreciating and working to conserve our priceless freshwater, estuarine, and marine resources.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and tenth.
Ronald Reagan
[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 10:44 a.m., May 9, 1986]