On this first observance of Patriot Day, we remember and honor those who perished in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. We will not forget the events of that terrible morning nor will we forget how Americans responded in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in the skies over Pennsylvania -- with heroism and selflessness; with compassion and courage; and with prayer and hope. We will always remember our collective obligation to ensure that justice is done, that freedom prevails, and that the principles upon which our Nation was founded endure.

Inspired by the heroic sacrifices of our firefighters, rescue and law enforcement personnel, military service members, and other citizens, our Nation found unity, focus, and strength. We found healing in the national outpouring of compassion for those lost, as tens of millions of Americans participated in moments of silence, candlelight vigils, and religious services. From the tragedy of September 11 emerged a stronger Nation, renewed by a spirit of national pride and a true love of country.

We are a people dedicated to the triumph of freedom and democracy over evil and tyranny. The heroic stories of the first responders who gave their all to save others strengthened our resolve. And our Armed Forces have pursued the war against terrorism in Afghanistan and else-where with valor and skill. Together with our coalition partners, they have achieved success.

Americans also have fought back against terror by choosing to overcome evil with good. By loving their neighbors as they would like to be loved, countless citizens have answered the call to help others. They have contributed to relief efforts, improved homeland security in their communities, and volunteered their time to aid those in need. This spirit of service continues to grow as thousands have joined the newly established USA Freedom Corps, committing themselves to changing America one heart at a time through the momentum of millions of acts of decency and kindness.

Those whom we lost last September 11 will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts and in the history of our Nation. As we mark the first anniversary of that tragic day, we remember their sacrifice; and we commit ourselves to honoring their memory by pursuing peace and justice in the world and security at home. By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the Congress has authorized and requested the President to designate September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2002, as Patriot Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities, including remembrance services and candlelight vigils. I also call upon the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Patriot Day. Further, I encourage all Americans to display the flag at half-staff from their homes on that day and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. eastern daylight time, or another appropriate commemorative time, to honor the innocent victims who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Oklahoma City -- Governor Frank Keating today designated Friday, September 6, through Sunday, September 8, as a period of prayer and remembrance for the victims of the 9-11 attacks. He also asked all Oklahomans to join in a moment of silence at 9 a.m. next Wednesday on the anniversary of the attacks.

"Oklahomans know the importance of remembering," Keating said. "We suffered our own terrible losses in 1995, and we are proud to join our fellow Americans in honoring those we lost, and those who served with such bravery, in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania on 9-11." The Governor also issued an executive order lowering flags statewide to half staff on September 11.

The Oklahoma remembrances coincide with national proclamations issued by President Bush. Keating urged all churches, synagogues, mosques and other houses of faith in the state to offer prayers and other messages of hope con-nected to 9-11 at their services this weekend. He also asked Oklahomans to pause in schools, at home and in the workplace for 60 seconds of silence at 9 a.m. Oklahoma time on Wednesday, September 11.

A moment of silence will be observed at 8:46 a.m. on the east coast, marking the time the first hijacked aircraft struck, but Americans in the other three time zones will not be at work or in school at that time.

"We should all pause together in memory," Keating said. "I would also ask that radio and television stations state-wide go dark for 60 seconds at 9 o'clock, and that churches toll their bells. Motorists are encouraged to pull briefly to the side of the road, as long as such action is safe." Keating noted that President Bush has designated September 11 Patriot Day, and he urged Oklahomans to spend the remainder of the day honoring those our nation lost, and their guardians.

"If you see a police officer or a firefighter or a member of the military on 9-11, salute them and say thank you," the Governor said. Keating said he also encourages Oklahomans to join in other national or local observances being organized for 9-11, including a national e-mail campaign to urge motorists to drive with their headlights on throughout the day and local observances like the noontime ceremony at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and a candlelight vigil along the Bricktown Canal in downtown Oklahoma City.

"I would encourage every Oklahoma community to designate a park or other location where people can gather to light candles and reflect on those we lost, and on our national blessing of freedom," he said.