Ronald Reagan’s Thanksgiving day proclamation
THANKSGIVING DAY, 1981 — “Long before there was a government welfare program, this spirit of voluntary giving was ingrained in the American character.”
Thanksgiving has become a day when Americans extend a helping hand to the less fortunate. Long before there was a government welfare program, this spirit of voluntary giving was ingrained in the American character. Americans have always understood that, truly, one must give in order to receive. This should be a day of giving as well as a day of thanks. . . .
Searching our hearts, we should ask what we can do as individuals to demonstrate our gratitude to God for all He has done. Such reflection can only add to the significance of this precious day of remembrance.
Let us recommit ourselves to that devotion to God and family that has played such an important role in making this a great Nation, and which will be needed as a source of strength if we are to remain a great people.
I hope we have not heard our last president willing to mention God in such an address to the country. I was so proud to serve our country under this fine,considerate man. I think his willingness to talk of God made me confident I was in good hands besides those of God.