George Herbert Walker Bush

“ The responsibilities of a firefighter often entail considerable personal risk and sacrifice. In addition to enduring what are sometimes long and unpredictable hours—a burden shared by the loved ones who must cope with worry and waiting—firefighters are frequently called to put themselves in harm's way to protect the lives and the property of others. Today we remember in a special way those firefighters who have perished in the line of duty. Their great sacrifice underscores the risks that firefighters accept, each and every day, for our sake. ”

“ When you ask a group of youngsters what each would like to be when he or she grows up, frequently, at least one will reply: "a fireman!" Even though the aspirations of youth often change over time, it is, nonetheless, a very telling answer. Children as well as adults recognize the extraordinary courage of firefighters—and the tremendous importance of their work. On this occasion, Americans of all ages join in paying grateful tribute to the heroic individuals who serve our Nation as professional and volunteer firefighters. ”

“ In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of October, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and sixteenth. ”