1. September 11, 2002, was the first anniversary of unprecedented terrorist attacks resulting in a momentous loss of life and property.
2. The terrorists hoped to bring Americans to their knees. Instead, they brought Americans to their feet. The terrorists hoped to demoralize and intimidate Americans and undermine their way of life. Instead, Americans became more resolute in their commitment to cherished democratic and humanitarian principles that form the moral foundation of this nation.
3. The anniversary of this tragedy is also an anniversary of triumph, a triumph of character - courage over
cowardice, kindness over cruelty, service over selfishness, responsibility over indifference, love over hate, hope over fear, and freedom over repression.
4. We should demonstrate our respect for the victims of this terrible day by commemorating the lives lost and damaged, but we should also honor and celebrate the countless acts of courage, compassion, loyalty, responsibility and other qualities that represent the best in human nature and the American character.
5. We should remember September 11th not only as a day of great misfortune, but as a reminder of the great fortune we possess in the character of our people and in living in a country where character-counts.
6. It should be a day of reflection and education involving activities that strengthen appreciation of and dedication to the core ethical values that constitute the pillars of the American character, such as trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and good citizenship.
7. It should also be a day of action devoted to community service, an element of good citizenship and an expression of good character. Community service improves neighborhoods, eases suffering and reduces injustice while enhancing the lives and strengthening the characters of those who render it.
8. Community service is also a matter of national policy expressed in President George W. Bush's call for all Americans to give at least 4,000 hours of service and in The Spirit of America Act seeking to assure that the lives lost on September 11th are commemorated by acts of volunteer service.

Be it known that the James Van Dierendonck Elementary School proclaims the period commencing September 8 and ending September 14 as "American Character Week" and calls upon schools, youth organizations, community groups and government agencies to use this period annually to:

1. Discuss and study the lives of Americans of extraordinary character.
2. Recognize local individuals who have in the past year demonstrated the highest qualities of the American character.
3. Teach young people about and encourage them to consider careers in public service.