President Bush declared April 5-7 days of national thanksgiving to commemorate the end of the Persian Gulf war, the White House announced.
In a proclamation Thursday, Bush set aside the three days, urging Americans to gather in thanksgiving and for the U.S. flag to be flown and bells rung nationwide at 1 p.m. MDT Sunday, April 7, "in celebration of the liberation of Kuwait and the end of hostilities in the Persian Gulf.""As we prepare to welcome home our courageous servicemen and women and join in the joyful celebrations of the Kuwaiti people, it is fitting that we give thanks to our Heavenly Father, our help and shield, for his mercy and protection," Bush declared.
Even as American troops and prisoners of war headed home from the Middle East, Bush signed the proclamation in the Oval Office while meeting with ecumenical leaders.
"I ask that Americans gather in homes and places of worship to give thanks to almighty God for the liberation of Kuwait, for the blessings of peace and liberty, for our troops, our families and our nation."
Coincidentally, the 151st Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is April 6 and 7.