CHAPTER 723
STATE OF DELAWARE
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT
DOVER
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Delaware led the nation by being the first of the thirteen original states to ratify the Constitution of the United States by unanimous vote of a convention held at Dover on December 7, 1787; and
WHEREAS, this ratification and subsequent ratifications by Delaware's sister states provide an enduring framework of government which both shelters and perpetuates human liberties and the Rights of Man; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that Delawareans commemorate this important achievement and set aside each December 7 as a day of personal rededication to the principles fought for in the American Revolution and enshrined in the Constitution; and
WHEREAS, December 7 was first celebrated as Delaware Day by proclamation in 1933; and
WHEREAS, December 7 was officially designated as Delaware Day by the General Assembly on May 15, 1939;
NOW THEREFORE, I, RUSSELL W. PETERSON, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, December 7,1971, as
in the First State and urge all schools, civic, fraternal, and veterans organizations to observe this most significant event in our history with appropriate and meaningful ceremonies. I ask that all churches and religious groups mark the occasion by joining in prayer to Almighty God for the inspiration of our leaders and citizens that they may be continually guided by the progressive and enlightened example of the founders of our State.
FURTHER, I direct that on this day our National and State flags be flown from all public buildings, and I urge all citizens to display both flags on their private residences.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I, RUSSELL W. PETERSON, Governor of the State of Delaware, have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the said State to be hereunto affixed at Dover this 23rd
(GREAT SEAL) day of November in the year of our Lord, one thousand nine hundred and seventy-one, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the one hundred and ninety-sixth.
RUSSELL W. PETERSON, Governor
WALTON H. SIMPSON, Secretary of State