CHAPTER 360 - STATE OF DELAWARE - EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT PROCLAMATION
Thanksgiving is characteristically American. As we again approach it, let us do so in an attitude of deep reflection and silent meditation.
Fully conscious of the unhappy events which mar the peace and tranquility of our people at this period of our Nation's history, but with an abiding faith and steadfast courage, we humbly bow our heads in recognition of Divine guidance, and gratefully acknowledge the many blessings bestowed.
Our hearts are full of sympathy and understanding for those in conquered lands who are experiencing untold suffering and misery under the yoke of barbarian foes. We rejoice that this Nation of ours, through its gigantic effort and by its unconquerable spirit, is able to hold out to them deliverance and freedom from the unspeakable oppression which they have been and now are enduring.
The present world crisis brings us to another turning point in the history of civilization, and I believe that total victory can come only through religious faith and religious living. Therefore, let us first give thanks for the past before imploring assistance for the present and future. Let us hope and pray. Let us fight and work. Let us live and die that the God-given rights of humanity may not perish from the earth.
The people of Delaware, I am sure, will continue cheerfully to give up the material things that must be sacrificed in order that the spiritual blessings may be secured. Our hearts reach out to every home whose sons, brothers and fathers have multiplied our manpower for it is deeply significant that only through the predominance of American arms can anything except enslavement and death ensue.
We have abundant cause for sincere Thanksgiving. Let us then give thanks for the privileges and blessings we have enjoyed; for our own personal safety and comfort; for the free, beautiful Nation in which we live; and humbly seek the guidance of the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our future welfare and happiness.
NOW, THEREFORE, in recognition of the noble precedent established by our forebears, I, Walter W. Bacon, Governor of the State of Delaware, do designate and proclaim
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER TWENTY-FIFTH, 1943,
AS A DAY OF PRAYER
In THANKSGIVING
that our Armed Forces, with unbounded determination, have been and are defending the cause of freedom for ourselves and our world neighbors, and request that the day be observed through appropriate meditation in family circles and around festive boards in our homes, and through services in churches and other places of assembly where our people may gather for united expressions of gratitude to God at Whose hand these many blessings have come to us this year, and to Whom we prayerfully look for an early restoration of peace among the nations of the earth, and for the preservation and perpetuation of our ideals and institutions.
In appreciation of this great Republic of ours, let our Nation's Flag be displayed in all suitable places throughout this Thanksgiving Day.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Great Seal of the State of Delaware, at Dover, this fifteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and forty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the one hundred and sixty-eighth.
(GREAT SEAL)
By the Governor:
WALTER W. BACON
WILLIAM J. STOREY, Secretary of State.