Presidential Message on World Blood Donor Day, 2020

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 14, 2020 Presidential Message on World Blood Donor Day, 2020 Every 2 seconds, someone in the United States is in need of a blood transfusion.  On World Blood Donor Day, we thank those individuals who selflessly donate blood to help thousands of hospitals and medical care facilities meet the needs of their patients. Over the past several months, the hardships of the coronavirus have lowered our country’s blood and platelet supply to critical levels, and the need to donate blood has never been more acute.  With more than 30,000 blood drives canceled since mid-March, those battling severe illnesses or those involved in life-threatening accidents could be in particular danger of not being able to receive the vital care they need.  Many of our Nation’s blood banks are operating with depleted stocks, and the majority of them rarely have on hand more than a single day’s supply of Type O blood, which is critical because it can be used to meet the blood needs of any patient.  During this challenging time, let us commit to raising awareness of the lifesaving act of donating blood. I urge all Americans who are healthy and willing to donate blood to do so at a local donation center.  Organizations like the American Red Cross and other blood banks have implemented special protocols to protect donors from possible infection.  Your blood donations can help minimize the harm inflicted by the coronavirus on our country. Today, the First Lady and I send our sincerest gratitude to both blood donors and those countless individuals who help facilitate donations.  These dedicated employees, extraordinary volunteers, and compassionate individuals represent the very best of the American spirit, and our Nation is grateful for your contributions to America’s health and well-being.

Presidential Message on the 245th Birthday of the United States Army

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 14, 2020  Presidential Message on the 245th Birthday of the United States Army On this day in 1775, the Second Continental Congress established the Continental Army to fight for our Nation’s independence.  In the 245 years since, the United States Army has helped defend our freedom all over the world and has made countless contributions to our Nation’s security and the American way of life.  Today, we recognize the United States Army for its many achievements and pay tribute to all those who have served in America’s oldest military branch. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II—a monumental struggle between the forces of freedom and tyranny.  In both the European and Pacific Theaters, the United States Army was critical to the success of the Allied Forces.  The historic triumph came at a somber price, as the Army bore the brunt of the fighting—and human cost—of our Nation’s contribution to victory in the war.  As we celebrate the United States Army’s incredible accomplishments, we also pause to remember those Soldiers who laid down their lives to defend our freedom and protect their fellow Americans. As our Nation continues to face the threat of the coronavirus pandemic, we acknowledge the important role the Army has played in the all-of-America response effort.  The United States Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve Soldiers helped mount a nationwide response to this crisis that truly embodies their motto of “This We’ll Defend.”  In New York, the United States Army Corps of Engineers created and converted alternate care facilities, providing extra space for thousands of patients.  In Washington State, Army healthcare professionals deployed to provide medical support against the emergent virus.  And, in Maryland, researchers with the United States Army Medical Research and Development Command have worked tirelessly to develop coronavirus countermeasures.  From coast to coast, the incredible support of our Soldiers reminds us that no fighting force rivals that of the United States of America. This year, we celebrate our brave Soldiers—active, guard, and reserve, past and present—who are willing to put themselves in harm’s way and make the ultimate sacrifice for our country during times of both war and peace.  As Commander in Chief, I join a grateful Nation in wishing the United States Army a happy 245th birthday.