Donald Trump declares his inauguration day National Day of Patriotic Devotion
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United States President Donald Trump has officially declared the day of his inauguration the National Day of Patriotic Devotion as one of his first executive orders.
In paperwork published by the Federal Register, Mr Trump proclaimed it would take place on January 20 "in order to strengthen our bonds to each other and to our country — and to renew the duties of Government to the people".
"A new national pride stirs the American soul and inspires the American heart," the order stated.
"We are one people, united by a common destiny and a shared purpose.
"Freedom is the birthright of all Americans, and to preserve that freedom we must maintain faith in our sacred values and heritage."
White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer had mentioned in a tweet that the move would take place the day after Mr Trump's inauguration, but it did not formally appear in the Federal Register until three days later.
The order reflected the theme of patriotism in Mr Trump's inaugural address.
"At the bedrock of our politics will be a total allegiance to the United States of America, and through our loyalty to our country, we will rediscover our loyalty to each other," he had said.
"When you open your heart to patriotism, there is no room for prejudice."
Former president Barack Obama had previously declared the date the National Day of Renewal and Reconciliation after his inauguration in 2009.
Topics: world-politics, us-elections, united-states
