The U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC), in order to recognize the September 11 Patriot Day in the United States, has organized a number of activities to commemorate the day.    "As you are aware, the one-year anniversary of the September 11, 2001 tragedy is fast approaching," said Rick Mack, USOC Managing Director of Human Resources. "The United States Olympic Committee would like to honor those who lost their lives, those who fought to save lives, and those who were left behind as a result of the unforgettable events of September 11."    In rememberance, the USOC will do the following on September 11, 2002:    1) Light the Olympic torch (on the top of the Visitor Center at the Colorado Springs USOTC) from 6:00 a.m. on 9/11/02 to 6:00 a.m. on 9/12/02.    2) Observe two minutes of silence throughout the complex at 8:46 a.m. (per President Bush, except  it will be MDT) on 9/11/02. Employees will participate voluntarily in their offices or on the torch plaza (top of the Visitor Center).    3) Seven white balloons will be released from the torch plaza after the two minutes of silence. The balloons will represent the four airplanes, the two World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon.    4)  In  accordance with a U.S. Presidential proclamation, the flags will be at half-mast.    5)  The  Resident  Athletes will be holding a candlelight vigil adjacent to the  front  gate  of the OTC at 8:00 p.m. All members of the Olympic Family are invited to attend. Candles will be provided.    Mack gave special thanks to Erica Hutchinson for her efforts in putting the program together.    In the announcement to the Olympic family about the activities, the USOC also distributed the following Patriot Day Proclamation from President Bush.  __________________________________________________________    Patriot Day, 2002 by the President of the United States of America a Proclamation    On this first observance of Patriot Day, we remember and honor those who perished in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. We will not forget the events of that terrible morning nor will we forget how Americans responded in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in the skies over Pennsylvania -- with heroism and selflessness; with compassion and courage; and with prayer and hope. We will always remember our collective obligation to ensure that justice is done, that freedom prevails, and that the principles upon which our Nation was founded endure.    Inspired by the heroic sacrifices of our firefighters, rescue and law enforcement personnel, military service members, and other citizens, our Nation found unity, focus, and strength. We found healing in the national outpouring of compassion for those lost, as tens of millions of Americans participated in moments of silence, candlelight vigils, and religious services. From the tragedy of September 11 emerged a stronger Nation, renewed by a spirit of national pride and a true love of country.    We are a people dedicated to the triumph of freedom and democracy over evil and tyranny. The heroic stories of the first responders who gave their all to save others strengthened our resolve. And our Armed Forces have pursued the war against terrorism in Afghanistan and else-where with valor and skill. Together with our coalition partners, they have achieved success.    Americans also have fought back against terror by choosing to overcome evil with good. By loving their neighbors as they would like to be loved, countless citizens have answered the call to help others. They have contributed to relief efforts, improved homeland security in their communities, and volunteered their time to aid those in need. This spirit of service continues to grow as thousands have joined the newly established USA Freedom Corps, committing themselves to changing America one heart at a time through the momentum of millions of acts of decency and kindness.    Those whom we lost last September 11 will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts and in the history of our Nation. As we mark the first anniversary of that tragic day, we remember their sacrifice; and we commit ourselves to honoring their memory by pursuing peace and justice in the world and security at home. By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the Congress has authorized and requested the President to designate September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day."    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2002, as Patriot Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities, including remembrance services and candlelight vigils. I also call upon the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Patriot Day. Further, I encourage all Americans to display the flag at half-staff from their homes on that day and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. eastern daylight time, or another appropriate commemorative time, to honor the innocent victims who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty- seventh.    GEORGE W. BUSH