By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
On April 14, 1865, a day marked by dual significance, President Abraham Lincoln enacted legislation that birthed the United States Secret Service. This momentous decision coincidentally fell on the very day Lincoln’s life was cut short by an assassin’s bullet. It’s a cruel twist of fate that the agency he founded for the protection of American currency was ill-equipped to protect its own creator. Initially, the Secret Service’s mission was to combat rampant counterfeiting, a dire threat to the fragile economy emerging from the ashes of the Civil War. It wasn’t until July 5, 1865, that the agency commenced operations under the auspices of the Treasury Department.
As the years passed, the agency’s responsibilities grew. Following the assassination attempt on William McKinley in 1901, Congress assigned the Secret Service the crucial task of safeguarding the President of the United States. What started as a monetary defense evolved into a robust commitment to protect the nation’s highest office. Today, the Secret Service is recognized as one of the most prestigious law enforcement agencies in the country, characterized by its unwavering integrity and its iconic motto: “Worthy of Trust and Confidence.”
Currently, over 8,000 dedicated men and women comprise the ranks of the Secret Service, all united by a singular mission that demands unparalleled excellence, resilience, and loyalty. Their protective mantle encompasses not only the President and Vice President but also their families, former presidents, major presidential candidates, and visiting dignitaries from around the globe. Their jurisdiction covers the White House, the Vice President’s residence, major national security events, and critical locations internationally. To qualify for this esteemed role, agents undergo rigorous and intensive training, ensuring that only the most disciplined and determined individuals are entrusted with this sacred responsibility. Even in the face of peril, these defenders maintain their composure, confronting threats with resolute courage, exceptional skill, and the quiet strength that epitomizes the finest in American law enforcement.
The United States Secret Service has served as an unwavering barrier against violence and chaos, ever-ready to respond in times of crisis to protect our national leadership. Agents have bravely placed themselves in harm’s way during attempted assassinations of notable figures, including President-elect Franklin Roosevelt in 1933, President Harry Truman in 1950, President Gerald Ford in 1975, President Ronald Reagan in 1981, and even during two attempts on my life in 2024. In each instance, their actions were marked by split-second bravery and a profound dedication to their duty. I have witnessed their valor firsthand — they remain calm under duress, fearless in confronting danger, and wholly devoted to their mission. These historical moments are just a glimpse of the countless lives safeguarded in silence, with sacrifices made that often go unrecognized. To risk one’s life for another is the pinnacle of selflessness, echoing the highest ideals of patriotism and humanity. I am eternally grateful to the agents who lay everything on the line to shield me from harm.
As we celebrate the 160th anniversary of the United States Secret Service, our Nation collectively honors the heroism, discipline, and unwavering commitment of every agent who has risked their life for the sake of our Republic, our freedoms, and the noble constitutional order we cherish. Their courage serves as a powerful reminder of the American spirit, undeterred in the face of danger and steadfast in the quest for liberty.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 5, 2025, as the 160th Anniversary of the United States Secret Service. I urge all Americans to extend our profound gratitude and respect to the 8,000 employees of the United States Secret Service, operating from more than 150 offices both domestically and internationally, who stand on the front lines to ensure the safety and security of our communities while upholding the sovereignty and strength of our Republic.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
