Richard Nixon actually said...

I also do appoint Monday, March 31, 1969 to be a National Day of Mourning throughout the United States.

Meanwhile, I want every reasonable effort made to insure that the Federal Government is an equal opportunity employer.

I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this day of mourning and rededication.

The heads of executive departments, independent establishments, and other Government agencies may excuse from duty for the remainder of his ...