American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2008 – President Bush issued a proclamation to honor all who are serving or have served in the U.S. armed forces.
Bush issued his Veterans Day proclamation Oct. 31.
The proclamation reads:
“On Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the men and women who in defense of our freedom have bravely worn the uniform of the United States.
“From the fields and forests of war-torn Europe to the jungles of Southeast Asia, from the deserts of Iraq to the mountains of Afghanistan, brave patriots have protected our nation's ideals, rescued millions from tyranny and helped spread freedom around the globe. America’s veterans answered the call when asked to protect our nation from some of the most brutal and ruthless tyrants, terrorists and militaries the world has ever known. They stood tall in the face of grave danger and enabled our nation to become the greatest force for freedom in human history. Members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard have answered a high calling to serve and have helped secure America at every turn.
“Our country is forever indebted to our veterans for their quiet courage and exemplary service. We also remember and honor those who laid down their lives in freedom's defense. These brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice for our benefit. On Veterans Day, we remember these heroes for their valor, their loyalty and their dedication. Their selfless sacrifices continue to inspire us today as we work to advance peace and extend freedom around the world.
“With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service members have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has provided that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor America's veterans.
“Now, therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2008, as Veterans Day and urge all Americans to observe November 9 through November 15, 2008, as National Veterans Awareness Week. I encourage all Americans to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of our veterans through ceremonies and prayers. I call upon federal, state, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to support and participate in patriotic activities in their communities. I invite civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, businesses, unions and the media to support this national observance with commemorative expressions and programs.”
A horse drawn caisson carries the casket of US army major Alan Greg Rogers to his burial service at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. Photograph: Win McNamee/Getty images
4 comments:
Hey lady, we're all good over on my blog now that I kicked Anonymous to the curb. His questioning/harassing YOU did me in. You are a precious commodity in my eyes, and I'm not going to let anybody question you, or your children's faith in our country. And no worries...you can play "top commenter" games on my blog any time you want!!!!! :)
julie..thank you for your kind words. I'm so glad you stopped by and I will be by to read you soon!
Lets just hope this isn't the last time that our vets are honored.
grandpa... Your statement is true and scary. We can only pray our President Elect holds our Veterans in his heart and mind, and never forgets it is because of veterans, he was voted into our Oval Office! We all must remember our freedoms are not free!
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