Presidential Proclamation
Veterans Day
On Veterans Day, we come together to pay tribute to the men and
women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces.
Americans across this land commemorate the patriots who have risked
their lives to preserve the liberty of our Nation, the families who
support them, and the heroes no longer with us. It is not our weapons or
our technology that make us the most advanced military in the world; it
is the unparalleled spirit, skill, and devotion of our troops. As we
honor our veterans with ceremonies on this day, let our actions
strengthen the bond between a Nation and her warriors.
In an unbroken line of valor stretching across more than two centuries,
our veterans have charged into harm's way, sometimes making the ultimate
sacrifice, to protect the freedoms that have blessed America. Whether
Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard, they are our Nation's finest
citizens, and they have shown the heights to which Americans can rise
when asked and inspired to do so. Our courageous troops in Iraq,
Afghanistan, and around the globe have earned their place alongside
previous generations of great Americans, serving selflessly, tour after
tour, in conflicts spanning nearly a decade.
Long after leaving the uniform behind, many veterans continue to serve
our country as public servants and mentors, parents and community
leaders. They have added proud chapters to the story of America, not
only on the battlefield, but also in communities from coast to coast.
They have built and shaped our Nation, and it is our solemn promise to
support our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen as
they return to their homes and families.
America's sons and daughters have not watched over her shores or her
citizens for public recognition, fanfare, or parades. They have
preserved our way of life with unwavering patriotism and quiet courage,
and ours is a debt of honor to care for them and their families. These
obligations do not end after their time of service, and we must fulfill
our sacred trust to care for our veterans after they retire their
uniforms.
As a grateful Nation, we are humbled by the sacrifices rendered by our
service members and their families out of the deepest sense of service
and love of country. On Veterans Day,let us remember our solemn
obligations to our veterans, and recommit to upholding the enduring
principles that our country lives for, and that our fellow citizens have
fought and died for.
With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service men
and women have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world,
the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each
year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor our Nation's
veterans.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2010, as Veterans Day. I
encourage all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our
veterans through appropriate public ceremonies and private prayers. I
call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the
United States and to participate in patriotic activities in their
communities. I call on all Americans, including civic and fraternal
organizations, places of worship, schools, and communities to support
this day with commemorative expressions and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of
November, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-fifth.
BARACK OBAMA
Photo by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs |
