Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Veterans Day 2008


October 31, 2008

A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

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 (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) 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.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.


GEORGE W. BUSH


Note 1: You can read the original Veterans Day Proclamation issued by President Eisenhower in 1954 here.

Note 2: Downloadable files of the official 2008 Veterans Day poster are available at the Department of Veterans Affairs web site (in various resolutions, up to an image suitable for printing at 11 x 14 inches, 300dpi).

Note 3: Sticky post (remains on top all day)... scroll down for updates.

16 comments:

  1. Buck, Thanks for serving your country. I am always humbled by our veterans and the sacrifices they made.

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  2. Mornin' Buck! Take some quality "you" time today. You've earned it.

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  3. Thanks, Jenn... I'll be right over! ;-)

    Andy: Thanks, Bud... most appreciated! And the same to you, too!!

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  4. Buck - my deepest and most humble thanks for your service. And more thanks for being a role model to your children and for their current service.

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  5. Happy Veterans Day, Buck. To you, your son, and all who helped (or are continuing to help) to protect us and keep us free - God Bless You.

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  6. Thanks, Kris and Jim. Most appreciated!

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  7. Back at you Buck....enjoy the day!

    prh
    14th SPS Nha Trang AB 1969
    377th SPS TSN(Saigon) AB 1970

    Kick back with a cold one and a smoke....Enjoy the day!

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  8. Today is the day for the ones serving and who came home. My service was at the end of the Vietnam era and never had to go in harm's way. Was in Germany for the final Yom Kippor exercise, it was a bit exciting for a day or two til our Jewish friends took care of business.
    Thanks to all who served in whatever role or station.

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  9. Pat sez: Kick back with a cold one and a smoke....Enjoy the day!

    Ah... would that I could. It's too danged chilly today to enjoy a cigar (I only smoke outside), but I WILL have a beer. Or three. ;-)

    SantaJim sez: Today is the day for the ones serving and who came home. My service was at the end of the Vietnam era and never had to go in harm's way. Was in Germany for the final Yom Kippor exercise, it was a bit exciting for a day or two til our Jewish friends took care of business.
    Thanks to all who served in whatever role or station.


    Your point is well taken about the living, SJ. I often wonder why today's (formal) celebrations are held at Arlington... seems inappropriate, to me. Arlington for Memorial Day, yes. Veterans Day, not so much.

    Thanks for your service!

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  10. Hope you had a great day Buck! Thank you for your service to our country.

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  11. Veteran's Day - This is the most under-celebrated holiday we have and the one that should get so much more attention than it does. To all of the Veterans who have touched my life - I love you and I thank you - to the rest, I will ever be grateful.

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  12. Many thanks to you Buck, and the wonderful service you did for our country. Bless you!

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  13. Alison, Cynthia and Michelle: thank you.

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  14. Thank you, Buck. And to your sons and my father and all veterans!

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  15. Thanks, Jenny... and a salute to your father, as well!

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Just be polite... that's all I ask.