National Former POW Recognition Day

WHEREAS, for more than 200 years, members of our Armed Forces have upheld an oath to protect and defend; and

WHEREAS, in times of war, generations have answered our country’s call with courage and valor, braving the peril of combat and pressing onward in the face of tremendous adversity; their extraordinary service reflects our highest ideals, and their sacrifice will forever live on in our national memory; and

WHEREAS, on National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, we pay solemn tribute to those patriots who gave their freedom to preserve our own; and

WHEREAS, thousands of America’s sons and daughters have suffered unspeakably as captives in foreign lands; many prisoners of war experienced physical torture and profound anguish, subjected to inhumane treatment and cut off from their comrades, their country and their loved ones with some never returning home; and

WHEREAS, in the direst circumstances, these service members demonstrated indomitable courage and unbreakable resolve; they stood fast for what they believed in, making immeasurable sacrifices for the millions they protected; at home, spouses, children, parents and friends called upon that same spirit of perseverance to sustain them through long periods of prayer and uncertainty; and

WHEREAS, when Ernie Pyle chronicled the experiences of our GIs during World War II, he wrote that their world can never be known to the rest of us; though the sacrifices they made and the burdens they bore may defy our full understanding, it is our moral obligation to keep faith with our men and women in uniform, our veterans and their families – to honor their service through the support of a grateful nation; and

WHEREAS, today, we recognize heroes who endured one of war’s most tragic costs; let us rededicate ourselves to fulfilling the sacred trust we share with all those who have worn the uniform of the United States of America:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim April 9, 2013, as

National Former POW

Recognition Day

in the state of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 9th day of April 2013.

                        

Robert Bentley, Governor