Gov. Palin's Memorial Day Proclamation

WHEREAS, Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 to remember soldiers who died in the Civil War. Since then, our nation has set aside this day each year, for the past 141 years, to honor the memory of American patriots who have fallen in service to our country; and

WHEREAS, from the soldiers’ bravery at Gettysburg to the dedicated troops serving today, our military has confronted dangers, opposed tyranny, and offered hope and opportunity to generations of Americans and those around the world; and

WHEREAS, these courageous men and women have kept the torch of freedom burning brightly by defending our liberty and upholding the promise of our democracy. In their ultimate sacrifice, we see the goodness and courage of an entire nation, and we are reminded that the blessings of freedom demand the high calling of selflessness and great sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, Alaska is blessed to be the home of many military members from all branches of service. While we mourn the loss of all of our lost heroes, we must also celebrate their heroic lives and the better world they helped to shape;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sarah Palin, Governor of the state of Alaska, do hereby proclaim May 25, 2009 as:

Memorial Day

in Alaska, and ask all Alaskans to honor the legacy of our national heroes by remaining committed to America’s ideals and steadfast in our support of our veterans and those in uniform today. I also encourage you to remember the men and women who died selflessly defending our freedoms and American ideals.

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