    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [May 19, 1995]
    [Pages 719-720]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Armed Forces Day, 1995
    May 19, 1995

        Every year on this day our citizens join in honoring you, the men
    and women who wear our nation's uniform. You risk your very lives to
    defend the liberties we hold dear. Americans everywhere recognize your
    dedication and professionalism, and all of us feel profound respect,
    pride, and appreciation for our Armed Forces.
        As we commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the Allied victory in
    World War II, everyone on Earth should pause to express heartfelt
    gratitude to those who fought and sacrificed in that awful conflict. We
    do no greater honor to the memory of those lost in World War II than to
    continue their fight against tyranny and oppression everywhere.
        Each of you has stood to carry on that fight in this past year. You
    have been called to serve in lands far from home. You have brought
    freedom and security to our friends and allies and humanitarian aid to
    those in need. In Haiti, you helped restore democracy; in the Persian
    Gulf, you faced down the forces of aggression;

    [[Page 720]]

    and in central Africa, you delivered lifesaving food, water, and
    medicine. Throughout the year, you maintained the security of our
    country at home and at posts around the world.
        Whether you serve in the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, the Marine
    Corps, or the Coast Guard, your standards of excellence and your
    selfless service are models for all Americans. I am proud to salute you
    for your many extraordinary accomplishments.

                                                                Bill Clinton

    Note: Armed Forces Day was observed on May 20.