[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 120, 109th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 7998--APR. 5, 2006
Proclamation 7998 of April 5, 2006
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2006
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
In every generation, America's Armed Forces have answered the call to
duty with dedication and valor. On National Former Prisoner of War
Recognition Day, we pay tribute to the brave patriots of the United
States military who endured captivity because of war. These heroes
sacrificed their personal liberty to secure a future of freedom for all
Americans.
While held as prisoners of war, American POWs have reflected the best of
our country, acting with resourcefulness, bravery, and strength. Former
POWs, such as Corporal Tibor ``Ted'' Rubin, USA, continue to inspire new
generations to acts of courage and compassion. Liberated by U.S. forces
from a Nazi concentration camp, Rubin enlisted in the

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Army after immigrating to the United States. He was captured and held as
a POW during the Korean War even before he became an American citizen.
His incredible bravery and service to his fellow POWs saved many lives
and has left a legacy of hope and honor, and for his heroism, I had the
great privilege to present him our Nation's highest military award, the
Medal of Honor.
The sacrifices of those taken as prisoners of war have helped bring
security to American citizens and freedom to the world. With
determination and courage, America's former POWs, their fallen and
missing comrades, and their families have demonstrated the true spirit
of our Nation, and they will never be forgotten.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 9, 2006, as National
Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. I call upon the people of the
United States to join me in remembering and honoring the sacrifices of
all American prisoners of war. I call upon Federal, State, and local
government officials and private organizations to observe this day with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of April,
in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH