[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 122, 110th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8234--APR. 8, 2008

Proclamation 8234 of April 8, 2008
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2008
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
America is blessed to have brave men and women willing to step forward
to defend our freedoms and keep us safe. The members of the United
States Armed Forces have proudly held fast against determined and
ruthless enemies, protected our citizens from harm, and freed millions
from oppression. On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, we
pay tribute to the courageous and selfless individuals who were taken
captive while serving the cause of peace and securing liberty across the
globe.
America's former prisoners of war set an example of vision, valor, and
unshakeable love of country that inspires our citizens. Through
unspeakable conditions, they upheld their oath to defend America with
honor and dignity. Their extraordinary spirit, patriotism, and resolve
helped defeat tyranny and build democratic and just societies, enabling
decent men and women around the world to live in freedom.
Our Nation is extremely proud of our former prisoners of war, and we owe
them and their families a debt we can never fully repay. On National
Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, we honor our country's heroes
who were prisoners of war, recognize their sacrifice, and express our
deepest gratitude to those who helped write a more hopeful chapter in
our history.
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, 2008, as National
Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. I call upon the people of the
United States to join me in honoring the service and sacrifices of all
of America's former prisoners of war. I call upon Fed






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122 STAT. 5291

eral, 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 eighth day of
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
GEORGE W. BUSH