    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8598--NOV. 5, 2010

    Proclamation 8598 of November 5, 2010
    Veterans Day, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    On Veterans Day, we come together to pay tribute to the men and women
    who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Americans
    across this land commemorate the patriots who have risked their lives to
    preserve the liberty of our Nation, the families who support them, and
    the heroes no longer with us. It is not our weapons or our technology
    that make us the most advanced military in the world; it is the
    unparalleled spirit, skill, and devotion of our troops. As we honor our
    veterans with ceremonies on this day, let our actions strengthen the
    bond between a Nation and her warriors.
    In an unbroken line of valor stretching across more than two centuries,
    our veterans have charged into harm's way, sometimes making the ultimate
    sacrifice, to protect the freedoms that have blessed America. Whether
    Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard, they are our Nation's finest
    citizens, and they have shown the heights to which Americans can rise
    when asked and inspired to do so. Our courageous troops in Iraq,
    Afghanistan, and around the globe have earned their place alongside
    previous generations of great Americans, serving selflessly, tour after
    tour, in conflicts spanning nearly a decade.
    Long after leaving the uniform behind, many veterans continue to serve
    our country as public servants and mentors, parents and community
    leaders. They have added proud chapters to the story of America, not

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    only on the battlefield, but also in communities from coast to coast.
    They have built and shaped our Nation, and it is our solemn promise to
    support our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen as
    they return to their homes and families.
    America's sons and daughters have not watched over her shores or her
    citizens for public recognition, fanfare, or parades. They have
    preserved our way of life with unwavering patriotism and quiet courage,
    and ours is a debt of honor to care for them and their families. These
    obligations do not end after their time of service, and we must fulfill
    our sacred trust to care for our veterans after they retire their
    uniforms.
    As a grateful Nation, we are humbled by the sacrifices rendered by our
    service members and their families out of the deepest sense of service
    and love of country. On Veterans Day, let us remember our solemn
    obligations to our veterans, and recommit to upholding the enduring
    principles that our country lives for, and that our fellow citizens have
    fought and died for.
    With respect for and in recognition of the contributions our service men
    and women have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world,
    the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each
    year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor our Nation's
    veterans.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2010, as Veterans Day. I
    encourage all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our
    veterans through appropriate public ceremonies and private prayers. I
    call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the
    United States and to participate in patriotic activities in their
    communities. I call on all Americans, including civic and fraternal
    organizations, places of worship, schools, and communities to support
    this day with commemorative expressions and programs.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of
    November, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    fifth.
    BARACK OBAMA