[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 125, 112th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 8652 of April 8, 2011

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2011
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
The men and women of the United States Armed Forces have faced
innumerable challenges while dedicating their lives to the defense of
our liberties. Contending with perilous combat zones, deployment
overseas, and long absences from home, generations of service members
have answered America's call in its hour of need. On National Former
Prisoner of War Recognition Day, a grateful Nation acknowledges a debt
that can never be repaid and honors those who faced the most
unfathomable of challenges with the utmost bravery and conviction.
We pay solemn tribute to those American sons and daughters who have
endured unimaginable hardship at the hands of foreign captors. Often
faced with deplorable physical and mental treatment, the tremendous
personal sacrifice of these warriors exemplifies the highest of ideals--
honor, duty, and selfless service. We also pay tribute to the families
and friends of these service members, who embody the same qualities of
bravery and sacrifice exhibited by their loved ones, and bear a burden
silently measured in sleepless nights and missed birthdays.

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America cherishes those veterans who have returned home after
imprisonment on foreign soil. We remain dedicated to fulfilling the
sacred trust to care for all who have borne the battle. This day and
every day, each of these heroes holds a special place of honor in our
hearts and the well-earned support of a thankful Nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 9, 2011, as
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. I call upon all
Americans to observe this day of remembrance by honoring our service
members, veterans, and all American prisoners of war. I also call upon
Federal, State, and local government officials and 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 eleven, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fifth.
BARACK OBAMA