[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8799--APR. 9, 2012

Proclamation 8799 of April 9, 2012

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For more than 200 years, members of our Armed Forces have upheld an oath
to protect and defend. In times of war, generations have answered our
country's call with courage and valor, braving the peril of combat and
pressing onward in the face of tremendous adversity. Their extraordinary
service reflects our highest ideals, and their sacrifice will forever
live on in our national memory. On National Former Prisoner of War
Recognition Day, we pay solemn tribute to those patriots who gave their
freedom to preserve our own.
Thousands of America's sons and daughters have suffered unspeakably as
captives in foreign lands. Many prisoners of war experienced physical
torture and profound anguish, subjected to inhumane treatment and cut
off from their comrades, their country, and their loved ones. Some would
never return. Yet, in the direst circumstances, these service members
demonstrated indomitable courage and unbreakable resolve. They stood
fast for what they believed in, making immeasurable sacrifices for the
millions they protected. At home, spouses, children, parents, and
friends called upon that same spirit of perseverance to sustain them
through long periods of prayer and uncertainty.
When he chronicled the experiences of our GIs during World War II, Ernie
Pyle wrote that their world can never be known to the rest of us. Though
the sacrifices they made and the burdens they bore may defy our full
understanding, it is our moral obligation to keep faith with our men and
women in uniform, our veterans, and their families--to honor their
service through the support of a grateful Nation. Today, we recognize
heroes who endured one of war's most tragic costs. For them, and for all
who have served, let us rededicate ourselves to fulfilling the sacred
trust we share with all those who have worn the uniform of the United
States of America.
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


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9, 2012, as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. I call upon all
Americans to observe this day of remembrance by honoring all American
prisoners of war, our service members, and our veterans. 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 ninth day of April,
in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.
BARACK OBAMA