National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 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 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
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.