National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 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 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.