WHEREAS, for generations, the men and women of the Marianas have boldly answered the call to serve with great pride and distinction in our nation’s armed forces. These Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Coast Guardsmen have endured many sacrifices to defend the freedoms that make our islands and nation what it is today.
WHEREAS, behind these brave service members are their families; spouses, children, and parents, who too have had their share of sacrifices; from long deployments to relocation, adjusting to new neighborhoods and schools, having to make new friends, and sometimes putting their careers on hold.
WHEREAS, in this Commonwealth, we have more than 1,000 service members and veterans – each one with their own family and unique story.
WHEREAS, in 1999, the US Congress designated May as National Military Month asking citizens to remember those who gave their lives in defense of freedom and to honor the men and women of all our Armed Forces, who have served and are now serving our country; and
WHEREAS, noting our island heritage and history, we remember the World War II battles fought in the Marianas and the struggles our people overcame.
WHEREAS, fighting for our freedoms came at a great cost with the ultimate sacrifice. Everyone in the Marianas now enjoy such freedoms that owe a lasting debt of gratitude to our Armed Forces.
WHEREAS, every year, the United States President proclaims the third Saturday of each May as Armed Forces Day and invites Governors of the States and Territories to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day within their jurisdiction each year to increase public understanding and appreciation of the Armed Forces of the United States.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RALPH DLG. TORRES, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and Laws of the Commonwealth, do hereby proclaim the third Saturday of each May as
CNMI ARMED FORCES DAY
I encourage everyone in our community to acknowledge and honor the service, sacrifices, and contributions of our Armed Forces and call upon all residents in the CNMI to display the flag of the United States at their homes and place of businesses on Armed Forces Day.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand on this 19th day of May 2022.
/s/
RALPH DLG. TORRES
Governor
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