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 they are 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, at the end of World War I, November 11 became known as “Armistice Day” commemorating the end of the conflict at the eleventh hour at the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Congress changed Armistice Day to “Veterans Day” on June 1, 1954; and
WHEREAS, on Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the men and women who, in defense of our freedom, have bravely worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, we salute their services, honor their sacrifices, and honor them for supporting this nation in every hour of need. And we acknowledge that freedom’s cost continues long after the guns fall silent. Many of our Veterans bear the disabilities and scars of military service. The families of those who never returned from their service live always with a profound sense of loss. It is our duty to remember what our Veterans have done and to uphold our commitments to them and their families; and
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 November 2022 as
CNMI VETERANS AND MILITARY FAMILIES MONTH
and the week of November 4-11, 2022 as
CNMI VETERANS WEEK
I encourage everyone in our community to acknowledge and honor the service, sacrifices, and contributions of Veterans and military families for what they have done and for what they do every day to support our islands and our great Nation. On Veterans Day, we remember these heroes for their valor, their loyalty, and their dedication.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand on this 10th day of November 2022.
/s/
RALPH DLG. TORRES
Governor
###
