Governor's Proclamations Honor U.S. Armed Forces, Merchant Mariners

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - Governor Ted Kulongoski has proclaimed two days in May to commemorate and recognize the service contributions of all members of the U.S. Armed Forces and America's Merchant Mariners.

Kulongoski has proclaimed May 20th as Armed Forces Day in Oregon to honor all Oregonians currently serving in the military. In 1950, President Harry S. Truman convinced Congress to establish Armed Forces Day to encourage Americans to express appreciation for the nation's military forces.

"The courageous spirit of the thousands of Oregon men and women voluntarily serving in all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces around the world is a testament to their resolve to preserve freedom here and abroad," said Jim Willis, Director, Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs.

To recognize the valuable service of the American Merchant Marine, the Governor has designated May 22nd as Maritime Day in Oregon.

Throughout recent history, merchant mariners have promoted and helped to increase commerce in the Northwest. During wartime, U.S. Merchant Mariners placed their lives on the line while serving as a vital link in America's military forces, providing needed supplies and equipment to those on the front lines.

The U.S. Congress first designated May 22nd as National Maritime Day in 1933. A Presidential proclamation is issued annually calling for its observance.