Press Release - Saturday, February 23, 2008
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Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs' salutes African American Veterans
CHICAGO - In conjunction with African American History Month, the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (IDVA) honored African American Veterans for their service. Governor Rod R. Blagojevich issued a proclamation declaring today as African American Veterans Recognition Day in Illinois.
"We honor and give thanks to all those who rose above adversity and answered the call of duty when their nation needed them," Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Director Tammy Duckworth said. "African American service members and Veterans have honorably served our country thought our nation's history and continue to bravely serve in all branches of the United States Armed Forces today. We are proud to salute the accomplishments made by these patriotic men and women."
The text of the Governor's proclamation follows:
WHEREAS, in the face of great adversity, African American men and women have displayed a history of patriotism by courageously serving in all branches of the United States Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, African American men and women have served and distinguished themselves in times of peace as well as during every major conflict since the birth of our nation; and
WHEREAS, certain African American groups such as: Company E, 4th United States Colored Infantry; the Tuskegee Airmen; the Montford Point Marines; the 555th Airborne Battalion; the 761st Tank Battalion; and the "Golden Thirteen" have become historical icons in American military history; and
WHEREAS, African American men and women continue to bravely serve in all branches of the United States Armed Forces and carry on a great legacy of patriotism; and
WHEREAS, the State of Illinois is proud to salute African-American Veterans on February 23, 2008, to acknowledge the numerous accomplishments made by these brave men and women who have served their country through military service:
THEREFORE, I, Rod R. Blagojevich, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby proclaim February 23, 2008 as AFRICAN AMERICAN VETERANS RECOGNITION DAY in Illinois, and encourage all citizens to honor those veterans who have courageously served their country.
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