Veterans Day PDF (printable version) | 2002 Proclamation Index

Proclamation by
Tony Knowles, Governor

On Veterans Day we honor the brave men and women-soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen and women, and others-who have served our nation with patriotism, loyalty, and unmatched resolve. In peace time and in war, at home and on distant shores, from the earliest colonial uprisings born out of a fight for independence, American service men and women from all walks of life have fought for and defended the freedoms we hold dear.

Since Alaska's territorial days, the United States military has had a strong presence here. The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard have long protected Alaska, along with the Alaska Air and Army National Guard, the Alaska State Defense Force, the Naval Militia, and the Alaska Territorial Guard. Alaskans feel a special bond with the men and women who have served in these and other branches of our armed forces.

Today we come together to say "thank you" to over 65,000 Alaska Veterans. Thank you for protecting our freedoms. Thank you for helping preserve our way of life. Thank you for the sacrifices made by you and your families on behalf of all Alaskans-on behalf of all Americans.

As we celebrate veterans today, we must not lose sight of the brave men and women on active duty around the globe. On this day we are grateful for all they are doing to build a world of peace, liberty, and justice, and without terror.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Tony Knowles, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2002, as:

Veterans Day

in Alaska, and ask all Alaskans to please join me in remembering our veterans who preserved our liberties and selflessly strove for peace throughout the world.

DATED: November 5, 2002