Armed Forces Day

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

Armed Forces Day

WHEREAS, on August 31, 1949, Armed Forces Day was created to honor all active-duty personnel of the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard, thereby fostering greater public understanding of the integrated strength and mission of the nation's armed forces; and

WHEREAS, Armed Forces Day has since served as a national expression of gratitude for the courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by the men and women who serve in uniform, whether stationed within the United States or deployed around the world in defense of freedom, stability, and the values that define our nation; and

WHEREAS, the service of America's armed forces is fundamental to the preservation of the freedoms enshrined in the Constitution and ensures that these rights remain secure for future generations; and

WHEREAS, through their dedication, discipline, and readiness, members of the armed forces protect the Commonwealth and the nation from threats foreign and domestic, uphold international peace and security, and defend the principles of justice, human dignity, and democratic governance that form the foundation of our way of life; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia is home to a significant population of active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard personnel, veterans, and military families, whose presence enriches our communities and whose service reflects the highest traditions of duty and honor; and

WHEREAS, the families of service members also make substantial and often unrecognized sacrifices, providing steadfast support through long deployments, frequent relocations, and the inherent uncertainties of military life, and demonstrating resilience, devotion, and strength that are essential to the readiness and morale of our armed forces; and

WHEREAS, on May 16, 2026, Virginians will join communities across the country in honoring and recognizing the dedication, bravery, and sacrifices of our military personnel and veterans, acknowledging the profound contributions they make to the safety, prosperity, and enduring strength of the Commonwealth and the nation;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize May 16, 2026, as ARMED FORCES DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.