For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
April 6, 2006
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2006
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America
In every generation, America's Armed Forces have answered the call to duty
with dedication and valor. On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition
Day, we pay tribute to the brave patriots of the United States military who
endured captivity because of war. These heroes sacrificed their personal
liberty to secure a future of freedom for all Americans.
While held as prisoners of war, American POWs have reflected the best of
our country, acting with resourcefulness, bravery, and strength. Former
POWs, such as Corporal Tibor "Ted" Rubin, USA, continue to inspire new
generations to acts of courage and compassion. Liberated by U.S. forces
from a Nazi concentration camp, Rubin enlisted in the Army after
immigrating to the United States. He was captured and held as a POW during
the Korean War even before he became an American citizen. His incredible
bravery and service to his fellow POWs saved many lives and has left a
legacy of hope and honor, and for his heroism, I had the great privilege to
present him our Nation's highest military award, the Medal of Honor.
The sacrifices of those taken as prisoners of war have helped bring
security to American citizens and freedom to the world. With determination
and courage, America's former POWs,
their fallen and missing comrades, and their families have demonstrated the
true spirit of our Nation, and they will never be forgotten.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 9, 2006, as National
Former Prisoner of
War Recognition Day. I call upon the people of the United States to join
me in remembering and honoring the sacrifices of all American prisoners of
war. I call upon Federal, State, and local government officials and
private organizations to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and
activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of April, in
the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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