[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8543--JULY 26, 2010

Proclamation 8543 of July 26, 2010
National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, 2010
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Today we celebrate the signing of the Military Armistice Agreement at
Panmunjom and we honor our servicemembers who fought and died for
freedom and democracy in the Korean War. This year marks the 60th
anniversary of the start of the Korean War and the birth of an enduring
friendship between the United States and the Republic of Korea that is
stronger today than ever before. Our alliance is rooted in shared
sacrifice, common values, mutual interest, and respect, and this
partnership is vital to peace and stability in Asia and the world.
Since our Nation's founding, the United States has relied on our Armed
Forces to ensure our safety and security at home, and to protect lives
and liberties around the globe. When Communist armies poured across the
38th parallel, threatening the very survival of South Korea, American
troops braved unforgiving conditions and rallied to the young republic's
defense. Tens of thousands of our Nation's servicemembers lost their
lives, and many more were wounded, declared missing in action, or taken
as prisoners of war. The courageous service and ultimate sacrifices of
these patriots and our allied combatants safeguarded a free government
and vibrant economy in South Korea, forging a bond between our people
that stands strong today.
As we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War
and the eventual conclusion of hostilities at Panmunjom, let us raise
our flags high to honor the service and valor of our veterans, to
reflect on the principles for which they fought, and to reaffirm the
unshakeable bond between South Korea and our Nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 27, 2010, as
National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day. I call upon all Americans to
observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities that honor
our distinguished Korean War veterans.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of
July, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
BARACK OBAMA