WHEREAS, since 1868, Americans have observed Memorial Day to honor the sacrifices of the brave men and women who gave their lives in defense of our great nation; and
WHEREAS, North Carolinians have proudly served and continue to serve to protect our freedoms in our nation’s wars and conflicts, beginning with the American Revolution in 1776; and
WHEREAS, today, approximately 120,000 active-duty military personnel and more than 720,000 military veterans and their families live in North Carolina, making us the state with the fifth-largest military presence in the United States; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina’s military history has played an integral role in the development of our state, as well as our nation, and it is our duty to honor our men and women, and all Americans, who have given their lives in service; and
WHEREAS, more than 13,700 North Carolinians died defending our nation in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan, and Iraq; and
WHEREAS, in observance of Memorial Day, communities will gather across our state to grieve and remember these and other brave soldiers, known and unknown; and
WHEREAS, we owe these men and women, and their loved ones, a debt of gratitude and respect for their honor, valor, selflessness, and sacrifice; and
WHEREAS, on May 31, flags statewide will be lowered to half-mast in remembrance of our fallen soldiers and their dedication and commitment to freedom, independence, and the spirit of patriotism;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 31, 2021, as “MEMORIAL DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.