WHEREAS, Armistice Day was first declared on November 11, 1919, marking a day of remembrance of the end of the First World War; and
WHEREAS, in 1926, the United States Congress first recognized this day as a national holiday, and in 1954 voted to rename the observance as Veterans Day; and
WHEREAS, by signing the Veterans Day resolution, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signaled our nation’s undying gratitude to veterans of all wars of the United States; and
WHEREAS, today, North Carolina is home to more than 800,000 active duty military service members, veterans, and their families, boasting the third largest military presence in the country; and
WHEREAS, throughout history, North Carolina has been a proud supporter of our military and veteran populations, and will continue to maintain this important relationship for generations to come; and
WHEREAS, we take today to show our appreciation and deep respect for the sacrifices of veterans and their families, and to recognize their integrity and valor in defending the principles that define our nation and its people; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages all residents, organizations, and elected leaders to actively provide support to our veterans and their families, today and every day;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2020, as “VETERANS DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.