Governor Proclaims Memorial Day 2023

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, more than 720,000 military veterans and their families live in North Carolina, the fifth-largest military presence in the United States; and

WHEREAS, North Carolina is the proud home to military installations serving the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Space Force, and is also the proud home to nearly 11,000 soldiers and airmen who serve in the North Carolina National Guard; 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 all Americans who have given their lives in military service; and

WHEREAS, we owe our fallen servicemembers and their loved ones a debt of gratitude and respect for their honor, valor, selflessness, and sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, in observance of Memorial Day, communities throughout our nation will join together to honor these fallen heroes; and

WHEREAS, on May 29, flags statewide will be lowered to half-mast in remembrance of those who died in service to our nation and in respect for their dedication to freedom, duty, and bravery;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 29, 2023, as “MEMORIAL DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.