26-60th Anniversary End of WWII
PROCLAMATION NO. 2005-26
WHEREAS Sixty years ago, the flags of freedom unfurled across Europe and Asia as victorious American and Allied troops brought World War II to an end. Freedom prevailed when millions
were liberated from oppression and tyranny was replaced by democracy; and
WHEREAS The years of World War II were a hard, heroic, and gallant time in the life of our country. When it mattered most, a generation of Americans showed the finest qualities of our
Nation and of humanity. More than 16 million Americans served during World War II; and
WHEREAS They earned 464 Medals of Honor, and over 400,000 made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. Millions more supported the war effort at home—caring for the injured and working
in factories to provide supplies to those fighting in distant places like Midway, Normandy, Iwo Jima and Bastogne; and
WHEREAS As the war drew to a close, Americans remained united in support of the vital cause of restoring the liberty of mankind. When the end of the war in Europe was announced on May
8, 1945, hundreds of people rushed to the White House to celebrate the triumph of freedom; and
WHEREAS In the following months, the war in the Pacific was won and a grateful Nation began welcoming home liberty’s heroes. Many who had left America’s farms and cities as young men
and women returned as seasoned veterans ready to finish their education, start families and assume leadership roles in their communities; and
WHEREAS Today, as we wage the war on terror and work to extend peace and freedom around the world, our service men and women follow in the footsteps of our World War II veterans by upholding
the noble tradition of duty, honor and love of country; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY PROCLAIMED, by the power vested in me as
Mayor of the City of Huntsville, Texas that:
2005
be declared:
Observance of the 60th Anniversary of the End of World War II
in Huntsville, Texas, and urge all to mark this observance with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities in honor of the Americans who served in World War II and all those who
supported and contributed their efforts from the home front during this extraordinary time in history.
PROCLAIMED AND SIGNED this the 19th day of July 2005.
_____________________________
J. TURNER, MAYOR