— SALUTING OUR MEN AND WOMEN IN UNIFORM —

This Saturday, 19 May, is Armed Forces Day, first set aside in 1949 by President Harry Truman to recognize the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense and to acknowledge the extraordinary dedication of America's uniformed Patriots standing ready in harm's way at home and around the world.

In the words of President Dwight Eisenhower, "It is fitting and proper that we devote one day each year to paying special tribute to those whose constancy and courage constitute one of the bulwarks guarding the freedom of this nation and the peace of the free world."

Since the opening shots of the American Revolution on 19 April 1775, American Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coastguardsmen have plowed the ground for freedom. We remain the proud and the free because they remain on post today. For this, we, the American People, offer our heartfelt thanks.