9rortamatt"On Citp of C1 Otgunbo, California
WHEREAS, In 1921, an unknown World War I American soldier was buried in
Arlington National Cemetery, on a hillside overlooking the Potomac and the City
of Washington, D.C., which site became the focal point of reverence for America's
veterans.
WHEREAS, Similar ceremonies occurred earlier in England and France, where an
unknown soldier was buried in each nation's highest place of honor (in England,
Westminster Abbey; in France, the Arc de Triomphe).
WHEREAS, These memorial gestures all took place on November 11, giving universal
recognition to the celebrated ending of World War I fighting at 11 a.m., November
11, 1918 (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). November 11th became
officially known as "Armistice Day" in America in 1926 through a Congressional
resolution, and became a national holiday 12 years later by similar Congressional
action. In 1954 Armistice Day was officially changed to "Veterans Day" by
presidential decree signed by Dwight D, Eisenhower to honor all American
veterans living and dead, in whatever war or period of peace they served.
WHEREAS, On November 11, 2007, as we honor the sacrifices the armed forces have
made to protect our nation, let us remember the 1.7 million women who have
served. Today, more than 218,000 women are on active duty in the five branches
of the military.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Mayor and Members of the City Council of the City of El Segundo,
California, encourage its citizens to observe VETERANS DAYon November 11, 2007 in honor
of the unfailing valor, dignity, and courage of our patriotic men and women in uniform, so that
their spirit and selfless public service may shine brightly in the annals of history.
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