WHEREAS, Memorial Day has been officially celebrated in our Nation since May 1868 as a way of honoring and remembering the sacrifices of those brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country; and
WHEREAS, Memorial Day is perhaps the most important American holiday. No other holidays would be possible without those who died for freedom since the founding of our Nation; and
WHEREAS, We seek to provide a sense of history to our citizens and ensure that younger generations understand the sacrifices made to preserve our liberties; and
WHEREAS, The White House Commission on Remembrance was established by Congress to reach Americans through the National Moment of Remembrance with one simple message —
Don't forget the real meaning of Memorial Day is to honor our fallen;
and
WHEREAS, The National Moment of Remembrance does not replace traditional Memorial Day events; rather it is an act of national unity in honor of our fallen. In this shared remembrance, we connect as Americans; and
WHEREAS
,
The National Moment of Remembrance should be observed citywide on Memorial Day, the Moment is to encourage all citizens of Philadelphia to pause in honor of our fallen. It is a time of remembrance and rededication to the values of our country; and
WHEREAS, I call upon the departments and agencies of Philadelphia to promote this nationwide Memorial Day tribute; now therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA that Memorial Day, May 30, 2005 be proclaimed as a day for all to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance and designate 3 p.m., wherever you are, as a time to pause and unite in remembrance. For all the fallen, let us make this Nation one.
End
May 26, 2005