Honoring Veterans of the United States Armed Forces who have bravely served our country and protected our freedom and way of life in accordance with the observation of Veterans Day on November 11, 2012.

WHEREAS, November 11, 1918, marked the end of World War I and one year later on the same date was proclaimed by President Woodrow Wilson as Armistice Day; and

WHEREAS, On May 13, 1938, the United States Congress approved the Act declaring the 11th of November each year to be a legal holiday; and

WHEREAS, On June 1, 1954, the word Armistice was removed and replaced with the word Veteran to honor all who have served in the United States Armed Forces during times of war and peace; and

WHEREAS, For more than 200 years, men and women from all walks of life have taken up arms and sworn an oath to support and defend the principles upon which our country was founded; and

WHEREAS, We can never fully repay our debt of gratitude to those brave men and women who served, were wounded or even died in battle; and

WHEREAS, The unwavering commitment of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coastguardsmen has preserved and protected our freedoms and saved many millions around the world from tyranny; and

WHEREAS, The United States Army and United State Marine Corps were founded in Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting that all Philadelphians honor America's military veterans whose service and sacrifice has allowed us to enjoy freedom and liberty; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby honors Veterans of the United States Armed Forces who have bravely served our country and protected our freedom and way of life in accordance with the observation of Veterans Day on November 11, 2012.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the United Veterans Council as sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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