For many of us, we were raised by our parents and relatives on stories of great bravery and sacrifice in the protection of the freedoms and human rights of many people. In memory of those brave men and women, we must never forget all that World War II not only cost in terms of human life and destruction but in what it means for the heroes who fought successfully against oppression, facism, and racism. And, never forget what it means for the glory of the American flag, no matter how it was flown in combat or in peace.
Now therefore, the following proclamation is issued:
PROCLAMATION from the WAPPINGER TOWN SUPERVISOR on the 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE END OF WORLD WAR II, August 14, 2020
WHEREAS, On August 14, 1945, the people of the United States received word of the end of World War II and greeted the news of the Allies’ noble victory with joyous celebration, humility, and spiritual reflection; and
WHEREAS, over 250 Wappinger residents, served in each of America’s armed forces during World War II and fought in every theater of operations, from the Pacific Islands to North Africa to the European fronts; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Wappingers Falls had more residents per capita serve than any other village in the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Wappinger and Village of Wappingers Falls’ private sector contributed considerably to
the war effort, from the goods manufactured within our factories to the manual labor constructing public works landmarks; and
WHEREAS, the people of the great Town of Wappinger honor those who served in the armed forces during World War II, remember the 4 Wapperians who gave their lives to protect our freedom, and thank the
men and women who supported the war effort on the home front; and
WHEREAS, the victory marked the culmination of a national effort that defeated the forces of aggression, brought freedom to oppressed nations, and ended the horrors of the Holocaust; and
WHEREAS, August 14, 1945, marked not only the end of the war but also the beginning of an unprecedented era of rebuilding, during which the World War II generation helped to strengthen American democracy by promoting civic engagement, volunteerism, and service to community and country; and
WHEREAS, the entire World War II generation, military personnel and civilians alike, has provided a model of unity and community that serves as a source of inspiration for current and future generations of Americans to come together to work for the continued betterment of the United States of America and the human race.
THEREFORE, I, Dr. Richard L. Thurston, in recognition of the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, do hereby
proclaim August 14, 2020, as SPIRIT OF ’45 Remembrance Day in the great Town of Wappinger and I encourage all Wappinger Town residents to pay tribute to the historic accomplishments and sacrifice of the people of Wappinger, the State of New York, United States of America.
