Addabbo Highlights 65th Anniversary of National Armed Forces Day on Saturday, May 16th

Queens, NY (May 15, 2015): NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, is urging his constituents to join with him this Saturday, May 16th,  in recognizing the 65th Anniversary of National Armed Forces Day in the United States.

“National Armed Forces Day, which is now celebrated each year on the third Saturday in May, was established by President Harry S. Truman in 1950 to provide Americans with a special opportunity to recognize and honor the men and women of the United States Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy,” said Addabbo.  “The theme of the first celebration was ‘Teamed for Defense,’ which initially reflected the unification of the United States military forces under a single government department, but also underscored how each branch of the armed forces works together with the others to serve our country, preserve our freedoms, and protect the people of our nation from those who would do us harm.”

Addabbo noted that appreciation of United States servicemen and women – whether they are on active duty or are veterans who have returned home from military service – is something that should be freely and respectfully offered, both during times of peace and periods of war. The Senator is of the belief that Veterans Day is every day of the year, not merely one day on the calendar.

“Those who make the choice to serve our country in the armed forces are making a commitment every day that is brave, selfless and a testament to their unique dedication to the United States of America and the noble principles and freedoms it was founded upon,”  Addabbo said.  “I salute these courageous men and women, and express my deepest gratitude for their service to each and every one of us.”

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