Res 0581-2023

Whereas, For centuries, the armed forces have played a central role in American life, defending American values and interests from Bunker Hill to Baghdad; and Whereas, The individuals who serve in the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, the Marines, and the Coast Guard come from all 50 states and embody the socioeconomic, racial, and religious diversity of our nation; and Whereas, During the month of November, the United States celebrates Veterans Day, to recognize and honor the immeasurable sacrifices and indispensable contributions veterans have made to national security; and Whereas, Every year since 1996, The President of the United States issues a proclamation to designate the month of November as National Veterans and Military Families Month to honor veterans, military families, caregivers, and survivors, who have served and continue to serve the nation; and Whereas, Service to the nation also includes the immense patriotism, courage, and resilience of America's military families; and Whereas, New York City is home to roughly 200,000 veterans, and is the first city in the nation to establish a Department of Veterans Services; and Whereas, The agency works to connect, mobilize, and empower New York City's veteran community in order to foster purpose-driven lives for New York City Service Members - past and present; and Whereas, As a national leader on veterans' issues, New York City should recognize November as Veteran Appreciation Month in the five boroughs; and Whereas, This recognition would reaffirm New York City's commitment to its veterans and create opportunities for civic engagement across New York City's institutions; and Whereas, In light of the significant contributions that veterans have made to American life, and New York City's engagement with the veteran community, establishing this commemorative month is an important step toward becoming the most veteran-friendly city in the country; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Council of the city of New York recognizes November as Veteran Appreciation Month in the city of New York. EA/DR LS 10668 10/17/2023