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Gov. John P. de Jongh Jr. has proclaimed May 31, 2010 as “Memorial Day” in the territory. On this important day of remembrance, we pay tribute to the brave men and women who gave their lives serving in our country’s armed forces.
Memorial Day was established more than one hundred years ago to commemorate those who died in the defense of our national ideals of freedom, justice, and equal rights. Since then, observing this holiday has been one of our nation’s noblest traditions. At the core of Memorial Day lies the most basic of our founding beliefs: preserving freedom at all costs.
Since the territory joined the United States, Virgin Islanders have proudly served in this nation’s military and helped maintain a delicate world peace.
We set aside Memorial Day to unite all our people in prayer and to give thanks for the great blessings of freedom for which so many brave Americans have paid the ultimate price. It is proper and fitting to honor these ideals which they so valiantly defended with their lives.
Governor de Jongh calls upon all Virgin Islanders to unite in observance of Memorial Day, to pray for lasting world peace, and in order to participate in activities scheduled to honor our nation’s heroes.
Special Memorial Day activities are planned in both districts for the Monday holiday. The general public is encouraged to participate in these important commemorations.