Whereas on June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress, representing the citizens and patriots of the Thirteen American Colonies, authorized the establishment of the Continental Army;

Whereas the collective expression of the pursuit of personal freedom that created the United States Army also led to the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the realization of the fundamental principles and values of the United States in the Constitution;

Whereas, for the past 250 years, the Army's central mission has been to fight and win the wars of the United States;

Whereas the 190 campaign streamers carried on the United States Army flag are a testament to the valor, commitment, and professionalism of the brave soldiers who have served to build the Nation's might;

Whereas the battles of Yorktown, Gettysburg, Cantigny, Normandy, the Bulge, Okinawa, Inchon, la Drang, 73 Easting, Fallujah, and Kamdesh are but a few of the notable battles soldiers of the United States Army have fought with extraordinary courage and distinction;

Whereas loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage are the values by which the United States soldier lives and serves;

Whereas the United States Army of today is the world's most capable and lethal ground force that always places the mission first and will never accept defeat;

Whereas Army forces are ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the United States of America in close combat;

Whereas no matter what the cause, location, or magnitude of future conflicts, the United States can rely on its Army to produce well-trained, well-led, and highly motivated soldiers to carry out the missions entrusted to them;

Whereas the United States Army’s motto, as carried on its flag is This We’ll Defend.; and

Whereas, whatever the mission, the United States turns to its Army for decisive victories as the guardians of freedom and the American way of life: Now, therefore, be it