Okaloosa County BOCC — February 11, 2013 — 4-16-13 BSM proclamation — reading text

PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, the Blue Star Mothers of America Inc. was founded as a patriotic service organization on February 2, 1942, to unite mothers who had sons or daughters serving in the United States Armed Forces; and WHEREAS, the nonpartisan, nonsectarian and nondiscriminatory nonprofit organization was chartered by the United States Congress in 1960; and WHEREAS, Northwest Florida Blue Star Mothers, Chapter 7, was established and char- tered in January, 2009; and WHEREAS, persons eligible for membership in the organization include mothers and stepmothers who have sons or daughters currently serving in the United States military or who are honorably discharged veterans. Other family members and friends of military personnel or veterans are eligible to become associate members of the organization and fathers of military personnel or veterans may join the branch of the organization known as the Dad’s Association; and WHEREAS, the work of the Blue Star Mothers of America includes providing support for active duty service personnel and their families, promoting patriotism, and assisting various veterans organizations such as the American Gold Star Mothers, who are recognized for their many sacrifices for the cause of liberty; and WHEREAS, with members of the United States Reserve components having been called to active service around the world since 2001, the work of the Blue Star Mothers of America has become increasingly important, and the dedication, sacrifice and hard work of the devoted mem- bers of the Blue Star Mothers of America merits the recognition of all our citizens; and WHEREAS, it is fitting and appropriate that the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. be recognized for their invaluable contribution to our nation. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of Okaloosa County, Florida, that we do hereby proclaim May 2013 as BLUE STAR MOTHERS OF AMERICA MONTH DULY PASSED AND ADOPTED this 16th day of April, 2013. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OKALOOSA COUNTY, FLORIDA ATTEST: _________________________________ DON R. AMUNDS CHAIRMAN ___________________________ DON W. HOWARD CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT