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A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION TO RECOGNIZE AND SUPPORT NATIONAL VETERANS DAY, AND HONOR THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF VETERANS IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA
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WHEREAS, This Veterans Day, we honor the resilience and courage of our nation’s veterans. In Gahanna, we recognize the sacrifice and commitment of veterans who embody the spirit of our nation by defending our freedoms and values; and
WHEREAS, To these patriots and their families, we owe an immeasurable debt. Their contributions inspire us to uphold the freedoms they have preserved. We gather in gratitude to remember and celebrate their profound impact on our lives and our city; and
WHEREAS, We express our sincere thanks to our veterans and the noble organizations providing them with the support, community, and services needed upon returning home, including the Federal Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the American Legion Post 797, and the Central Ohio Veterans Stand Down event; and
WHEREAS, The VFW, founded in 1899, serves as a powerful advocate for veterans, instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration, securing GI Bills, and ensuring compensation and healthcare for veterans exposed to service-related hazards. With nearly 2 million members and Auxiliaries contributing over 8.6 million volunteer hours annually, the VFW ensures that no veteran is left to face their challenges alone. Gahanna’s Veterans of Foreign Wars & Ladies Auxiliary Post 4719, founded in 1945, is an integral part of our local veteran community, actively supporting Gahanna’s veterans and military families for 79 years; and
WHEREAS, Since its founding in 2002, Gahanna’s American Legion Post 797, one of Ohio's fastest-growing posts, has welcomed veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces. Working closely with VFW Post 4719, Post 797 supports local veterans and families while providing patriotic education. It fosters a strong support network for veterans and enriches the Gahanna community by creating lasting connections and honoring those who served; and
WHEREAS, The Central Ohio Veterans Stand Down event, founded in 1995, is a robust, volunteer-driven initiative committed to improving the lives of veterans. Stand Down unites veterans and community members to uplift, empower, and celebrate local heroes in an atmosphere of respect and appreciation; and
WHEREAS, In Gahanna, we honor our veterans through enduring investments in Veterans Memorial Park, a sacred space where approximately 2,500 engraved bricks forever honor their service, creating a sacred space where families and community members can remember loved ones and reflect on the bravery that protects our freedom.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT JOINTLY RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL AND PROCLAIMED BY THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN, STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1. Celebrate November 11, 2024, as Veterans Day in the City of Gahanna, in recognition of the profound impact and legacy of veterans in our community and in support of those who have served.
Section 2. Encourage all Gahanna residents to increase awareness of veterans’ contributions, to honor their service and sacrifices, and to support them through gratitude and respect.
Section 3. Commit to supporting local organizations, community partners, and advocates who work to protect and uplift veterans, fostering a safe, inclusive community where their legacy is honored.