President Joe Biden honored the service and sacrifice of the United States Armed Forces, proclaiming the third Saturday of each May as Armed Forces Day. The president recognized the unmatched bravery and dedication of military personnel across all branches, expressing gratitude for their relentless commitment to preserving liberty at home and abroad. Biden's address highlighted the various bipartisan military and veteran support measures signed into law, including the PACT Act, geared toward assisting veterans exposed to toxic substances, according to The White House.
The President emphasized the importance of not just equipping service members for combat but also ensuring their comprehensive care upon return, noting over 30 pieces of bipartisan legislation aimed at bolstering benefits for military families. He addressed efforts to alleviate the financial strains endured by these families, outlining initiatives such as correcting the student loan system which relieved an approximate $160 billion debt impacting nearly 4.6 million borrowers, and fostering economic security through enhanced employment opportunities for military spouses and more accessible child care options.
Pivoting to the well-being of those serving, President Biden declared unwavering support for inclusivity and respect within the military ranks, as the Armed Forces should be a place where every service member feels safe and valued — his administration has effected reforms in military justice and lifted the ban on transgender individuals serving openly. Biden reaffirmed his Administration's commitment to rooting out harassment and discrimination, ensuring a culture of dignity and decency prevails in the Armed Forces.
As part of his Presidential duties, Biden has directed the appropriate observances to be planned and called upon civil authorities, private citizens, and various organizations to participate in venerating the efforts of the Armed Forces, this engagement with the community serves to heighten public understanding and esteem for the soldiers' undertakings, the proclamation further invites Americans to exhibit the national flag on Armed Forces Day to showcase their support and further encourages them to engage in local observances fostering a deeper awareness of Military service.
The proclamation signed by President Biden on May 17 supersedes last year's declaration, continuing the tradition established by his predecessors, ceremoniously marking the date as one of national observation and gratitude toward the Armed Forces of the United States, with The White House inviting the nation to collectively acknowledge the valor and commitment of its soldiers.
