March 20, 2006

LANSING – In a proclamation issued today, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm officially declared Sunday, March 26, 2006, Support Our Troops Day in Michigan.  The proclamation recognizes members of the United States military who have brought great honor to our state and nation and who have carried out the highest standard of patriotism and service.

“We must remember and acknowledge our debt to the servicemen and servicewomen who bravely stand watch each day to preserve our peace and liberty,” Granholm said.  “Through their contributions and sacrifices, these men and women have taught us the definition of the word hero, and I am proud to proclaim Support Our Troops Day in Michigan.”

Granholm issued the proclamation in conjunction with a Support Our Troops Day candlelight ceremony being organized by Waterford Kettering High School student Alexandra McGregor.  The candlelight ceremony will be held March 26 at 6:00 at Waterford Kettering High School.

Last Thanksgiving, Granholm traveled to the Middle East to meet with Michigan soldiers and personally express her appreciation and support for troops who are on the front lines in the war in Iraq.

To honor the memory of Michigan soldiers who have fallen, Granholm issues an executive order lowering flags on buildings across the state each time a Michigan member of our armed forces is lost in combat.