WHEREAS, 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, institutions that have defended our nation’s freedom and upheld our country’s values for two and a half centuries; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia has a proud and storied history of military service, with generations of veterans, active-duty personnel, and military families making invaluable contributions to our national defense and the security of our communities; and

WHEREAS, Virginia is home to some of the nation’s most significant military installations, training centers, and veteran communities, reflecting the Commonwealth’s deep-rooted commitment to supporting those who serve and their families; and

WHEREAS, Virginia’s veteran and military families make an extraordinary impact on the Commonwealth, and we proudly honor each and every one of them; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth continues to lead as the best state in America for veterans to live, work, and raise a family by providing critical benefits in recognition of the sacrifices made by all military families; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia has demonstrated its commitment to veterans and their families by eliminating the tax on up to $40,000 of military retirement income, returning over $782.9 million to military families, and securing the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program tuition waiver to ensure it continues to be honored by our colleges and universities; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper to recognize and celebrate the selfless service and sacrifices of our veterans and military families, who have demonstrated unwavering dedication, patriotism, and courage in defense of our great nation; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia reaffirms its dedication to honoring veterans, strengthening resources for military families, and fostering a culture of service that encourages all citizens to contribute to the well-being of their communities and country;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize June 8-14, 2025, as MILITARY250 WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all of our citizens.