Gerald R. Ford

“ For nearly two hundred years, in times of war and peace, the Armed Forces of the United States have served the Nation with courage and devotion. In this country, and throughout the world, those who wear the uniforms of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are respected for their patriotic service. ”

“ I also invite national and local veterans, civic and other organizations to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day each year.
I call upon my fellow Americans not only to display proudly the flag of the United States at their homes on Armed Forces Day, but also to avail themselves of the opportunity to further their knowledge of our Defense Establishment and of the men and women who constitute our real national strength, by attending and participating in the local observances of the day. ”

“ I direct the Secretary of Defense on behalf of the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Marine Corps, and the Secretary of Transportation on behalf of the Coast Guard, to plan for appropriate observances each year, with the Secretary of Defense responsible for soliciting the participation and cooperation of civil authorities and private citizens. ”