Supporting the goals and ideals of an annual "National Yellow Ribbon Day".

Whereas the yellow ribbon is often worn on clothing or tied around a tree in the front yard of a home as a widely recognized symbol of support for our Nation’s troops;

Whereas the yellow ribbon unites communities across America in support of our Nation’s troops and their families;

Whereas the yellow ribbon recognizes the sacrifices and dedication of the United States military;

Whereas, on April 9, 2004, United States Army Staff Sergeant Keith Matthew Matt Maupin became the first Prisoner of War in Operation Iraqi Freedom; and

Whereas the State of New York has officially recognized April 9 as annual Yellow Ribbon Day, reminding the American people of the powerful symbolism associated with the yellow ribbon: Now, therefore, be it