May 6, 1971
Page 13849
PRISONERS OF WAR DAY IN MAINE
Mr. MUSKIE. Mr. President, no more tragic situation is faced by the American people as a whole than that of our fighting men held prisoner of war in Laos and North Vietnam.
It is a matter to which many words have been devoted; but little progress has been made toward the release of these men.
The anguish experienced by the families of these men continues without relief. Those of us who share their grief owe them our full support.
In this regard, I am proud that the State of Maine has recently set aside a day in honor and support of these men and their families. In declaring April 28, 1971, as POW Day, Gov. Kenneth Curtis urged all citizens of Maine to show their respect and concern for these servicemen, and to join in praying for their release.
Mr. President, during these times of such dissension aver our policy in Vietnam, it is critical that our prisoners of war and their families be aware that in the minds of most Americans there is no higher priority than obtaining their release. Therefore, I welcome this event in Maine as a serious gesture of our common concern.
I ask unanimous consent that the text of the proclamation declaring April 28, 1971 as POW Day in Maine be printed in the RECORD.
There being no objection, the proclamation was ordered to be printed in the RECORD, as follows:
Whereas, the Silent Majority Mobilization has designated April 28, 1971, as a national day of support for our American Prisoners of War in the hands of the North Vietnamese; and
Whereas, these men have suffered and continue to suffer pain, imprisonment, deprivation of their rights, prolonged separation from their loved ones, and the peculiar mental and physical anguish which is the unique lot of the prisoner-of-war; and
Whereas, these men have carried out, and continue to carry out their duties to their country in accordance with their principles and pursuant to directions of the American people whom they are defending; and
Whereas, it is entirely just and in accord with humanitarian instincts that we, the American people, remember these men, cherish their contributions to our security, and pray for their safety and their speedy return to their homes and families;
Now, therefore, I, Kenneth M. Curtis, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim April 28, 1971, as "POW Day" in the State of Maine and urge all citizens to show their respect and concern for these servicemen and to join me in praying for their release.