On April 4th, President Bush signed a proclamation declaring April 9, 2002 to be Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.
In a written statement, Bush wrote "I call upon all the people of the United States to join me in remembering former American prisoners of war by honoring the memory of their sacrifices."
Federal, state, and local governments as well as private organizations were urged to observe the day with ceremonies and activities.
Among the most notable OV-10 related former POW's are Col. Cliff Acree (CO of VMO-2 at the time) and CWO4 Guy "Great White" Hunter, who were the first Americans shot down during Operation Desert Storm in January 1991. Their experience being held, tortured, and abused by the Iraqis, as well as the experience of their family and friends as they worked tirelessly to try to speed their return, was recorded Cindy Acree's book The Gulf Between Us which is a must-read. (You may purchase this book from the OBA PX) The OBA welcomes this proclamation, as well as any event that will further the knowledge, recognition, and understanding of the costs of Freedom. May we never take these costs lightly, nor forget why the price must be paid.
