A SENATE RESOLUTION honoring the dedication of the North carolina veterans park.
Whereas, the citizens of North Carolina have a long and proud history, dating to this country's birth, of paying special honor and respect to its sons and daughters who protect our country's freedoms; and
Whereas, the lands of North Carolina and our country are enjoyed by all its citizens due to the unending efforts and sacrifices made by all of our veterans; and
Whereas, North Carolina is proud to be the home to Cherry Point Air Station, Charlotte Air National Guard, Camp Lejeune, U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, Fort Bragg, Pope Air Force Base, New River Air Station, and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base; and
Whereas, North Carolina is proud to call itself the most military friendly state in America and, as a state, North Carolina has one of the highest percentages of veterans in America; and
Whereas, July 4, 2011, will mark the dedication of the North Carolina Veterans Park; and
Whereas, the purpose of the North Carolina Veterans Park is to honor all North Carolina veterans and be a composition of objects, spaces, and images that symbolize gratitude, reflection, celebration, and education, and commemorate achievement, service, dedication, and sacrifice; and
Whereas, the North Carolina Veterans Park is located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, home of Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base, and is adjacent to the Airborne and Special Operations Museum, which is a part of the United States Army Museum System, providing an exciting educational experience and preserving the legend of airborne and special operation forces; and
Whereas, the North Carolina Veterans Park will consist of seven water features and public art representing participation of individuals from across the State; and
Whereas, the hands of 100 veterans were cast to honor and represent every county in North Carolina and are displayed in this park's Wall of Oath; and
Whereas, soil from each of the State's 100 counties will be included in the construction of the columns in the park; and
Whereas, public art sculptures in the public plaza at the North Carolina Veterans Park signify our veterans' commitment, courage, dedication, heroism, sacrifice, service, and strength, as well as the incredible talents of our State's artists; and
Whereas, the city of Fayetteville has directed the design and construction of the North Carolina Veterans Park to meet or exceed all guidelines and guidance provided by a large segment of the veteran population, including Content Committee members from all five branches of the military services; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate: 
SECTION 1.  The Senate joins the citizens of this State in expressing its pride and gratitude to the veterans of this State for their service, dedication, and sacrifice in protecting the freedoms of this country and designates July 4, 2011, as "North Carolina Veterans Park Day."
SECTION 2.  This resolution is effective upon adoption.