A HOUSE RESOLUTION commemorating the arrival of THE american EXPEDITIONARY forces in europe during world war I and honoring the service and sacrifice of those who lost their lives.
Whereas, World War I began in August of 1914 initially involving the Allies, including the British Empire, France, Italy, Russia, and Romania, at war with the Central Powers, Germany, Austria‑Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria. After initial successes in Belgium and France, the Central Powers were brought to a standstill where opposing forces dug trenches opposite each other and continued fighting for three years; and
Whereas, in April of 1917, the United States declared war and the American Expeditionary Forces formed for service in Europe. America's involvement proved pivotal from 1917 to 1919, but came at a devastating cost; and
Whereas, North Carolina was transformed during this time with nearly 90,000 service members deployed overseas to fight. These soldiers fought in the trenches in the face of terrible weapons of war and disease; and
Whereas, hospitals, military bases, and internment camps sprung up quickly in North Carolina, including Camp Polk in Raleigh, Camp Greene in Charlotte, and Camp Bragg in Fayetteville. Industries, such as the lumber industry in the mountains and the shipbuilding industry along the coast, grew exponentially during this time; and
Whereas, the 30th Infantry Division, known as "Old Hickory," drawing units from North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee, was one of two divisions credited with breaking the Hindenburg Line in the Battle of St. Quentin Canal; and
Whereas, June 24, 2017, marks the centennial anniversary of when the American Expeditionary Forces arrived in Europe at St. Nazaire and Brest, France; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
SECTION 1.  The House of Representatives commemorates the centennial anniversary of the American Expeditionary Forces arriving in Europe during World War I, which is considered a crucial time in our nation's history.
SECTION 2.  The House of Representatives honors the service of more than four million service members and remembers the sacrifices of the more than 300,000 killed, wounded, or captured during World War I.
SECTION 3.  This resolution is effective upon adoption.