FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, May 14, 2004

CONTACT: Mark Johnston or Stephanie Tveidt, (605) 773-3212

Gov. Rounds encourages letter writing to our soldiers worldwide

PIERRE, S.D. – In recognition of Armed Forces Day on Saturday, May 15, Gov. Mike Rounds is encouraging South Dakotans to continue their support for the troops by means of the South Dakota letter writing campaign. 

“Armed Forces Day gives us an opportunity to come together and thank our military members for their selfless service to our country,” said Gov. Mike Rounds. “We have already sent somewhere from 80 to 100 thousand letters to our troops, and we’re going to keep writing them until they all come home. They need to know we think about them daily and appreciate their efforts in protecting our freedoms and helping those less fortunate.” 

Anyone can write a letter, and students are especially encouraged to participate. 

“Currently, 1,386 soldiers are deployed worldwide with the South Dakota National Guard,” said Andy Gerlach, Military and Veteran Affairs deputy secretary.

“Children all around the state can take advantage of this opportunity to support their troops,” said Rounds. “Tell them about your families, summer plans, communities and school activities.  We’ve already had interest from summer recreation programs, day care centers and church camps to get involved with this positive campaign.”

Those interested in participating can send letters and cards to the Governor’s Office at 500 E. Capitol Ave. in Pierre, 57501-5070, and staff will package them for mailing.

On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy, Marines Corp and Air Force Days. The single-day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under one department, the Department of Defense.

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