Item 9: Draft Recommendation — original pdf

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BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20260909-009: Veterans Day – November 11 WHEREAS, generations of Americans have served in the United States Armed Forces, making profound contributions and sacrifices in defense of the nation; and WHEREAS, since 1919, the United States of Americans have honored veterans of our armed forces, officially recognized by the United States Congress on June 4, 1926, with these words: Whereas the 11th of November 1918 1; and WHEREAS, nearly 31,000 veterans live in Austin2, representing approximately 4% of the 18 and over population and the City of Austin has long recognized the contributions of veterans to our community, including through its annual Veterans Day observances and its employment of more than 1,600 military veterans Austin3; and WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes that later life can bring challenges for veterans, including “vision or hearing loss or a chronic medical condition,” changes in roles and relationships, “financial or housing issues,” and the need to provide or receive additional help4; and WHEREAS, ensuring that older veterans can access appropriate services and remain connected to their communities supports dignity, independence, and healthy aging; and WHEREAS, recognizing veterans also provides an opportunity to acknowledge the families and caregivers who support those who have served. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to recognize November 11, 2026, as "Veterans Day" in Austin, honoring veterans of all generations for their service and sacrifice and encouraging continued efforts to ensure that veterans and their families can access the services, supports, and opportunities they need throughout their lives. 1 U. S. Dept of Veterans Affairs, History of Veterans Day 2 United States Census Bureau, Quick Facts Austin, TX - Veterans 3 Austin Human Resources, Talent Strategy Division 4 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Resources for Older Veterans Date of Approval: _______________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________