The Oak Harbor City Council encouraged the community to express their appreciation for the nation’s service men and women for the sacrifices they’ve made for our country by proclaiming May 1 through June 14, 2009, as National Military Appreciation Days.

“The freedom and security that citizens of the United States enjoy today are direct results of the blood shed and continued vigilance given by the United States Armed Forces over the history of our great nation,” said Councilman Jim Campbell as he read the proclamation.

“It is with great honor that I’ve been chosen to read this proclamation,” Campbell said as he presented Cmdr. Peter Mehl with the proclamation.

The council encourages the community to show its support for the 10,000 Whidbey Island Naval Air Station service men and women and civilian staff through the display of patriotic flags and ribbons during National Military Appreciation Month, which includes, Loyalty Day, National Day of Prayer, Victory in Europe Day, Military Spouse Day, Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Navy Day, Army Day and Flag Day.

Mehl attended Tuesday night’s city council meeting to accept the proclamation on behalf of Capt. Gerral David, commanding officer of NAS Whidbey.

“We are happy and proud to be a part of this community,” he said.