Press Release

On the Eve of Memorial Day Weekend, Gillbrand Announces Key Senate Committee Approval of Amendment to Establish Yellow Ribbon Day to Honor Members of the Armed Forces Serving Overseas

May 25, 2012

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today announced that a key Senate Committee included her amendment to establish “Yellow Ribbon Day” to honor U.S. Armed Forces currently in combat and crisis situations abroad, and to serve as a reminder to the American people of the sacrifice made by U.S. troops both present and past in the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act. 

“Our men and women in uniform put their lives on the line every day in the service of this country,” said Senator Gillibrand. “While no symbol could ever adequately convey the debt of gratitude we owe our troops, this day serves as a reminder of their on-going sacrifice, and of the historical significance of the yellow ribbon as a symbol of support for American troops, their families, friends and communities.” 

The yellow ribbon became a symbol to honor members of the Armed Services during World War II when families and loved ones of soldiers tied yellow ribbons around trees to signify their communities’ shared sacrifice and support of the troops abroad. Congressman Chris Gibson included companion language in the House version of the bill