President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has by Proclamation declared Saturday, February 11, as “Armed Forces Day” to be observed throughout the country as a National Holiday. According to a Foreign Ministry release, President Sirleaf, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), has ordered all military and paramilitary organizations within the Republic to organize and execute appropriate programs, parades and ceremonies in recognition of the Day. She has further directed that all government offices, public and business houses be closed on that day. This year’s celebration is the 60th and is being observed under the theme: “The Armed Forces of Liberia Supporting and Defending our Democratic Transition,” while other activities commemorating the celebration include: February 5th, Thanksgiving Christian Service; February 7th, Armed Forces Day Symposium; and February 10th, Thanksgiving Muslim Prayer. The National Legislature declared February 11 each year as “Armed Forces Day”, to be observed as a National Holiday in recognition of the vital role of the Armed Forces of Liberia in defending and protecting Liberia’s territorial integrity and its people from foreign aggression and upholding the social and political liberty of the people of Liberia as enshrined in the Constitution.

Source: GNN Liberia February 10, 2017 16:31 UTC