Calling the men and women who serve in the military “the heartbeat of what makes the United States the greatest country in the world,” Gov. Kay Ivey declared Thursday, November 9 as Military Day in Alabama.

Alabama is the most pro-military state in the nation — we will always support our service members, active duty and veterans.

I proclaimed Thursday as Military Day in Alabama, and I encourage our military members to proudly wear their uniforms. #alpoliticshttps://t.co/2DpIoG0Dbq

— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) November 3, 2023

To mark the occasion, Ivey is encouraging current and former military members within the state to wear their uniforms in order to symbolize both their service and sacrifice.

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“Whether it be during times of war or times of peace, in the wake of natural disasters or ensuring our military installations remain protected and in full operation, our men and women in uniform stand ready to answer the call and protect our freedoms,” said Ivey.

“As governor, I will always support these extraordinary men and women, because without them, our very way of life would be in jeopardy.”

The state of Alabama has a strong military tradition spanning decades due to the state being the home of several military installations, including Redstone Arsenal, Anniston Army Depot, Fort Novosel, and Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.