HOUSE RESOLUTION NO.2003-4627, by Representatives Schoesler, Cox, Carrell, Crouse, Sump, Cairnes, Holmquist, Boldt, Schindler, Hankins, Hunt, Ahern, Pearson, Nixon, Anderson, Grant, Kessler, Linville, Wood, Pettigrew, Blake, Kirby, Ericksen, Sullivan, Upthegrove, McMorris, Miloscia, Lantz, Berkey, Edwards, Rockefeller, McIntire, Hunter, Lovick, Schual-Berke, McDermott, Benson, Alexander, O'Brien, Chase, Santos, Hatfield, Buck, Delvin, Clements, Newhouse, DeBolt, Priest, Skinner, Chandler, Darneille, Tom, McDonald, Condotta, Flannigan, Pflug, Simpson, Sommers, Fromhold, Hinkle, Armstrong, Shabro, Sehlin, Ruderman, Morrell, Bush, Jarrett, Kristiansen, Bailey, Talcott, McMahan, Orcutt, Veloria, Woods and Dunshee

     WHEREAS, The President has proclaimed April 4th as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, a day to honor Americans as national heroes who bear the title "Former Prisoner of War"; and
     WHEREAS, During war and peace, American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines have stood vigilant, prepared, and willing to put themselves in harm's way to protect our great nation, our constitution, our freedoms, and our way of life, and we owe the liberties and happiness we enjoy today to their brave service; and
     WHEREAS, We recognize the sacrifice of our former POW's and remember with honor their dedication, sacrifice, and heroism, specifically including those who suffered the experience of the Bataan Death March; and
     WHEREAS, Many American members of our military forces who defended Corregidor were overwhelmed by enemy forces, suffering unspeakable horrors and death without ever making it to prison camp; and
     WHEREAS, The survivors of the death march entered a new and personal war, struggling against their captors by enduring tremendous hardships and humiliations while supporting their fellow prisoners, exemplifying the very best of our nation's spirit and will; and
     WHEREAS, Rudolph "Rudy" Thaut, a lifelong citizen and Washington state resident, is a living testimony of an American who survived one of the worst times in our country's history, and his life serves as a living piece of history to ensure future generations understand and appreciate the courage and contribution of his selfless service; and
     WHEREAS, Rudolph "Rudy" Thaut, one of 1,200 living survivors of Corregidor and Bataan, overcame horrible adversities and afflictions but has continued to carry his banner high with his service to his community and the state of Washington, a shining example of a true patriot and hero;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of Washington state honor Rudolph "Rudy" Thaut and other American heroes who endured the suffering of Corregidor and Bataan for their heroism, sacrifice, patriotism, and loyalty to this great nation, the United States of America; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Rudolph "Rudy" Thaut.

I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of
Resolution 4627 adopted by the House of Representatives
February 20, 2003

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Cynthia Zehnder, Chief Clerk