WHEREAS, The 21st century is the Pacific century, and Washington state is uniquely positioned politically, economically, and geographically to deal with the opportunities and challenges presented by Asia and the Pacific Rim countries; and
     WHEREAS, The Navy is the military service that secures sea lanes, allowing free flow of commerce to and from our state, and the service whose power projection promotes stability for our friends and deters aggression from our foes; and
     WHEREAS, The Navy has explored and defended Northwest waters for more than one hundred fifty years; and
     WHEREAS, Washington state naval bases consistently receive awards for the quality of life they provide to sailors and family members, are recognized as models for other military facilities, and are continuously being improved in energy efficiency and environmental responsibility; and
     WHEREAS, Washington state-based sailors are serving at sea, on the ground, and in the air, on every ocean and every continent; and
     WHEREAS, Puget Sound is the United States Navy's third largest Fleet Concentration area, with two aircraft carriers, five warships, fourteen submarines, and one hundred nineteen aircraft in Washington state; and
     WHEREAS, The United States Navy spends 4.3 billion dollars annually in the Northwest and provides economic stability to dozens of Washington cities and tens of thousands of Washington state citizens; and
     WHEREAS, Washington state-based Navy units were the first on scene to provide relief services after the 2005 tsunami in southern Asia, the first to fire missiles against Taliban forces in Afghanistan, and continue to set the standard for naval operations around the world; and
     WHEREAS, Navy personnel provide homeland security, disaster assistance, and rescue services to Washington state citizens; and
     WHEREAS, Over 128,000 members of the Navy family, including active duty, retired, dependent, and civilian Navy personnel, consider Washington home; are community leaders, role models, and mentors; and invest millions of dollars and thousands of hours to the economy, local charities, and community programs;
      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives recognize and express appreciation for all those who have ever served in the United States Navy, and all the family members and friends who shared their sacrifices with them; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize all the many contributions the Navy and its personnel make for everyone living in the United States and the entire global community, and observe Navy Day which is celebrated on March 6, 2009.