WHEREAS, We are entering 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 is positioning 60% of United States aircraft carriers and 60% of United States submarines in the Pacific area; and
     WHEREAS, Washington state naval bases consistently receive awards for the quality of life they provide to sailors and family members. Washington state Navy installations have also received environmental stewardship awards from local, state, and federal agencies, and are recognized as models for other military facilities; and
     WHEREAS, Washington state-based sailors are serving on the ground in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas prosecuting the global war on terrorism; and
     WHEREAS, Puget Sound is the United States Navy's third largest Fleet Concentration area--the Navy bases 2 aircraft carriers, 5 warships, 13 submarines, and 119 aircraft in Washington state; and
     WHEREAS, The United States Navy spends $2.8 billion annually in the Northwest; and
     WHEREAS, Washington-based Navy units were the first on scene to provide relief services after the 2005 Tsunami in southern Asia and fired the first missiles against Taliban forces in the opening days of the war on terrorism; and
     WHEREAS, Navy personnel provide homeland security and disaster assistance to Washington state citizens, such as during this winter's flooding; and
     WHEREAS, Navy personnel donate millions of dollars and thousands of hours to local charities and community programs;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize these and the many other contributions the Navy makes for all persons who live in the United States and the entire global community and honor March 14th as Navy Day.