Title: Bay of Pigs Memorial Day

Summary: Designates April 17, 2014, as "Bay of Pigs Memorial Day" in Florida.

Full Text:
WHEREAS, men and women of both American and Cuban origin determined that only an armed invasion could overthrow the Communist dictatorship subjugating the people of Cuba, and, on April 17, 1961, approximately 1,500 men, trained, directed, armed, and equipped by the United States, landed on the southern coast of Cuba in an area known as "Bahia de Cochinos," or "Bay of Pigs," and WHEREAS, during the next few days, in the course of a battle against an army immensely superior in manpower, firepower, and supplies, more than men lost their lives, including several who were captured and immediately assassinated, and WHEREAS, the greater part of the remaining forces was captured, and, after being imprisoned for months, these men were ransomed by President John F. Kennedy and returned to the United States, where they became productive members of this nation's society, nev er, however, forgetting their beloved native land, and WHEREAS, April 17, 2014, marks the 53rd anniversary of the Bay of Pigs Invasion, an event held in the hearts of all who long for the liberation of the Republic of Cuba, NOW, THEREFORE, Be It Resolv ed by the House of Representatives of the State of Florida: That the Florida House of Representatives designates April 17, 2014, as "Bay of Pigs Memorial Day" in Florida and expresses its great respect for and admiration of all members of Brigada de Asalto 2506 (Assault Brigade 2506), both living and deceased, and recognizes their fervent desire for the liberation of their people from the Communist dictatorship of the Republic of Cuba. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be presented to Brigada de Asalto 2506 as a tangible token of the sentiments expressed herein.