WHEREAS, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. proclaimed July 16, 2021, as National Atomic Veterans Day to honor the service and sacrifice of America's Atomic Veterans; and

WHEREAS, July 16, 2026, marks the 81st anniversary of the Trinity Test, the world's first detonation of a nuclear weapon; and

WHEREAS, thousands of American service members who participated in nuclear weapons testing between 1945 and 1962, served in Hiroshima or Nagasaki following World War II, or were held as prisoners of war near those cities are known as "Atomic Veterans"; and

WHEREAS, many Atomic Veterans were exposed to radiation during their service and, due to the classified nature of their work, were unable for decades to discuss their experiences or seek related benefits; and

WHEREAS, following the repeal of the Nuclear Radiation and Secrecy Agreements Act in 1996, Atomic Veterans were permitted to discuss their service and pursue claims for benefits and medical care; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia honors the courage, sacrifice, and contributions of Atomic Veterans to our nation's security;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize July 16, 2026, as ATOMIC VETERANS DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.