ST LOUIS MO NEWS (stlouismo.com) - Governor Matt Blunt issued a proclamation declaring May 8, 2008 as Truman Day, in honor of Harry S Truman, our thirty-third President of the United States.
“President Harry S Truman was a distinguished public servant,” Gov. Blunt said. “Resilient, tenacious compassionate and warm hearted, President Truman exemplified many of the qualities that Missourians have always demonstrated. He remains a role model for the leaders and citizens of our state and nation.”
Born in Lamar, Missouri in 1884, President Harry S Truman grew up in Jackson County and later farmed there. Serving in the Missouri National Guard from 1905 to 1911, Harry S Truman was promoted to captain after helping to organize the 2nd Regiment of Missouri Field Artillery that was sent to France during World War I.
In 1922 Harry S Truman was elected judge of the Jackson County Court and later became a U.S. Senator in 1934. Among some of his greatest accomplishments are the reconstruction and revitalization of Europe through the Marshall Plan, the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, the integration of the Armed Forces, recognizing the creation of Israel, the announcement of the Truman Doctrine which led to the containment of communist dominated countries, and the assertion of civil authority over the military during the Korean Conflict. Through his continued commitment to defeat communism, the efforts of President Truman’s administration helped lay the groundwork for ultimate victory in the Cold War.
Throughout his presidency, President Truman held pride in his Missouri heritage, and all that this state had accomplished. After confirming his decision not to run for presidential re-election, President Truman retired to Independence, Missouri. He lived there until his death on December 26, 1972 at age 88.
State offices will be closed on Thursday in honor of President Truman.