• PROCLAMATION BY THE Onurrunr of tireitttr of Trxao TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME: WHEREAS, in 1889, with the launching of the United States Navy's first battleship, a proud tradition was born, a tradition of powerful fighting ships bearing the name USS TEXAS, and WHEREAS, the first USS TEXAS served with distinction from 1889 to 1911 and saw action in the Spanish-American War, and WHEREAS, in 1914, the second USS TEXAS was built by the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company and commissioned and recognized as the largest, most formidable warship afloat, and WHEREAS, after being a major participant in World Wars I and II, the Battleship TEXAS was permanently and appropriately moored at the San Jacinto Battleground where annually she is visited by thousands; and WHEREAS, these ships have been a source of pride not only to their crews, but to the citizens of the United States and particularly to Texans; and WHEREAS, the United States Navy did authorize the construction of a new USS TEXAS to be built by the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company; and WHEREAS, the new USS TEXAS(CGN-39), a nuclear powered guided missile cruiser will be one of our Nation's most powerful combat ships; and WHEREAS, the USS TEXAS was properly christened by the First Lady of Texas on August 9, 1975, and launched with the pride of the citizens of Texas in having that namesake once again protecting and defending our national heritage; and WHEREAS, this namesake is a visible tribute not only to our State but also to the many patriots who have dedicated their lives to the cause of liberty and independence; and NOW, THEREFORE, be it ordered that the USS TEXAS Liaison Committee is hereby established as an ongoing organization representing the people of the State of Texas, to serve as follows: to coordinate with and assist the United States Navy in serving the best interests of our great State of Texas and the interests of the USS TEXAS; to assist in the preparation of and in the commissioning of the USS TEXAS; the Committee shall be authorized to receive and accept gifts for the purpose of providing traditional honors to the Guided Missile Cruiser TEXAS; the Committee shall ensure coordination of the ships calls on Texas' ports, and will also assist the ship when otherwise appropriate; the Committee shall be comprised of citizens from throughout Texas representing various professions and areas of interest as appointed by the Governor;and this Committee may utilize the service of state employees in the establishment and service of this Committee, reporting annually to the Governor of the Committee's activities. In official recognition whereof, I hereby 0.7 affix my signylure this 7. J clay of42k,. 1977 e nor 6f X3S