Gov. Linda Lingle has proclaimed Thursday as National Airborne Day in Hawai'i.

This follows a congressional designation of this date to recognize 67 years of service and accomplishments of military airborne units of the active, National Guard and reserve components of all military services, both in war and peacetime, as well as individual deeds of valor and service and the efforts of the retiree and prior service individuals to support those troops.

A recognition ceremony highlighting National Airborne Day in Hawai'i will be at 10 a.m. Thursday in the state Capitol's rotunda.

All airborne troops, active, retired and prior service are encouraged to attend. Wearing of military uniform or appropriate organizational attire is encouraged. The public is invited to participate.

The governor's proclamation will be published by Mark Moses, director of the Veterans Affairs' state office. Irwin K. Cockett Jr., a retired Army brigadier general, will present a brief history of Hawai'i's airborne forces.

The program is sponsored by Earl Kalani Memorial Chapter VIII, Special Forces Association.