WHEREAS, Pioneering men and women, known as cowboys, helped establish America’s frontiers; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy archetype transcends gender, generations, ethnicity, geographic boundaries, and political affiliation; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy embodies honesty, integrity, courage, compassion, and determination; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy spirit exemplifies patriotism and strength of character; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy is an excellent steward of the land and its creatures; and

WHEREAS, The core values expressed within the Cowboy Code of Conduct continue to inspire the pursuit of the highest caliber of personal integrity; and

WHEREAS, Cowboy traditions have been part of the American landscape and culture since 1523, and today’s cowboys and cowgirls continue to strive to serve and to preserve and perpetuate this unique element of America’s heritage; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy continues to be an important part of the economy through the work of approximately 656,500 ranches in all 50 states; and

WHEREAS, Membership and participation in the National Day of the Cowboy Celebration (NDOC), Single Action Shooting Society (SASS), Working Ranch Cowboys Association (WRCA), Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association (CMSA), American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), Championship Bull Riding (CBR), Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA), and other organizations that encompass the livelihood of the cowboy continue to expand nationally and internationally; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy and his or her horse is a central figure in literature, art, film, poetry, photography, and music; and

WHEREAS, The cowboy is a true American icon occupying a central place in the public’s imagination; now, therefore, be it