Hanscom Celebrates Law Day Published April 26, 2007 By Capt. Rob Caridad Electronic Systems Center Judge Advocate Hanscom AFB -- Hanscom will observe Law Day, an annual celebration of the nation's great heritage of liberty, justice and equality under law on May 1. Originally established in 1958 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower and officially designated by joint resolution of Congress in 1961, Law Day is an opportunity for Americans to reflect upon the legal ties that bind. Each year, a different facet of the American legal tradition is highlighted. This year's theme is, "Liberty Under Law: Empowering Youth, Assuring Democracy." "The theme is particularly appropriate in this year -- the 60th anniversary of the Air Force," said Electronic Systems Center Deputy Staff Judge Advocate Lt. Col. Devonnia Tentman. "It mirrors the anniversary theme of 'Heritage to Horizons,' by honoring the past while aiming for future excellence." The 2007 Law Day theme emphasizes the role of the next generation of Americans in fostering democratic institutions, including the U.S. Constitution, which all Air Force members are sworn to support and defend. In support of this goal, the Hanscom legal community will undertake several basewide and targeted outreach efforts, in addition to the everyday legal support it provides. "Law Day is a great chance for us to remind Team Hanscom about the services available through their base legal office," said Capt. Chris Thompson, 66th Air Base Wing Military Justice chief. "In addition, though, we really want to get the message across to our young people that the law is at the heart of what it means to be an American." Though Law Day is officially designated as May 1 the entire month of May is set aside by the American legal community for related activities. For additional information on Law Day, the American Bar Association maintains an educational Web site at www.lawday.org.