It is Important to Remember Who We Memorialize this Day

In the fall of 1777, Thomas Paine wrote of the then two and a half year long War for American Independence, "Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it."

Since the Minutemen of Lexington and Concord first took up arms against their British colonial masters, millions of Americans have risen to that challenge. From the Siege of Yorktown to the fields of Antietam, from the muddy trenches of the Meuse-Argonne to the frozen forests of Bastogne, from Pork Chop Hill to Khe Sanh, and from the streets of Fallujah to the caves of Tora Bora, Americans have fought to ensure the survival of our great nation and the ideals we represent.

Right now American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines – like those who came before them – stand ready to defend theUnited States from those who would do us harm. They are living proof that America is, and remains, the home of the free because of the brave.

This Memorial Day I hope you will take a moment to reflect on those who have sacrificed so much for this country. You will find these heroes not only in Arlington, but in every cemetery in every town in America.

Throughout our proud history, men and women from every walk of life have rallied to the call of freedom. Many gave their lives so that we might continue on in peace. We are forever in their debt.

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