In 1981, a Florida high school student wrote a moving poem to honor his father — a Marine. The poem is titled ‘Freedom is Not Free,’ and on this Memorial Day we remember that sentiment as we pay special tribute to the men and women of our Armed Forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice so our nation is still free and strong.   I join with all of you in praying for the families they left behind as we honor all those who gave their lives for our nation.

 

Today, I also join all of you in praying for the safe return of our soldiers who are still in harm’s way in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world. We honor their commitment to our nation and we look forward to the day they will be coming home.

 

From the American Revolution to the wars we are now engaged in, American men and women have answered the call to defend our nation. It has not been an easy task and many sacrifices have been made, but as we remember their patriotism and sacrifice, I am inspired by their courage and dedication to freedom.

 

On this Memorial Day, we honor all our fallen soldiers, their commitment to our country and their legacy to patriotism and sacrifice. We also rededicate ourselves to ensuring that their sacrifices will never be in vain.