On Memorial Day, we honor those who died protecting our nation. Over the course of our history millions of brave men and women have paid the ultimate cost. On Memorial Day, we pay our respects.
As a veteran myself, having proudly served in the United States Army, I will always remember the sacrifices of the men and women serving in our armed forces. There is a sacred, unspoken, pact existing between a nation and its protectors, a solemn promise, we will remember. We will remember the price our veterans paid. We will remember all we hold dear and cherish is due to our troops and their willingness to lay down their lives to defend our nation.
We should remember daily the cost others have paid so we may live in a country where freedom is a reality and not simply a dream. Remember the families who spend this holiday filled with memories of a loved one who was lost in service to our country.
Although we take this special day to honor those who gave their lives for our country, our appreciation should extend to every day. This Memorial Day we express our thanks and the appreciation we feel for the great cost our soldiers have paid to ensure our freedom.
Volunteers and I will be on hand at the Springfield National Cemetery, on Monday serving ice cream to veterans and visitors, as they pay their respects to our fallen heroes.
We pay our respects to the men and women who protect our country. We keep our promise, we remember and we will never forget.