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| 316 Hart Senate |
| Office Building |
| Washington, D.C. 20510 |
| P: 202-224-4343 |
| F: 202-228-1373 |
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HONORING OUR HEROES
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| by Senator Jim Bunning |
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May 26, 2005 - We are in a day and age when many Americans use the word “hero” very loosely to describe their favorite sports star or celebrity. I would like to highlight America’s true heroes - the women and men of the armed services. Each and every day they put their lives on the line so we at home can live in freedom. These American heros should be looked to with pride and honor.
When I visited Iraq in early 2004, I saw the best that America has to offer. Those in our military are patriots, and they work hard every single day to make sure that we are safe here in the homeland. Their job is one of the toughest in the whole world.
Unfortunately, what makes news is the doom and gloom which the media likes to report on - even when it isn’t even true. One story about service members flushing a Koran down the toilet in the magazine Newsweek, was later proven to be untrue and the publication retracted it.
I hope the press highlights some of the positives the military is doing to promote democracy throughout the world. In building schools, providing potable drinking water, and other infrastructure projects the brave men and women of the armed forces are great ambassadors of American ideals world wide. But most important is the under-reported story about America exporting freedom around the world.
As we honor those who have fallen defending the freedoms that we all cherish this Memorial Day, we must never forget them and their loved ones that are left behind. From the Revolutionary War to the War on Terrorism the American soldier has stood for freedom.
For over 200 years, the United States of America has been the beacon for democracy and freedom around the globe. This burden has also brought significant sacrifice. Most recently in Iraq and Afghanistan, men and women have given their lives liberating an oppressed and ravaged people. Without these brave men and women the world as we know it would be a much different place.
Since the tragic events of September the 11th, Americans have come to know a new reality. This reality may be new but it’s still built upon the principles laid down by our forefathers. The men and women who have given their lives fighting for these principles throughout our history are heroes. They have made the ultimate sacrifice for all of us, and we must never forget it.
I ask my fellow Kentuckians to enjoy their long weekend but to spend some time with your friends, families and loved ones giving thanks to and prayers for those who protect our way of life everyday. God bless America and God bless those who sacrificed so much in the name of freedom and democracy.
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