“I want to express my profound gratitude to the men and women who have served in our Armed Forces and who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.  On Memorial Day, we pause to remember that we are the beneficiaries of their bravery and we are the stewards of their sacrifice. 

“As we honor our nation’s fallen heroes, we also pray for our soldiers who currently are in harm’s way in Iraq and Afghanistan.  We honor their commitment to our nation and we pray for their safe return. 

“Throughout our history – from the Revolutionary War to the War on Terrorism – American men and women have answered the call to defend democracy.  It has not been an easy road, but I am inspired by their courage, their professionalism and their patriotism.

“Today, I honor and pay special tribute to the soldiers who serve -- and have served -- in our military.  As we commemorate their bravery and their dedication, we also must ensure that their sacrifices will never be in vain.”