Honoring and Remembering The Sacrifices Of The Fallen

Each year, on the last Monday in May, we take time to reflect, remember and give thanks to the brave souls who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defending democracy and our nation. We sometimes may think of Memorial Day as a holiday weekend and start of summer, and while many enjoy a day off from work, it is more important to recognize this important day as a day of remembrance.

On May 30, 1868, mourners placed flowers on the graves of American soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery outside of Washington, DC. This marked the first observance of Memorial Day. Today, there are roughly 300,000 markers at Arlington National Cemetery alone. This is a testament to the extreme sacrifice of our brave men and women, and the loved ones they left behind, dying for a cause in which they believed.

Today, America will continue this tradition by honoring our nation’s fallen servicemen and women in ceremonies across the country. People will pause and reflect upon the rich history of this nation, and the fact that it was the members of our armed forces, those who were killed in action who have stood fast at the gates of liberty to defend our nation from all who seek to destroy it. Their sacrifice is a debt that can never be repaid, but one that will never be forgotten or taken for granted.

There is a moving quote from President Truman inscribed on the WWII Memorial in Washington, DC. It reads: “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” These are words from the heart, and not only do they reflect my feelings, but I believe they capture the essence of the American spirit and the gratitude to those who have allowed us to go to bed each night, knowing our armed forces are prepared to preserve what President Reagan called, “A shining city on a hill.”

Today, we live in a different world, battling a faceless enemy who lurks in the shadows and kills innocent people. These militant radicals will stop at nothing to destroy freedom and the American way of life. But, we have something they do not - - moral righteousness. President Reagan once said, “Above all, we must realize that no arsenal, or no weapon in the arsenals of the world, is so formidable as the will and moral courage of free men and women. It is a weapon our adversaries in today's world do not have.” I cannot think of a more accurate and powerful statement than this.

It was once said that, “Democracy is worth dying for, because it's the most deeply honorable form of government ever devised by man.” Yes, it is. And, on this day we thank those who have served this nation ensuring that the bright torch of a liberty and a promising future in America continues to burn bright. 

I would like to leave you with a prayer that captures the full meaning of Memorial Day. It was delivered in November of 1864 by President Abraham Lincoln.

“I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours, to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of Freedom.”

As always, when events unfold in Washington, I will be sure to update you. In the meantime, do not hesitate to visit my website at www.randy.house.gov or call my office toll free district wide at (888) 763-1611 or my Washington, DC office at 202-225-4005.