Pelosi Statement on Observance of Memorial Day

Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616

San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 28:

“Each Memorial Day, a grateful nation marks the selfless service and sacrifice of our courageous American heroes.  President Franklin Roosevelt said, ‘freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.’  Today, and on all days, Americans across the country honor the brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who have sacrificed to secure our liberty, defend our democracy and achieve freedom for our nation.

“From the fields of Saratoga and Gettysburg, the trenches of Western Europe and the jungles of Vietnam, to the dusty roads and mountain passes of Iraq and Afghanistan, more than one million courageous men and women have lost their lives defending our nation.  These fallen heroes made the ultimate sacrifice and deserve our most profound gratitude and deepest respect.  

“On Memorial Day, we reaffirm our sacred duty to honor the memories of the fallen, to support their families and care for their fellow soldiers.  Today, and every day, we pledge that just as the military leaves no one behind on the battlefield, we will leave no veteran and no military family behind at home.”

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