Take a Moment to Remember, and Say Thank You

Statement

Memorial Day is full of big moments. Parades, flags, speeches, and ceremonies remind us of the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live in freedom and peace.

Each year, I look forward to joining with my fellow New Hampshire residents to pay tribute to these heroes. But Memorial Day is also a day of small moments and of quiet reflections that are just as important. This year, I want to encourage you to pause in your day and remember those who gave their lives in service to our great nation.

Memorial Day is a day for all ages. We mark the loss of our first American citizens as well as those brave servicemen and women whose loss is still painfully fresh for their families and loved ones.

From the oldest veteran to the days-old infant, communities across the country gather to recognize that the perseverance of our nation through the ages has had a cost. And it is part of our sacred obligation to remember that cost.

When we send our servicemembers to war, the very least we owe to them is that we will keep them in our hearts and minds. And when those men and women don't make it home, we owe it to them and to their families not only to remember their sacrifice, but to ensure it is never forgotten.

Memorial Day is a day for somber reflection. That's why, amid the noises of parades and celebrations today, silence is just as important. It is the quiet of family members standing by a headstone, laying flowers and straightening a small American flag, an insignia of the resting place of their heroic father, son, daughter, or mother. It is the pause in conversation when those longing for the presence of a fallen hero know that words are unable to express their grief.

Memorial Day is an opportunity. While we observe Memorial Day, let's pause to reflect on the liberties and privileges we hold as citizens of this great nation. Our liberty and ability to live freely is continually preserved by those who have bravely served and sacrificed so much.

We must never forget that our freedom is not free. And there are still those who are unaccounted for - we must do everything in our power to bring them home and bring their families closure and peace.

Memorial Day is a day of commitment. Let's also take today as an opportunity to recommit ourselves to delivering care to our veterans, which they rightly earned and deserve.

When our servicemen and women make it home, their service should be honored and appreciated. Veterans should never have to jump through hoops to receive timely and efficient care, and I will not rest until this problem is fixed.

Memorial Day is a day to remember. We cannot forget the men and women of our armed forces who are still serving their country and defending our freedoms. Although today is a day to remember those who we have lost in the defense of our nation, so many still serve. We pray for their safety in the face of danger, and count the days until they return home.

Whether it is in a moment that is big or small, public or private, loud or quiet, I encourage you on this day to find time to say what must be said of our heroes who are currently serving abroad and those we have lost -- we will forever remember you and be grateful for all you have given for your fellow Americans.

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