Fallen Heroes

FALLEN HEROES -- (House of Representatives - May 20, 2004)

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Mr. MARKEY. Mr. Speaker, as we prepare to dedicate the World War II Memorial in Washington DC next week, and remember the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation who repelled the forces of tyranny and hate in Europe and the Pacific 50 years ago, let us also pause to honor a new generation of brave Americans that have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. We observe a moment of silence for those brave young men and women that have given their life while serving our Nation in the War on Terror.

Throughout the history of this Nation, the soldiers of our Armed Forces have fought to preserve the ideals of democracy, freedom, and liberty. The tragic events of September 11th, 2001, reminded us that there is no permanent respite from the need to maintain our guard in an unstable world. Even as Communism and the Cold War have faded into history's mists, radical and dangerous new groups and individuals are ready to rise to test the willingness of America to defend itself. The sacrifices of our sons and daughters fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq demonstrate that when duty calls, America is ready. Hundreds of thousands of men and women in uniform have bravely answered the call to duty and traveled far beyond our borders to preserve and protect our nation in its time of need. Our Armed Forces are working today throughout the globe to ensure that future generations of Americans can live in a free and peaceful society.

Today, we pause to remember our young men and women who answered the call, fought bravely, and sacrificed much to preserve our freedom. It is with a heavy but grateful heart that we thank our fallen soldiers and their families in these difficult times. We can never fully repay their service, but we must never forget their sacrifice.

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