Ladies and gentlemen, we gather today to observe a day of profound reflection. While Memorial Day often marks the beginning of summer, with family gatherings and parades, we are here to pause and remember the true, solemn meaning of this weekend We are here to remember the more than one million American service members who have given their lives in defense of our nation. From the battlefields of the American Revolution to foreign soils thousands of miles from home, these men and women made the ultimate sacrifice so that we might live in peace and freedom. As President John F. Kennedy once noted: 'As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.' There is no more relevant time to embrace this quote than on Memorial Day. The most powerful tribute we can pay to our fallen is not just a moment of silence. Our tribute must be a daily commitment to the values they defended: duty, courage, loyalty, and a united community. We honor them by supporting their families, engaging with our veterans, and recommitting ourselves to being the very best citizens we can be. Let us build a country, a community, and a way of life that is worthy of the immense price that was paid for it. Never forget their courage. Never forget their sacrifice. And never forget that freedom is not free. Thank you, and may God bless the United States of America.
