From Lexington to Anbar

Many soldiers, Marines, sailors, and airmen have died in war throughout our history to defend the nation and life we have today. We rightly honor them on Memorial Day.

When so few of us are required to sacrifice anything at all to enjoy our freedom and prosperity, it is difficult for me to convey the thanks and respect that I have for those who are fighting and dying today, carrying out this relentless duty.

It is painful to read every notice of someone who had died in this long war. Somebody who had plans for life and a family anxious to see them home again becomes a memory alone in the hearts of others.

I can only hope that for the families who must go forward without a son or daughter, or a brother or sister, or a father or mother who has died in uniform, that the sincere gratitude of a nation can carry them through the grief of losing so much.

Remember them always. They rely on us to make their deaths mean something.

We must not squander what they have given us.