Statement in Observance of Memorial Day

The final Monday in May is reserved as a special tribute to those who have made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the United States of America. Each Memorial Day we honor those who will remain forever as young and strong as the day they answered duty's final call. There are few corners of the globe where Americans have not given "the last full measure of devotion." The record of their heroism at Saratoga and New Orleans; at Gettysburg, Bellau Wood, and Omaha Beach; at Chosin Reservoir, Khe Sanh, Fallujah, and Kandahar will always be preserved. With the barbecues, department store sales, and excitement for the coming summer, the solemnity of this day can become obscured. Yet we must ensure the light of remembrance shines bright, as it does each year during the annual Memorial Day observances at our National Cemeteries and throughout the world where Stars and Stripes are placed to mark the graves of America's heroes. At Calverton National Cemetery, once again this year I have the privilege of thanking the assembled families of the fallen on behalf of a grateful nation. To those families and the loved ones they have lost, we offer our promise that we will respect their sacrifice by preserving and defending what they fought for. Part of that commitment is ensuring those who return home as veterans are given the care and support they need to continue their service in our communities. American's debt to our veterans can never be repaid, but must be continually honored. On this Memorial Day, let us also think of those service members who, for their own reasons, have chosen to take their own lives. In 2012, 350 active duty troops committed suicide, more than were killed by enemy forces in Afghanistan, or who died in transportation accidents that year. I have strongly supported Congressional actions to increase the resources available to the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to reach those considering suicide before they pass the point of no return. It is a growing problem with no clear cause and no easy solution. But the tough fights have always been where Americans distinguish themselves. Our nation needs to do more for those who serve. We can give our best effort. And we must.