Blog - Honoring Our Fallen Heroes

Op-Ed

By Rep. Markwayne Mullin

Many Americans think of Memorial Day as the unofficial beginning of summer and an excuse to enjoy a long weekend away from work. This year, families, friends, and communities are able to gather and celebrate together after a long year of isolation. But while many are celebrating, we must not forget the true reason for Memorial Day and the families who are hurting.

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance in which we reflect and pay our deepest respects to the fallen heroes who have lost their lives in the line of duty. There is no more notable cause than risking your life to defend the people and the virtues that you hold most dear. This weekend, we honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we may enjoy the gifts of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

We must never forget we are the land of the free, because of the brave. Freedom is not guaranteed, and we must never take the valor of our great nation for granted. President Ronald Regan once said, "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same." The United States continues to be a beacon of freedom, hope, and democracy in the world because of the selfless service and sacrifice of our nation's veterans.

This weekend, I ask that you join me in setting aside time to remember the men and women who sacrificed their lives so we can enjoy the freedoms we have as Americans. We will never be able to repay our debt to them and it is our duty as Americans to honor the fallen, as well as give honor and respect to the families who have lost their loved ones while serving.

As we commemorate this Memorial Day, I encourage you to reach out to the families of fallen service members in your community and thank them for their tremendous sacrifice. May God bless our fallen heroes, and may God bless America.

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