Bill Cole's Memorial Day

Press Release

West Virginians are prideful. We are proud of our state -- its beauty, its history, and its people. We are proud of our history. The strength of our state was born from our statehood. When President Abraham Lincoln signed the proclamation establishing West Virginia, he did so to help strengthen our union during the greatest civil threat to our county.

Throughout our history our people have in record numbers pledged loyalty to our union and fought to keep it strong by defending our country in battles around the world. We are proud of their service. On Memorial Day let's join together as West Virginians and be proud of their sacrifice. Let's learn their stories from the loved ones they left behind. Let's thank their family members for their strength to carry on and thank them for the strength and courage of their loved ones who sacrificed so much.

Our state's veterans and service members are true heroes who should be remembered every day. Today as record numbers of West Virginians struggle from the loss of lives and injuries, both physical and mental, left from the current War on Terror, I want all of them to know the tremendous pride I have in their sacrifice and service. I also want them to be assured that as Governor, I will do everything within my power to get them the services they need. Whether it be access to quality health care, education and job training, or a break on their taxes, I will fight for them just as hard as they have fought for us.

I hope each of you have a blessed Memorial Day, and ask all of you to join me in pausing to remember those who sacrificed to defend our freedoms.

Source