Mitch Landrieu: “over 50 years ago, Sir Winston Churchill uttered the immortal words, ``never in the field of human conflict has so much…”

“over 50 years ago, Sir Winston Churchill uttered the immortal words, ``never in the field of human conflict has so much been owed by so many to so few.'' Although Prime Minister Churchill was referring to the selfless and courageous effort of the Royal Air Force in their defeat of the Germans in World War II, I would like to argue that these words apply equally to the men and women fighting to preserve democracy in Iraq and Afghanistan. These men and women are not only making it possible for each and every one of us to go about our daily lives under the blanket of safety and freedom to which Americans have become accustomed, but they are also striving to bring these benefits to people who have never had them before. If you have had the opportunity to spend time with these men and women, as I have, you quickly observe that they embody everything good about America. Their patriotism, their unyielding commitment to serve their country, their selflessness and their sacrifice should serve as examples to us all. Perhaps what amazes me most, is that although these men and women are prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for their country, they ask for little in return from it. It is therefore incumbent on us to recognize the debt we owe to them, and honor it. Today there are 80,000 members of the National Guard and our Reserve armed forces serving bravely in the war on terror.…”