María Elvira Salazar: “this weekend we will all return home to our States and march in parades and participate in memorial events. Personally…”

“this weekend we will all return home to our States and march in parades and participate in memorial events. Personally, I am always humbled to meet with men and women who heard duty calling and answered without hesitation. When duty called for brave Americans to stand against the spread of tyranny and oppression-- whatever its many forms--they answered. They were willing to go anywhere--from the shores of Normandy to the islands of the Pacific to the jungles of Southeast Asia, to Afghanistan and the Persian Gulf-- they put their lives on the line for our safety and freedom. And in exchange for that, our Nation owes them sincere gratitude and a promise of support when they return. During World War II, my father was a soldier and my mother worked in the War Department. During that time, my uncle Leandro was killed in Europe. My parents knew firsthand about the ultimate sacrifice to protect America. They taught me the fundamental values I hold dear-- love of family, community, country and God. My dad taught me something else. Four years ago, my father died at the age of 85. Even though his mind was wracked with Alzheimer's, my father's last wish was to be buried in his World War II uniform. My dad knew that there is no greater honor, in life or in death, than to love our country. When I got to the Senate, I asked to serve on the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. I wanted to fight for heroes like my father, uncle, brothers, and nephews.…”