Andrea Joy Campbell: “As we approach Memorial Day I would like to begin my statement today describing a powerful and emotional sight that…”

“As we approach Memorial Day I would like to begin my statement today describing a powerful and emotional sight that moves up to the core of our faith and beliefs about America and about those who served in the Armed Forces of our Nation. Many of us have visited one or more of the military academies that train America's future military leaders. These academies have varied missions and yet all of them share in the critical task of developing leaders for their particular branch of service. On the grounds of each academy is a chapel, spectacular places that are easily identifiable as places of worship. In each chapel, a place has been reserved for those Prisoners of War and the Missing in Action from each particular service. A pew has been set aside and marked by a candle, a powerful symbol that not all have returned from battle. These hallowed places have been set aside so that all POW's and MIA's are remembered with dignity and honor. It is a moving and emotional experience to pause at these reserved pews, to be encouraged by the burning candle, to recall the valor and sacrifice of those soldiers, sailors, marines, and pilots and to be inspired today by what they have done. Yet, I believe we can and should do more to honor the memory of all the POW's and MIA's who have so gallantly served our nation.”