Political Quotes

“today I wish to pay special tribute to Michigan residents who have given their lives while serving in our Nation's Armed Forces and their families. As long as Michigan has been a State--and even before--our people have been willing to put their lives on the line in defense of this Nation. From the War of 1812, to the Civil War, the World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, the Cold War, and the fight against terrorism, the people of Michigan have raised their hand when called upon and stood to the very end. That was never more true than on December 7, 1941. That morning, 2,341 American servicemembers lost their lives when Pearl Harbor was attacked. More than 30 of those who died were from Michigan. This spring, I had the opportunity to honor their sacrifice in person when I visited Pearl Harbor with Senate colleagues. It is difficult to explain just how moving it is to see Battleship Row and to gaze down at the USS Arizona, so quiet and still in those clear blue waters. I thought about what it must have been like that Sunday morning, a day that began like any other, but which would live in infamy. Imagine being barely out of high school, far from home, and on the, threshold of war. Imagine being aboard a ship that is coming under attack. Imagine the fearful realization that this might be where your story ends. These veterans gave everything for us. It is our solemn duty to keep the promises we have made to them. My own father served in the Navy during World War II.…”