Virginia Foxx: “In November, thousands of marines will graduate from Marine Corps Infantry Training Battalion. These brave men and women…”

“In November, thousands of marines will graduate from Marine Corps Infantry Training Battalion. These brave men and women will go on to serve and protect the United States and our allies across the world. One such marine is Rece T. Rader from Winston-Salem. His mother, Angela, recently wrote to me about his graduation from boot camp at Parris Island and his subsequent move to Camp Geiger. In her letter, she spoke passionately about how COVID-19 has made it incredibly hard for military families to celebrate alongside their loved ones who have completed their program requirements. Her story applies to so many families, and it highlights the importance of recognizing the many accomplishments of these airmen, marines, soldiers, sailors, and guardsmen. COVID-19 has disrupted the lives of all Americans in many ways. It is, however, very unfortunate that COVID-19 has deprived the servicemembers of the physical and moral support that comes with the attendance of their families at graduation ceremonies. To all servicemembers who are currently preparing for duty: We are incredibly proud of you. Your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and you serve as the role models that young people look to for inspiration. Today and every day, we should celebrate your accomplishments and the strides you continue to make. Though we may not be able to congratulate you all in person, please know we will always celebrate you no matter how close or how far away you may be.…”