Political Quotes

“General John Logan, the national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, officially declared the first Memorial Day to be observed on May 30th, 1868. In a healing moment for our Nation, flowers were placed on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington Cemetery. Our nation was united in our grief. On this Memorial Day, 136 years later, we are again united in our grief and our respect for our fallen soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines. Whether speaking of those from the wars of our past or those from our current conflict in Iraq, we acknowledge their valiant service and sacrifice, as well as the void that their loss has left for their families, their communities, and our Nation. In my thoughts now, along with all of those whom we have lost, are six young men from my congressional district who have given their lives in Iraq: Specialist Brandon Tobler, Corporal Travis Bradach-Nall, Specialist Christopher Rivera Wesley, Private First Class William Ramirez, Specialist Philip Rogers, Lance Corporal Bob W. Roberts. There are no words that Congress can utter today that would be as noted as the silence of these soldiers. There is no way to express our appreciation and sorrow to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We can only fulfill our duty to ensure that our men and women in uniform receive the best training and equipment, adequate pay and fair treatment during their service and after.”