Today, we pay tribute to the service of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the protection of this country. We honor those fallen heroes -- all of those who followed our flag—at any point in time—and gave their lives to defend the country they love and our way of life. Each of us owes to all of them a debt we can never fully repay.
Today, we ask Americans not to have sad thoughts at the passing of our heroes, but rather to have thoughts of their legacy of life that was made possible by their commitment.
George Orwell once said, “People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men and women stand ready to do violence on their behalf…”
Let us thank God for those rough men and women who have been the sentinels of liberty for more than 230 years in this great nation.
Today carries added significance for me and for all of us, I’m sure -- as rough men and women -- brave and patriotic men and women are called to participate in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
These men and women, some young some old, are serving honorably.
And we stand here united today to remember those who have fallen in our Nation’s defense. In this current war, more than 3,400 American soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines -- at least 83 had ties to Maryland… 12 already this year…and two young men from Maryland made the ultimate sacrifice just last week.
Most were raised here. Some were based here or simply enlisted here.
On Friday, I attended a deployment ceremony of 136 Maryland Guardsmen in Dundalk and yesterday I attended another deployment in Aberdeen.
I know you’ll join me in praying for the successful completion of their mission, and for their safe and speedy return to their families and friends.
Their dedication and commitment -- and yours -- to our country are what keep our country and the bond that unite us so strong.
On Memorial Day we remember the courage and the sacrifice of those who served and died and we renew our commitment to meet the challenges of America’s future.
As we meet the challenges of this century and this global world, our unity as a people will be our greatest strength.
Look, if you will, at the solid rows of white here at Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetary, at Arlington National Cemetery, at every cemetery that marks the final resting place of men and women of all services, all ranks, all races, and all religions. They stand as stunning evidence and a constant reminder that our founders were right. We are all equal in the eyes of God.
I thank you and our nation thanks you.
May God Bless America.