Memorial
Day 2015
While every Memorial Day is marked with solemn remembrance, in
2015 we take special note. This year -- as we mark the 150th anniversary of the
end of the Civil War, the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, the 65th
anniversary of the start of the Korean War, the 40th anniversary of our
departure from Vietnam, and the 25th anniversary of Operation Desert Shield in
the lead-up to the Gulf War -- we honor and remember those who perished in
those wars, just as we recall the more than 6,800 American service members who
gave their lives since Sept. 11, 2001.
To the families of our fallen patriots: we lack the words to
describe what you feel on Memorial Day, because try as we may -- as we must --
we can never fully know it. But we do know what your sacrifice means to us, to
our country, and to a world that still depends so much on America for its
security.
As our nation remembers the service and sacrifice of previous
generations, we as a people recognize that the men and women serving in uniform
today -- active-duty, guard, and reserve -- are as humble, patriotic, and
selfless as any generation that has come before. They, alongside their
families, continue that tradition of service to country that makes our military
the finest fighting force the world has ever known. Nearly 200,000 of these
soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines are currently serving beyond our shores,
protecting us far from home, and will not be able to spend this holiday with
their loved ones. Today, and every day, we honor them and their families with
our heartfelt thanks and support.
Courtesy: http://www.defense.gov/Releases/Release.aspx?ReleaseID=17296