COLUMNS

Memorial Day: An Opportunity to Remember and Honor America’s Fallen Soldiers

This weekend we observe Memorial Day, a special and solemn time to recognize and remember American soldiers who died while serving our country. As we pay tribute to those who did not return home – especially the servicemen and women whose lives have been lost in the effort to liberate Iraq and Afghanistan – we renew our commitment to forever honor their memory.

Throughout our history, American soldiers have fought oppression and tyranny around the world in order to protect our security and liberty at home. Through their constant sacrifice, members of the United States military have earned the eternal respect of a grateful nation. We express our deep appreciation to those who serve whenever we see them – and the importance of doing so cannot be overstated. When we thank veterans for their heroism we acknowledge that the freedom we enjoy today is the result of their bravery.

Memorial Day, however, provides a special chance for Americans to honor those who did not return. Having served admirably, these soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom, and we honor the memory of the fallen on this day across New Hampshire. In public observances, parades, and tributes, we remember those who died in uniform for their greatness; for their courage in the face of danger; for their strong sense of patriotism and duty; and for serving a cause greater than themselves. We also reach out to those who continue to mourn a friend or family member, hopeful that memories will bring them comfort. May those who grieve find strength in the knowledge that although their loved one is no longer with us, this country will always honor their sacrifice.

Preserving the memory of American soldiers who died in service to our country is a shared obligation of all Americans. Mindful of this duty, our state’s Congressional delegation is currently working to ensure that New Hampshire soldiers who fought in the Civil War’s Battle of Antietam are recognized in a lasting way. Senator Gregg has introduced legislation in the Senate – of which I am a cosponsor – and Congressmen Bradley and Bass have introduced similar legislation in the House to establish a memorial at Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland to permanently recognize New Hampshire soldiers who participated in the 1862 battle. The memorial would honor the officers and enlisted men of the Fifth, Sixth, and Ninth New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry Regiments, and the First New Hampshire Light Artillery Battery who fought at Antietam.

The delegation’s unified efforts to memorialize these soldiers – who fought far from home and over a century ago – represent a national commitment to never forget those who died while serving in our country’s armed forces. Our work on this initiative is guided by the understanding that America’s fallen soldiers deserve nothing less than the promise of having their courage honored for posterity.

As we turn our thoughts this weekend to American soldiers and veterans – those who are with us and those who were lost in service – we also remain mindful of the servicemen and women around the globe who are fighting in the war against terror. Like those before them, their bravery is for a noble and necessary cause – we pray for their safety, and mark the days until their safe return.