DoD News, Defense Media Activity
WASHINGTON, May 22, 2015 – While every Memorial Day is
marked with solemn remembrance, this year’s has special significance, Defense
Secretary Ash Carter said today in a Memorial Day message to the force.
“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 September 11, 2001,” Carter said.
“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,” the defense secretary said. “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,” Carter said.
“They, alongside their families, continue that tradition of
service to country that makes our military the finest fighting force the world
has ever known,” he said. “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,” the defense secretary said.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment