WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, today
offered the following statement in observance of Memorial Day:
“On this Memorial Day Weekend, with the promise of summer
upon us, I invite you to enjoy the beautiful weather and the company of loved
ones. But as we gather, it’s important for us to recognize that we enjoy
it, in large part, due to sacrifices made by those not here: men and women who
fought to protect us.
“Memorial Day is so much more than just the final day of a
three-day weekend or a day off work. On this most solemn of our national
observances, we must pause to remember and honor our fallen service
members. I ask that all Alaskans join me in devoting a few minutes of our
time in reflection as a small tribute to those who have given their lives for
the cause of freedom.
“Many of us know at least one of these fallen
patriots. They may be your fathers or mothers, sons or daughters.
We shared our lives with them, we encouraged them, we laughed and cried with
them, and they were a part of us. They came from all corners of our
Nation and they inspired us with their unflinching stamina and selfless
courage. They fought for our freedom in inhospitable lands, turbulent
seas, and hostile skies—never to return to the country they loved. As we mourn
their loss, we’re comforted by their memory and we labor on, emboldened by the
fighting spirit which they never surrendered.
“Although we may not be able to fully measure the cost of
our heroes’ sacrifice, we can commit to preserving the memory of their profound
devotion. So today, I ask that we honor our fallen heroes, comfort the
loved ones of those we lost, and carry on our lives in a manner that is worthy
of their sacrifice. May God continue to bless our great Nation.”
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