Today, we honor those who have died protecting our freedoms. To the many veterans who have fought to protect the principles our democracy was founded upon-- we say thank you.
Please remember that at 3:00 p.m. today there will be a national moment of silence. Amtrak trains will blow whistles, major league baseball will halt play, and across our country Americans will reflect on the lives given in combat so we can live in freedom.
My maternal grandfather was a POW during WWII and years later, he still suffered health problems from the effects of torture and deprivation.
Several other family members have served our country in the military as well: my mother, my father, my brother, my paternal grandfather, and several uncles. To each of them and to all of you who have served, I say thank you. Without your untold sacrifices, we would not be the country we are today.
We would not be free without you.
