Memorial Day affords us all an opportunity to take stock of the present, reflect on the past, and renew our commitment to our military and the future of the United States.

This is a time to remember and honor those who have given their lives in service to our nation and that our strength lies within those willing to serve a cause greater than themselves - the cause of freedom.  It is because of the men and women in our military, who have answered the call to duty in times of conflict and in times of peace, that the United States is a beacon of liberty to all who yearn to be free.

So, as we mark this day, let us do so with grateful hearts and tremendous pride, while remembering and honoring all those soldiers, sailors, marines and guardsmen who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of the United States of America.