Happy Memorial Day!

Today is a very special day here in the United States of America. My heart is full of thanks to the many tens of thousands who have done something very special. They have redeemed this land by the shedding of blood. All of us who come after you owe much of what we have to your willingness to stand up against enemies foreign and domestic and to stare down the face of evil in all types of conflict.

I honor the fallen heroes from all branches of our Armed Forces and also those in the Intelligence community, our police officers, and our firefighters; along with all others who have given their lives for their country.

I salute all the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of this nation. Who have kept and preserved our freedom for well over two centuries and who have made it possible for me to enjoy the liberties afforded me in this free land.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you. When we meet in the next life, I will owe each of you a tremendous debt of gratitude. I also wish to thank the brave men and women who have been injured in the line of duty — your sacrifice is considered no less heroic.