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Pelosi Statement on Observance of Memorial Day

May 26, 2019

Contact: Speaker's Press Office,
202-226-7616

San Francisco – Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today in observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 27th:

"On Memorial Day, a grateful nation humbly pauses to remember the brave men and women who answered the call to serve and made the ultimate sacrifice. These proud patriots raised their right hand and swore an oath – from the Revolution and the Civil War, to the fields of Western Europe and the jungles of Vietnam to the struggle against terror in Iraq and Afghanistan, they fought for democracy, they fought for freedom and they fought for the ones they love, and in doing so they have helped advance a brighter future for all Americans.

"Next month, America will mark the 75th anniversaries of two of the most momentous events in our history – the audacious D-Day landing of allied troops on the beaches of Normandy and the passage of the landmark G.I. Bill. From the coast of Normandy, the forces of freedom would sweep through Europe to deliver hope and liberate millions from tyranny. In America, we honored their valor and sacrifice, and the heroism of generations of servicemembers throughout our history, by passing the G.I. Bill to repay the debt we owe to those who risk everything to keep us safe, secure and free. The G.I. Bill has been the foundation of our commitment to our servicemembers, their families and caregivers, helping build the middle class and bring prosperity to all of our communities.

"This Memorial Day, we remember these fallen heroes, and reaffirm our sacred duty to honor their memory, their fellow servicemembers and their families. Fulfilling that responsibility, last week, the Democratic House passed nine bills to support the health, benefits and financial security of our nation's 22 million veterans, Gold Star families and military caregivers as well as urgent action to end the crisis of veteran suicide. Every day, Democrats are fighting to deliver progress that is worthy of their bravery and sacrifice. On this day of remembrance, we once again renew our pledge: that just as the military leaves no one behind on the battlefield, we must leave no veteran behind when they come home."

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