Memorial Day Statements

Assorted statements on Memorial Day

Joe Sestak, candidate for Senate:

"As we mark the traditional beginning of summer and spend time with our friends and family, it is important that we also take a moment to remember all those who sacrificed so we could enjoy days like this," Joe said. "America's sons and daughters have served in defense of liberty around the world. Today, more than 300,000 American service members are deployed overseas. We ask that everyone take a moment today to remember that troops don't go to war - families and nations go to war. Let us never forget what so many have sacrificed in our defense and make sure that we serve our men and women in uniform, and their families, as well as they have served us."

Dan Onorato, candidate for governor:

“I am honored to recognize the service that veterans in Pennsylvania and throughout our country have made to keep our nation safe.”

“Throughout our Commonwealth’s history to the present day, many Pennsylvanians have given their lives to preserve our freedom and defend the interests and ideals of the United States. We should recognize their patriotism and sacrifice not just on Memorial Day, but every day. Pennsylvania is home to 1.3 million men and women who served in our armed forces. We must ensure that we meet the commitments made to our veterans and that they receive the best health care, educational, employment and economic opportunities to help them succeed once they return to the nation they risked their lives defending.”

Dr. Manan Trivedi, candidate for congress, 6th district

On this Memorial Day, I ask that you remember the true meaning behind the holiday. We must always honor those who served in the military and so unselfishly put the well-being of our nation ahead of their own. In doing so, they paid the ultimate sacrifice.
We must never forget each of every one of them, and their families who have endured through their loss.

Through my own experience in Iraq, I know that war has cost us so much. But there are lessons to be learned as well. One that I will never forget is the bravery of our women and men in uniform. It is unparalleled and unmatched.

So please take some time today to remember our fallen servicemembers who have given so much to our country.

Allyson Schwartz, Congresswoman from the 13th district

As you and your family look ahead to the Memorial Day weekend, please think of our service members, veterans and their families and the enormous sacrifices they have made for our country.

It is especially important to acknowledge the tremendous service of Pennsylvania troops currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, and in other missions around the world. Today, there are more than 5,680 service members from Pennsylvania currently deployed around the world in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF).

Since 2001, 241 Pennsylvanian service members have given their lives and 1,607 others have been wounded while deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. We must never forget the commitment and courage shown by these men and women who have sacrificed so much for America.

In Congress, I have been a steadfast supporter of our men and women in uniform. Being the daughter of a Korean War veteran, I take very personally my responsibility to ensure that our troops receive the respect that their service has earned them.

On this Memorial Day, please join me in remembering those who have paid the ultimate price by giving their lives in service to our nation. Our thoughts are extended to their families as we honor their memory.

Patrick Murphy, Congressman, 8th district

On this Memorial Day, I ask that you remember what this holiday really means. Remember to honor those who served in the military and put the well-being of our nation ahead of their own. Please take some time today to remember our fallen brothers and sisters who have given so much to our country.

Bryan Lentz, candidate, 7th congressional district

As we relax with our friends and families this weekend, let's not forget what Memorial Day stands for [link to www.vfw.org]

Josh Shapiro, state representative, 153rd district

This Memorial Day weekend as we pause to remember those who gave their lives in the service of our country, I hope you will also take a moment to thank the courageous men and women who serve and have served in the military.

Last week, I hosted a program for more than 100 local veterans to provide important information about services for our veterans. It was an event, with more than 15 service agencies, which brought our veterans up-to-date on all the benefits available to them.

An important way to honor the memory of those who died in defense of our great nation is to commit ourselves to assisting active duty military personnel and our veterans. A great way to do that is to ensure that all veterans and their families receive all the benefits and services they deserve. If you or someone you know is a veteran, please visit my Web site for a complete listing of services and eligibility requirements. Please share this information with any veterans that you know.