Tonight, as I lay my head down, I find myself overcome with both gratitude and grief—a heart full of mourning, yet deeply thankful. I reflect on the lives lost in battle so that I might live free.
Over 1.3 million American service members have given their lives in wars since the founding of our nation. Millions more answered the call—some willingly, others with quiet reluctance. Some stepped forward when others could not. Some gave everything so that future generations could enjoy freedom.
Tears fill my eyes when I think about this day. When I watch military films or hear stories from the battlefield, my heart pounds with the weight of sacrifice. I am reminded that in every war, every skirmish, and every mission, lives hung in the balance. Some were spared. Others were not. And here we are—left behind to remember.
To the soldiers who gave their lives: thank you. I may not know your names, but I know what you gave for me. You took on the burden so I could live freely. Thank you for your sacrifice. Rest now in the peace you’ve earned, for you fought the battle and received your heavenly reward. Thank you for enduring even when the fight was hard, for keeping the future in mind, and for knowing the cost. Your service, your courage, and your ultimate sacrifice mean more than words can express. I vow to honor your memory so your death was not in vain.
To the families of the fallen: thank you. Thank you for raising brave sons and daughters who gave their all. I mourn with you today. I mourn as we place flags on graves and remember what was lost. You were part of their strength and their resolve. Your sacrifice did not go unnoticed. I honor you and your loved one today.
To the veterans who made it home but were lost to the battles within: I am deeply sorry. You endured horrors we can never fully understand and were too often left to fight alone afterward. We failed to support you the way you supported us. An estimated 17 veterans die by suicide every day in the U.S.—a tragic reminder that war doesn’t always end when the battlefield goes quiet. Your life mattered. Your death will not be forgotten, for it, too, was a casualty of war. Thank you for your sacrifice, your time, and your bravery.
To those who never came home: I see you. You may have been lost in war, but never in our hearts. Though your name may not be known to all, your courage echoes through history. You are not forgotten. Your sacrifice is equal in honor to those who were laid to rest with ceremony. You are a hero, too. Thank you!
To every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, and Marine who paid it all: thank you. I will strive to honor your sacrifice by living with purpose, treating your brothers and sisters in arms with dignity, patience, love, and respect.
Rest easy now. Your sacrifice has been made. And we remember.
