Friend,

In so many ways, this Memorial Day represents a break from tradition. We'll miss the barbecues, the parades, and the trips out of town that typically mark this holiday weekend -- but the pandemic can't stop us from honoring the memory of those who served.

I'll be doing what I do each Memorial Day: visiting the resting place of my birth father, Capt. Artie Pfefer, who died serving in Vietnam when I was an infant.

Just like my dad, I'm a proud Minnesotan and a proud American. And as a member of Congress, I'm grateful to have the opportunity to serve the extraordinary country to which he gave his life.

My father is one of hundreds of thousands of courageous men and women who have paid the ultimate price serving our country. Let's honor each of them by being more compassionate and respectful toward one another -- today and every day.

Have a meaningful Memorial Day,

Dean