As we spend time with friends and family this weekend, we must remember the meaning of Memorial Day.

We remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country by laying down their lives to protect and defend the freedoms we enjoy. 

I served 23 years in the Navy and Naval Reserves. I’m the last Vietnam vet in the Senate. I understand the sacrifices our servicemen and women and their families make. We owe it to them to ensure they have access to health care, education, and job opportunities and a place to call home. And for the 30,000 veterans living in our nation’s capital, we must fight for their right to equal representation in our democracy.

Today, we honor the memories of the fallen. But our veterans -- those still with us and those not -- deserve our respect, support, and thanks every day. 

Have a happy Memorial Day.

God bless,

Tom