Secretary Rumsfeld Delivers Memorial Day Message
May 25, 2006

“From the first citizen soldiers who stood fast to defend their homes at Lexington and Concord, to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines securing our liberty and our way of life today, our country has been truly blessed by those who stepped forward to say, “send me.”

“Theirs is a noble calling that founded a nation, drove back the forces of Fascism, Communism, and terrorism, and made historic advances in the cause of human freedom.

“Their service strengthens our will to persevere through every challenge. They remind us of what it means to be an American.

“So to all of those serving our country today, know that we are deeply grateful to you and to your families. May God bless you. And May God bless our wonderful country.’

Editor’s note: The audio version of this message is found by clicking here http://www.defenselink.mil/home/RumsfeldMessage.WAV.