John,

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Memorial Day holds a special significance for veterans and military families.

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Unlike Veterans Day, Memorial Day is meant to honor those who wore the uniform and gave their lives for this country. Veterans will spend the day remembering our friends - our brothers and sisters - who made the ultimate sacrifice.

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Memorial Day is difficult for many, but it is also inspiring.

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I spend my Memorial Day weekend thinking back on my own service, the service of my friends, and the service of my family. I mourn the loss of brave men and women who dedicated their lives to a cause bigger than themselves. I feel humbled and privileged to be part of the same community as our nation’s best. And I feel a renewed sense of purpose to make sure I protect what they sacrificed for.

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This Memorial Day, I urge you to spend a few moments remembering why we are able to enjoy this weekend – because someone paid the price to keep us free.

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And to all those who’ve lost someone in service to this country – you have the country’s unending gratitude. We will always honor that sacrifice.