NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. –
Teammates,
For many Americans, Memorial Day is a welcome break from work, a time for outdoor barbeques or a day at the beach. More importantly, it is the day we pause to reflect on the price of freedom and the investment of peace made through the sacrifice of the many warfighters who have gone before us. It is a day to reflect on the service and sacrifice of these heroes and to honor those American families for whom Memorial Day is another day of longing for their loved ones.
On this Memorial Day, we look to the words of President John F. Kennedy, "A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces, but also by the men it remembers, the men it honors." From the American Revolution, through two World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, Iraq and countless crises and conflicts the men and women of this great country responded whenever the nation called. They not only defended freedom at home, but risked and often gave their lives for those unable to secure their own well-being.
For those of us who will mark this Memorial Day in the company of our loved ones and friends, let us remember those who are currently deployed and serving downrange. This weekend, please take time to reflect on what it truly means to live in freedom. We owe all of our veterans a debt of gratitude for their sacrifices in the defense of liberty. In the words of President Abraham Lincoln, "It is the job of the living to take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure." We owe it to the heroes that died and the loved ones left behind to make sure that their sacrifices are remembered and that their service to this nation will always be honored.
Ms. Gonzales and I hope everyone enjoys the upcoming Memorial Day weekend and the start of summer. But, whatever you plan to do please ensure that you build safety into those plans. We need each and every one back pulling on the oars to keep us moving forward. Thank you for everything you do to keep our Warfighters well supplied. I am proud to be part of this great team that works tirelessly every day to support the many men and women, both military and civilian, deployed worldwide…there are none better!
Have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend.
HOOYAH Distribution!
Kevin Jones
RDML, SC, US