WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) issued the following statement in advance of Memorial Day, May 26, 2014.

“On this Memorial Day, we recognize our veterans who have sacrificed in the service of this great country.   After a long winter, Americans are finally enjoying the outdoors and spending precious time with their loved ones.  We must always remember that we enjoy these freedoms because the members of the United States Military remain diligent, ready and willing to serve.

“From the American Revolution to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, military men and women have always made enormous sacrifices in order to defend our nation. I am inspired by their patriotism, their courage, and their dedication to freedom. 

“This year, 24-year-old Petty Officer Second Class Mark Mayo of Hagerstown, Maryland gave his life, as a civilian assaulted a fellow sailor and grabbed her gun, Petty Officer Mayo stepped into harm’s way, shielded his shipmate, and died so that she could live. 

“In our history, not all those who support National Defense have worn a uniform or have been called away to distant battlefields.  Rosie the Riveter saying ‘We Can Do It’ sounds an awful lot like today’s young people saying ‘Yes We Can.’ 

“This Memorial Day should be a time when all Americans can reconnect with our history and core values by honoring those who gave their lives for the ideals we cherish. Memorial Day is a time we hold close to our hearts. In our hectic daily lives, let us not forget why our country remains free.

“Throughout this month we have seen many American flags and flowers adorning the graves of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation. We honor them and remember their families, who wear the Gold Star Pin, because they bear the greatest burden of sacrifice.  I remember in particular the 114 Marylanders who have been killed in our most recent conflicts and am reminded that our freedom is not free.” 

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