“On this Memorial Day, I express my profound gratitude to the men and women who served in our Armed Forces and who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
 We are the beneficiaries of their dedication to our nation, and we pledge that we will always remember and honor them.

 “As we pay homage to our nation’s fallen heroes, we also pray for our soldiers who are still in harm’s way in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world.
  We honor their commitment to our nation and we pray for their safe return. Throughout our history – from the Revolutionary War to the War on Terrorism – American men and women have answered the call to defend democracy.
  It has not been an easy task and too many lives have been lost.
  But we are inspired by their dedication to our ideals of democracy and freedom.

“This year, in time for Memorial Day, I am particular proud that the Senate has taken a giant step forward in repaying the debt we owe to our veterans, including National Guard and Reserve members, by passing the

New GI Bill
and the

Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2008

(HEART).

“The

New GI Bill
expands critical education and tuition benefits to help veterans as they adjust to civilian life while allowing our economy to fully benefit from their talent, leadership and experience. The

Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act
provides $2 billion in tax breaks and to active duty military and their families who have carried the heaviest load as their loved ones have been deployed overseas for extended periods.

“Today, as we commemorate the bravery and service of those who have served and continue to serve our country, we must honor them by ensuring that their sacrifices will always be remembered.”