WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement in commemoration of Memorial Day:
“Today we honor those who gave their lives in service to our country – to defend our freedoms and our democracy. We reflect on the immense sacrifices these brave Americans made, and we also honor the families, loved ones, and communities who continue to carry that sacrifice with them every single day.
“We proudly recognize that New Mexicans have answered the call to serve since long before New Mexico was admitted to the United States. And that service has shaped the future of our country and our world, from defeating Confederate forces at the Battle of Glorieta Pass to turning the tide for Allied Powers in World War II after thousands of courageous New Mexicans were subjected to the brutality of the Bataan Death March, starved in Prisoner of War Camps, and fought on Okinawa and Iwo Jima.
“May we remember the lengths these New Mexicans went to in defense of our country, our freedoms, and our democracy. May we honor the memory of those we lost in the Bataan Death March and World War I and II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, wars in the Middle East, and in all conflicts and service.
“May their sacrifices remind us that democracy and freedom are not and were never guaranteed. They have been and must be defended, fought for, and protected through generations of sacrifice. They depend on every single one of us recommitting to the values they fought for. And the best way we can honor their sacrifice is by continuing their work.”
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