Senator Carper Reflects on the True Meaning of Memorial Day

WASHINGTON – Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement in observance of the Memorial Day holiday: 
 

"As a veteran, I am grateful every day for the freedoms we enjoy.  This Memorial Day weekend, let me ask my fellow Delawareans to keep the members of our military in our hearts and prayers.  The men and women who defend our country do so at great cost, and their families are asked to sacrifice so much for our freedom.  Our military personnel and their families deserve our respect, support, and our thanks every day.  

"Memorial Day takes on an even more special meaning here in Delaware, as we are home to the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center at Dover Air Force Base.  As we reflect on the sacrifices made by our troops, we also want to thank the men and women who serve at the Dover mortuary.  They have a unique and sacred mission and certainly one of the toughest jobs in the military.   I also want to thank the entire Dover Air Force Base family.  They do a remarkable job of caring for the families who come from all over America to receive their loved ones and take them home.  

"Earlier this year, the ribbon was cut at Dover Air Force Base’s Center for the Families of the Fallen.  This facility will provide additional support for the families and loved ones of our fallen heroes and heroines.  Earlier this month, ground was also broken for a new Fisher House which will provide temporary lodging for families who have come to Dover Air Force Base to recover their fallen loved ones and bring them home.  My hope is that by the next Memorial Day, a new Chapel Center will be open to support the hardworking men and women at Dover Air Force Base who have sacrificed so much for our nation.  This Chapel Center will also provide another source of support to families who have lost so much. 

"This weekend, as we gather with our friends and family, let us remember to take the time to remember why this day exists.  From those who wear the uniform today to those who have proudly worn it in the past – they have all given of themselves for the freedoms that we enjoy.  Let us never forget."