On May 30 this year, we pause to reflect on the sacrifices of the countless brave servicemen and servicewomen who selflessly and nobly dedicated themselves to protecting the freedom and liberty of their fellow citizens. Memorial Day is a time to recognize our fallen heroes, appreciate their heroic sacrifices and reaffirm our commitment to the democratic values that make this nation great.

New York State has a long history of supporting members of the military. The first Memorial Day was held in Waterloo in 1866. Families joined together to honor their loved ones by visiting their graves and lowering flags to half-staff. This spirit of gratitude and remembrance continues to this day as people across the country pay their respects to our fallen heroes.

Today, we understand that freedom comes with a price as our soldiers continue to fight to protect our national ideals and foster democratic growth abroad. Members of the military continue to make that ultimate sacrifice for their country – nearly 7,000 have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.¹ Their sacrifice is a somber reminder that the freedoms we enjoy are not without cost. On Memorial Day, we honor all of our fallen heroes, from the American Revolution through Operation Enduring Freedom.

We must also recognize and support those who served their country with distinction. These brave men and women cannot and must not be forgotten. In New York, there are more than 630,000 who served in times of war.² We stand with them in honoring our fallen heroes, and recognize the military personnel who currently serve in combat zones. I know you will join me and keep these active service members in your thoughts every day and not just once a year.

On Memorial Day, you can show your support to our brave men and women by attending one of the many events in our communities. I urge you to consider attending the Fayetteville Memorial Day Parade, which begins at 9 a.m. at the intersection of Highbridge Street and Route 5; the village of Manlius Memorial Day Parade, which starts at 11 a.m., followed by a ceremony at Manlius Centre; the Cicero Memorial Day Observance, which begins at 9 a.m. at Cicero Cemetery; or the Tully Memorial Day Observance, which starts at 9:30 a.m. with a ceremony on the Tully Elementary School front lawn.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about this or any other community issue, please feel free to contact me at 452-1115 or StirpeA@nyassembly.gov.

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