Today, we gather together to commemorate Yom Hazikaron, the Day of Remembrance for Israeli fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism. This is a solemn day, a day to remember and honor the brave men and women who have given their lives to protect Israel and its people.

As we stand here, we remember those who fought and died defending Israel, from the early pioneers who battled the harsh conditions of the desert, to the soldiers who fought in the War of Independence and in the many conflicts since then. We remember the young men and women who left their homes and families to join the army, knowing they may not return. We remember the families who have lost loved ones and the pain they carry with them every day.

Yom Hazikaron is not just a day to remember those who fell in battle. It is also a day to remember the victims of terrorism, those innocent civilians who were targeted simply because they were Jews living in Israel. We remember the mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters who were taken from us too soon, leaving behind families who will forever mourn their loss.

On this day, we stand together with Israel, united in grief and in our commitment to never forget the sacrifices of those who came before us. We also honor the soldiers who are still with us, those who continue to serve and protect the country. They are the guardians of freedom and a way of life as we know it to be here in America.

As we go about our daily lives, it is easy to take our safety and security for granted. On this day, we are reminded that the freedom we enjoy was hard-won and that it comes at a price. We must never forget the sacrifices of those who have gone before us, and we must always strive to honor their memory by working toward a better future for all.

Let us take a moment to remember the fallen, honor their memory and renew our commitment to the values and ideals they fought and died for. Let us also take a moment to thank the brave men and women who continue to serve our countries, both here and abroad, and to pray for their safety and well-being.

May the memory of our fallen heroes be a blessing to us all.