I was touched by this Memorial Day letter from Congresswoman Ann Wagner of Missouri.  I hope it touches your soul as well.

Another Memorial Day is here, and I want to thank all of you who served our Nation by wearing the uniforms of our Armed Forces. I would also like to thank all those that never wavered in their support for our troops and veterans.  On this sacred holiday, I would like to take a moment of your time and stray a little bit from the usual Memorial Day message and share a story from our own, Colonel Jack Jackson, USMCR (ret.).  Colonel Jackson is an inspiration to all veterans and a true leader for our community.  Most importantly- I am honored to call him a friend.
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“A few months ago - I attended an event where I met a fellow veteran who had lost a leg in combat in Afghanistan. This veteran was pushing a wheel chair for a WWII veteran. After some introductions and a few war stories, I thanked them for their service to our nation.  When I turned to leave - the younger veteran asked me a question that still echoes in my mind today:‘Colonel, we made it home, but many never returned. Did those who perished on the battlefield die in vain?’

What an important question to ask, especially during a time of war – a question that will always be asked by veterans and families of fallen soldiers.  I told the two men that those brave patriots did not die in vain and gave their last breath so we could breathe the sweet air of freedom.

It’s an important question to ask – because it is incumbent upon our nation's leaders to ensure that our service members who sacrificed so much on the field of battle did not die in vain. Now more than ever - we need strong leaders in Congress to make sure our veterans are taken care of with the highest level of dignity and respect as I did when I came home.

I know our Congresswoman, Ann Wagner, stands with our patriots.  She is working hard to improve the lives of our heroes and is fighting every day to protect our veterans from draconian budgetary cuts.  Just as FDR once said, ‘A man who is willing to shed his blood for our country deserves a square deal.’ And with a son serving in the United States Army on active duty, I know she takes this matter very seriously.

I join Congresswoman Wagner in praying for the safety of all who serve.  I hope you join us in honoring our fallen heroes this Memorial Day, and don’t forget to smell the sweet air of freedom. 
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Veterans like Colonel Jackson continue to be an inspiration for all Americans – and we are lucky to have him in our St. Louis community.  I would like to wish everyone a Happy Memorial Day and it is an honor to represent you in Congress.  I will never forget the sacrifices that were made in the name of freedom and I will always honor those who have the courage to stand up and fight for our country.

Sincerely,