Congressman Bob Barr, May 24, 2002

Like no other national holiday, Memorial Day touches the hearts and memories of every American who loves his country. It is more than a celebration. It is more than waving flags and hearing speeches. The Fourth of July celebrates our independence.

Thanksgiving expresses gratitude for our blessings. Veterans' Day honors those who served. Memorial Day is more. Memorial Day honors those who actually gave their lives to preserve that independence and those blessings. It combines the meaning of every other national holiday and represents, perhaps better than the other holidays, why so many sons and daughters of other lands have dreamed of being Americans

This year, especially, as our armed forces battle terrorism abroad, we are reminded that freedom does not come without a price. We may sometimes take for granted the many liberties we enjoy in America, but they have all been earned through the ultimate sacrifice paid by so many of the members of our armed forces. So many soldiers have died for our liberty and prosperity. So many soldiers have died for peace and stability. They knew the risks associated with war. They knew the threat to their lives that would exist when they put on their uniform and went off to follow orders, but they went obediently, and with patriotism and commitment to their country. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude to be remembered on this important day.

Most of us have a relative who fought in World War II, the Korean War, in Vietnam or the Gulf War. Some of us even know a solider who gave his life for his country. Remembering these heroic Americans is what this weekend is all about. Giving thanks for their courage, and appreciating the many benefits from their heroism is something we can all agree on.

In Congress, we have followed through on a serious commitment to our nation's veterans and to boost our national defense. Republicans have always been leaders in providing the necessary resources to maintain a strong military and keep the peace. This year's budget, supported by the President and passed by the House, provides for the largest increase in defense spending in 20 years. From fully funding important programs like the F-22 and C-130J, to a 4.1% across-the-board pay raise for military personnel, on top of this year's 4.6% raise, this budget directly addresses our three main national security goals - winning the war, strengthening homeland security, and modernizing the armed services.

Importantly, our budget also builds on our commitment to veterans, providing even more enhancements in veterans' benefits, especially healthcare. It also addresses an issue that has long been a priority for me in the Congress - ensuring our veterans are honored in death as well as life. Over 450,000 veterans live in the metro Atlanta area, yet the closest national cemeteries with available space are in South Carolina, Alabama, and Tennessee. Working with the late Senator Paul Coverdell and the Veterans Administration, I have been proud to help bring a new veterans cemetery to Georgia. Currently under development in Cherokee County, on land generously donated by the late Scott Hudgens, this new national veterans cemetery will become, as so many other veterans' cemeteries are, a beautiful national shrine, dedicated to those who have fought in the defense of our freedom. They deserve the highest praise of all, and we remember and honor them this Memorial Day.

Barr represents Georgia's Seventh District. He serves on the House Financial Services, Judiciary, and Government Reform Committees.