Memorial Day provides a time for every person to reflect upon the ultimate sacrifice that countless men and women have made in service to our nation. While every era in American history is unique – different economies, varying ways of life, ever-changing geography – there are a few constants. Throughout every period, you can find those unafraid to support the values that make our country great, and a willingness of Americans to defend those values at a moment’s notice.
We enjoy the freedoms we do because of those brave men and women.
I’m blessed to represent communities in Northwest and West Central Ohio that have always done their part to recognize our service members. I was privileged recently to meet with Eagle Scout Dominic Adkins in Venedocia who – even at a young age – recognized the importance of honoring those who have served our country. For his Eagle Scout project, he helped bring a 105 mm Howitzer to Venedocia Memorial Park, a place dedicated to remembering those in the community that served in the military. His reverence towards our troops – especially those who had given the ultimate sacrifice – was inspiring.
As we think of how best to honor those who have died in service to our country, the words of Ronald Reagan ring true. He said, “We must try to honor them—not for their sakes alone, but for our own. And if words cannot repay the debt we owe these men, surely with our actions we must strive to keep faith with them.”
On this Memorial Day, we remember those who are no longer with us and honor their legacy. May God bless them.
— U.S. Rep. Bob Latta, 5th District
