U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, District 21 | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, District 21 | Official U.S. House headshot
Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik published an op-ed in the Watertown Daily Times honoring service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Stefanik highlighted her efforts in securing provisions within the 2024 national defense bill to extend support for Gold Star families.
Find the full opinion below.
Watertown Daily Times: Remembering Our Heroes, Honoring Sacrifice, and Supporting Survivors this Memorial Day
By Rep. Elise Stefanik
Memorial Day carries profound significance, offering a moment for somber reflection on the sacrifices made by our nation's service members who never returned home.
"As the chief advocate of Fort Drum in Congress and one of the highest populations of veterans and retirees in New York State, I approach this day with a deep sense of reverence reflecting on the selflessness and courage exemplified by the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division who made the ultimate sacrifice."
"These remarkable individuals are forever enshrined in history, their bravery serving as a constant source of inspiration for our grateful nation."
"Each name inscribed on the roll call of fallen heroes represents a unique story of courage, commitment, and sacrifice."
This year, as we pay tribute to our fallen, we also mourn two distinguished members of the New York National Guard: Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankoski and Chief Warrant Officer 2 John M. Grassia. These service members tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in Texas. Their deaths remind us of the inherent risks faced by those in uniform and the toll that service exacts on both individuals and their loved ones.
"In the face of such loss, it is our duty as a nation to ensure the well-being of our service members and their families. I am proud to have successfully secured provisions within the 2024 national defense bill to extend support for Gold Star families who have experienced the loss of a loved one in service to our country."
"These initiatives include granting remarried Gold Star Spouses access to commissary and recreational facilities. It is imperative that no Gold Star Spouse loses these critical benefits."
"I will continue to advocate for our Gold Star Spouses, ensuring they maintain their survivor benefits which offer them vital support during their most challenging times."
"As we gather with loved ones this Memorial Day, let us not forget the true meaning of this occasion. Let us honor those who gave everything to our country by supporting those they left behind. Whether it's through volunteering, donating to veteran organizations, or advocating for policies that support military families, each of us has a role to play in ensuring that sacrifices are never forgotten."
"As a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, I remain committed to placing service members, their families, and veterans at my priorities' forefront. This Memorial Day, let's ensure that sacrifices are never forgotten and that valor continues inspiring generations."
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