applause. >> good morning, everyone. thank you. thank you secretary for your lifetime of service to our nation and for being a tireless advocate on behalf of america's veterans. to vice president biden and dr. jill biden, secretary hagel and perez, admiral, major buchanan, most of all to our outstanding veterans service organizations, men and women in uniform, and to the proud veterans and family members joining us in this sacred place. mi michelle and i are honored to be with you today again. to the gold star families and brothers and sisters in arms who have walked the paths of these