in a place of honor. the hall of heroes. names of 3,498 american patriots are e scribed on these walls. each performed personal acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. and received the medal of honor as a consequence. it is humbling for us to be among their names. and to be with all of you. secretary mattis is soon to mark his 50th anniversary in the service of this country. during more than four decades in yaumpl, he commanded of marines from infantry rifle platoon to marine expedition their force, he led a battalion in 1991, afghanistan after the 9/11 terrorist attack went on to lead the first marine expedition their force, u.s. marine forces