senator dole fought bravely in world war ii and was severely wounded by german fire. in just a few weeks, bob will be celebrating his 94th birthday. [applause] and bob, i know i speak for millions of grateful americans when i say, thank you. thank you, bob. [applause] we thank you not only for your service but for helping us to remember your fallen comrades and the countless american patriots who gave their lives in the second world war. since the first volley of gun fire, in the revolution, braves americans in every generation
almighty and merciful god, grant to all of us grace and peace and a strong recollection of this national memorial day observance. may the memory of this sacred place among america s sons and daughters be etched in our hearts and be thankful for our blesses and sacrifices. they shall grow not old, as we be left for old, age shall not worry them or the years condemned. after the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them. amen. ladies and gentlemen, please remain in place until the president has departed and the colors are retired.
words cannot wipe away the tears or bring back the smiling faces. if americans just take the time to look into your eyes and tell you how much we thank you and how dearly we pray for you and how truly we love you, then hopefully you can find solace through your pain. and every time you see the sunrise over this blessed land, please know your brave sons and daughters pushed away the knife and delivered for us all that great and glorious dawn. thank you, god bless you, god bless our fallen heros, god bless their families, god bless our military and god bless the united states of america. [applause] thank you. [applause]
their sacrifice and service, but of the sacrifice made by the families and loved ones they left behind. special, special people. i especially want to extend our gratitude to secretary john kelly for joining us today. incredible man. [applause] i always like to call him general. he understands more than most ever could or ever will. the wounds of war. not only did secretary proudly serve in the military for more than 40 years enduring many
[applause] ladies and gentlemen, chaplain austin. let us pray. almighty god, prince of peace, you have declared there s no greater love than for those that lay down their life for their friends. today we stand among america s sons and daughters, patriots that have given their lives for our freedom. we pause today to remember them for their sacrifice and honor their memory. our friends, that we may be more aware of how blessed we are as a nation. we realize the price that is paid to have and maintain our freedom. we also pray today for the family and friends of those that